CHICAGO – Respiratory Health Association is proud to present the 2026 Lung Cancer Research Award to Lillian J. Eichner, PhD. She is an Assistant Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Dr. Eichner will receive a one-time award of $75,000 to conduct research focused on the molecular mechanisms driving non-small cell lung cancer, with a specific focus on the gene LKB1 (also known as STK11).
“This project addresses an important unmet need in lung cancer treatment while exploring an innovative and under-studied approach. By looking at how the timing of treatment may impact outcomes, this research has the potential to provide important information that can help guide future studies and improve treatment options for people living with lung cancer,” said Rachael Morkunas, RHA Director of Programs and Policy.
LKB1 is one of the most frequently mutated genes in non-small cell lung cancer, inactivated in roughly 20 percent of cases. Dr. Eichner’s lab uses genetically engineered mouse models to study how this gene functions, and her team has found that transcription, the process cells use to read and act on genetic instructions, plays a much larger role in LKB1 related lung cancer than previously understood. Her ongoing work aims to identify new therapeutic vulnerabilities in LKB1 mutant tumors, and to explore whether these discoveries could also benefit patients with LKB1 wildtype tumors.
Lung cancer accounts for more deaths than any other cancer. It is more fatal than breast, prostate, and colon cancer combined. And yet, lung cancer research is underfunded compared to other cancers. RHA has been awarding lung cancer research grants to address this disparity and ensure that highly innovative ideas and programs of research, like those developed by Dr. Eichner, aren’t left on the table.
“Recently I had the chance to visit her lab in person and was impressed with the enthusiasm of Dr. Eichner and her team for their work and the potential it holds. This kind of early-stage work is critical to the development of future treatments and is the foundation of hope for millions of families impacted by lung disease,” said Rob Anderson, RHA President and CEO.
Since 1998, Respiratory Health Association annually awards early-stage research grants to promising projects covering lung diseases such as lung cancer, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Learn more about RHA’s research program and funding opportunities at RespHealth.org/Research.
About the Respiratory Health Association : RHA has been a local public health leader in Chicago since 1906. RHA works to prevent lung disease, promote clean air, and help people live better through education, research, and policy change.