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Speed of Light - The ASTRO Foundation

Speed of Light - The ASTRO Foundation

Formerly the Radiation Oncology Institute
Accelerating science and education so that patients can receive high-quality, innovative radiation treatments
that enhance their quality of life and ultimately, saves lives.

Radiation shares the essence of light: focused, intentional, and transformative. 
It reveals what is possible and illuminates a path forward for patients during their hardest moments.

Speed of Light – The ASTRO Foundation embodies that spirit 
and honors the voices of patients whose insights helped shape an identity 
rooted in clarity, purpose, and hope.

Our Impact

$12.5+ million
awarded to 130 teams of investigators
$90+ million
in follow-on funding demonstrating the impact and scalability of funded research
245
presentations and posters to disseminate findings and amplify solutions
22
new tools, programs and resources supporting patients and healthcare providers
127
peer-reviewed papers published to advance knowledge and impact
Helping millions of people treated with radiation therapy receive the highest quality care and improved outcomes.

Pillars of Speed of Light -
The ASTRO Foundation

We envision a world where every person has access to the best radiation therapy to live a longer, healthier life.

To bring this vision to reality, the Foundation will accelerate bold and innovative ideas in radiation therapy.

Browse our available resources to learn more.

Research Outcomes

Tafadzwa Chaunzwa

Sparking opportunity for an emerging leader in AI research

Tafadzwa L. Chaunzwa, MD, MHS, shares how a grant from the Foundation was a catalyst for his career as a physician scientist working to transform cancer care through AI. 

Funding Opportunities

Scientist with dropper

ASTRO Radiation Oncology Resident Fellowship

Providing radiation oncology residents (PGY-3 or later) with research funding and a one-year part-time remote assignment with AstraZeneca colleagues.

Applications are due on Monday, July 27, 2026

Publication Excellence Awards

Recognizing early career investigators who have recently published results of exceptional research in radiation medicine.

Nominations due July 7, 2026

Doctors holding award

News and Updates

More News and Updates

Stay connected to the latest news, breakthroughs, events, and stories of impact powered by Speed of Light – The ASTRO Foundation.

Patient Resources

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251 18th Street South, 8th Floor
Arlington, VA 22202