[Closes 22 June 2016] Global Challenges Research Fund calls for proposals: £600,000 available

The first three calls for proposals to the Global Challenges Research Fund are now open. Deadline for outline applications: 4pm, 22 June 2016.

The first three calls for proposals to the Global Challenges Research Fund are now open, information here >>.

Attached document with more details: here >>

The Fund, involving BBSRC, MRC, AHRC, ESRC and NERC, was created to ensure that UK research takes a leading role in addressing the problems faced by developing countries. Foundation Awards of up to £600,000 are available for multidisciplinary research in three areas:

• Global Agriculture & Food Systems Research
• Global Infections
• Non-communicable Diseases

Deadline for outline applications: 4pm, 22 June 2016

Awards would start on 1 April 2017, for applications for proposals of ~24 months' duration.

All research funded through these awards will be part of the UK's Official Development Assistance (ODA).  Applications must be primarily relevant to near-term or long-term benefits to the health or prosperity of Low or Middle Income Countries. 

What we can do to help

Please let Jacqueline Garget – Coordinator of the Cambridge Global Food Security SRI -  know of any research ideas you're thinking of submitting that fall within the remit of the Initiative (www.globalfood.cam.ac.uk)

Together, Cambridge Global Food Security and CambPlants coordinate a large network and can help you find the collaborators you need across the University for a multi-disciplinary proposal that meets the funding criteria.

We can also let you know of other similar proposals in preparation – you may want to join forces with others, or work to differentiate your bids.

Future Sandpit Events

In anticipation of further funding calls in this area with a short turnaround (GCRF, Newton Fund, etc), we are planning a series of Sandpit events on themes within Global Food Security to make sure Cambridge is prepared, and in the best possible position to apply.

These events will support Cambridge academics in generating and developing new ideas, finding collaborators (both within Cambridge and from external organisations), and submitting bids. 

Please let us know if you'd like to be involved – and also contact Jacqueline Garget (Jg533@cam.ac.uk ) with any specific ideas/ suggestions.