The Department of Defense's FY25 Melanoma Academy Leadership Award funding opportunity aims to secure a Director and Deputy Director for the Melanoma Research Program’s virtual academy. This initiative seeks to cultivate high-performing melanoma researchers through mentorship and collaboration. The award, with an estimated budget of $2.1 million, will support one application with a combined direct cost cap of $1.3 million over a maximum of four years. Eligible applicants include established melanoma researchers from various organizations, including domestic and foreign entities. This document outlines the funding mechanism, application process, eligibility criteria, evaluation plans, and submission details designed for a two-step application process—starting with a pre-application and followed by a full application submission. Key focus areas include melanoma prevention, research on rare melanomas, and survivorship, emphasizing studies that aim to enhance patient outcomes and reduce melanoma burdens. The Melanoma Academy aims to foster collaboration among early-career investigators and experienced mentors, contributing to advances in melanoma research relevant to military health. Successful applicants are expected to engage actively in developing the academy's vision and managing its activities, with oversight from the Consumer Consultant Panel and an Advisory Board.