Review of research grant applications is conducted by a 26-member Scientific Review Panel composed of eminent cancer researchers drawn from major research institutions throughout the United States and Canada. In order to avoid any potential conflicts of interest, Israeli scientists are not involved with the selection process.

The membership of the ICRF Scientific Review Panel is drawn from some of the most highly regarded cancer research institutions in North America including; MD Anderson, Mayo Clinic, Memorial Sloan Kettering, Cleveland Clinic, National Cancer Institute, Univ. of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Cornell Comprehensive Cancer Center, Norris Cotton Cancer Center at Dartmouth, Duke University, SUNY, Case Western, Northwestern University, McGill University and the Universities of California, Pittsburgh, Toronto and Pennsylvania.

The Scientific Review Panel meets annually in New York to rate each proposal based on merit, potential outcomes, the principal investigator and other criteria. Applicants must supply a description of the proposed research project, curriculum vitae and publication list, a listing of scientific achievements, and a depiction of their laboratory. The review process is modeled after that of the National Institutes of Health; strict guidelines are followed to ensure fairness and impartiality. Grant awards are based on the scientific merit of the project, demonstrated ability