PICI Membership: Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to become a PICI Member Researcher?
Members in the PICI Network are passionate about collaboration, innovation and translating research discoveries into clinical applications. Open to researchers at various career stages– from early-career scientists to established investigators–Members are committed to these core principles, including excellence in cancer immunotherapy research. Some PICI Network Sites may have additional specific requirements for Membership. If you are interested in becoming a PICI Member, please discuss your interest with your institution’s PICI Center Director.

What are the benefits of joining the PICI Network?
PICI Membership offers exclusive access to PICI funding opportunities for groundbreaking immunotherapy research, early insight into emerging research from across the PICI Network, premier networking events including PICI’s bi-annual Scientific Retreats, the opportunity to engage with key leaders in the field of cancer immunotherapy, login access to the PICI Member Center for sharing data and pre-publication manuscripts, comprehensive IP and patent support, the prestigious title of PICI Member Researcher and opportunities to nominate members of your lab for PICI funding programs such as the Early Career Researcher Awards and DEIB Grants.

What are the disclosures required of PICI Member Researchers?
PICI Member Researchers are expected to complete a Member Researcher participation agreement, which includes disclosure of information related to your external funding sources and third-party encumbrances. During your membership tenure, and in association with project funding, PICI will also collect updated and expanded information related to new external funding sources, third-party encumbrances and project-related/lab related personnel. Member Researchers also disclose all publications and inventions related to immuno-oncology to PICI in collaboration with your local tech transfer office.

How does PICI support research funding at my institution?
PICI provides funding opportunities through project proposals submitted to your institution’s PICI Center Directors, Early Career Researcher Awards and DEIB Grants. Some PICI Network Sites may have specific processes associated with funding opportunities. Please contact your institution’s PICI Administrative Director for specifics at your Site.

How does PICI support early-career researchers?
PICI offers several funding opportunities specifically designed to support early career researchers, including the Early Career Researcher Awards (Parker Scholars, Parker Bridge Fellows and Parker Senior Fellows); the PICI RISE Scholar and a stated broader focus on next-generation support in partnership with our Center Directors. These funding opportunities provide financial support, mentorship and access to cutting-edge resources to nurture the next generation of cancer immunotherapy leaders. Some PICI Network Sites may have additional opportunities specific to their Members. Please contact your institution’s PICI Administrative Director for specifics at your Site.

How does PICI support intellectual property (IP) development and patent processes?
PICI covers patent costs for accepted IP from Member Researchers’ portfolios with no obligation to share revenue, allowing them to focus on innovation. PICI also provides comprehensive support for IP development, including guidance on patent strategy, preparation and prosecution.

What are the next steps to become a PICI Member Researcher?
The process typically begins with an initial consultation with your institution’s PICI Center Directors and tech transfer office, followed by completion of a member researcher Participation Agreement. Please contact your institution’s PICI Administrative Director or PICI tech transfer contact for specifics around next steps at your Site.

How can I learn more about PICI?
You can learn more about PICI’s mission and work by visiting ParkerICI.org, where you can sign up for PICI’s email list, or by following us on LinkedIn and X.