The Australian Research Council (ARC) administers the National Competitive Grants Programme, a significant component of Australia's investment in research and development.

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Australian Laureate Fellowships

This scheme reflects the Australian Research Council's commitment to support research excellence by attracting world-class researchers and research leaders to key positions, and creating new rewards and incentives for the application of their talents in Australia.

Open to applications from outstanding researchers of international repute, the Australian Laureate Fellowships scheme particularly encourages proposals involving Australian and non-Australian researchers currently working overseas by providing eligible Australian Laureate Fellows with project funding in addition to a salary supplement and salary-related (on-cost) support.

 

Key Dates

Applications
  • Proposals Open in RMS: 1 September 2021
  • UWA Internal Submission Deadline: 13 October 2021
  • Proposals Close: 27 October 2021
Request Not to Assess
  • UWA Internal Deadline: 6 October 2021
  • Request Not to Assess Close: 13 October 2021

Key Information

Applicants may, if they have reason, nominate any person or persons whom they do not wish to assess their application, using the Request Not to Assess form.

The request not to assess form must be emailed to [email protected], and not submitted direct to the ARC.

Submission Process

Applications must be completed via the ARC’s Research Management System.

All applications must be submitted by the internal closing date as follows:
  1. Create application on RMS. Ensure all CIs update their RMS profile.
  2. Within RMS generate an application PDF.
  3. Create an External Grants application record on ROAP.
    • On the General Tab, indicate that you are recording an application
    • On the Application Submission Details tab, indicate that you wish to submit for internal review
    • In the Attachments section, upload the RMS generated applicant PDF, along with any associated documents and complete the mandatory questions on the form
  4. The UWA Chief investigator listed then submits the form in ROAP. Submitting the form for internal review does not generate a Head of School approval request.
    • The application may continue to be refined in RMS during this period. Feedback will be provided in time for you to incorporate into the final submission. Feedback will be based on the version of the application that was submitted for internal review.
  5. Following Research Grants review, feedback will be provided and the form de-submitted in ROAP
  6. Final submission must occur no later than two working days prior to the ARC closing date.
    • The ROAP form will need to be updated, and all mandatory questions completed and a updated copy of the application PDF generated from RMS attached.
    • The UWA Chief investigator listed then re-submits the form, this time the Form will be automatically routed to the nominated Head of School for approval.
    • Finalise the application and submit via RMS, ensuring the application has the status of Submitted to Research Office.
  7. Research Grants will then submit the application to the ARC. Once that has occurred the status of the application on RMS will change to Submitted to ARC.
Note:
  1. Research Grants may only be able to provide feedback to applicants who internally submit their applications on time.
  2. Please note that some schools may have processes and deadlines in place for budget review and ROAP signoff.
  3. Only submit via ROAP. Do not submit via email. Do not submit any hard copy documents.
  4. Research Grants will only submit applications to ARC after the application has been lodged, and endorsed by the Head of School, via ROAP

Key Documentation

Australian Laureate Fellowships point of contact

The Discovery Projects scheme provides funding to Eligible Organisations to support research programs. Applications for funding under the Discovery Projects scheme are accepted once a year.

 

Key Dates

Applications
  • Proposals Open in RMS: 11 November 2020
  • UWA Internal Submission Deadline: 3 February 2021
  • Applications Close: 24 February 2021
Request not to assess
  • UWA internal closing date: 3 February 2021
  • ARC closing date: 10 February 2021

While there is no requirement to nominate assessors, applicants may name a person whom they do not wish to assess the application. A Request not to assess form is available from the ARC for this purpose. The form must not accompany the application and must be submitted separately to [email protected] by the date provided above.

Key Information

Applicant Roles and Eligibility
  • Chief Investigator (CI)
  • Partner Investigator (PI)

Each application must have at least one Chief Investigator.

Limit on number of applications
  • As a general requirement, an applicant may apply for Discovery Projects only to the extent that, if successful, they would not exceed the maximum number of grants they may hold in 2020 (i.e. two Discovery Projects). Having said that, applicants must read carefully the restrictions highlighted at Clause 5 of the Grant Guidelines.
  • Generally if an applicant holds an ARC fellowship or award receiving funding in 2020 only one Discovery Project can be requested and held.
  • Failure to observe these limits may result in the automatic exclusion of all applications involving that researcher as Chief Investigator.
  • It is important for all applicants to read the Grant Guidelines carefully to determine the limit on the number of grants that may be held as different limits may apply.

Funding of Medical and Dental Research

The ARC does not fund research and/or training which, in its opinion, has a significant focus on near-term clinical medical (including dental) outcomes. The ARC has provided a definition of this to assist prospective applicants in determining whether their application is eligible for ARC funding.


Project Costs (Budget)

Details of how to enter the budget are contained in the ARC’s Instructions to Applicants. Please ensure the Instructions are followed carefully. The budget is a very important part of the application and must be fully justified.

All personnel committing time to the project must show their commitment by entering a portion of their salary and on-costs as an in-kind contribution under the appropriate column. Please note that the time commitment for ARC, NHMRC and other Commonwealth funded Fellows on a Discovery Project to commence in 2020 should not be shown as a UWA contribution.

A Project Costing Template has been created to calculate these costs.

Please note the following when requesting specific budget items:

  • PhD Stipend (ARC rate): $27,609. Teaching Relief: Up to $50,000 per year, per CI.

General handy hints relating to project costs for UWA employees are also available on the Research Grants and Contracts Office. 


Justification of project costs (Budget)
Justification of funding requested from the ARC

It’s important to ensure that every item listed in the Budget is justified. This isn’t just a matter of listing them again: you need to justify why you need them – why is it integral to the project?

Details of non-ARC contributions

In addition to the direct costs entered into the budget table, The University of Western Australia would also be providing the indirect costs. Indirect costs include the provision of computers, office and laboratory space, electricity, the use of facilities and so on. These aren’t included in the budget table but should be included in the Justification.

The following sentence should be included in the Justification:"In addition to the direct costs listed in the budget table, The University of Western Australia will provide the indirect costs associated with the project."

If there are Chief Investigators from other eligible organisations and Partner Investigators from other organisations, it is likely that their organisations would also be providing indirect costs, so this could also be included in the Details of non-ARC Contributions.

Submission Process

Applications must be completed via the ARC’s Research Management System.

All applications must be submitted by the internal closing date as follows:
  1. Create application on RMS. Ensure all CIs update their RMS profile.
  2. Within RMS generate an application PDF.
  3. Create an External Grants application record on ROAP.
    • On the General Tab, indicate that you are recording an application
    • On the Application Submission Details tab, indicate that you wish to submit for internal review
    • In the Attachments section, upload the RMS generated applicant PDF, along with any associated documents and complete the mandatory questions on the form
  4. The UWA Chief investigator listed then submits the form in ROAP. Submitting the form for internal review does not generate a Head of School approval request.
    • The application may continue to be refined in RMS during this period. Feedback will be provided in time for you to incorporate into the final submission. Feedback will be based on the version of the application that was submitted for internal review.
  5. Following Research Grants review, feedback will be provided and the form de-submitted in ROAP
  6. Final submission must occur no later than two working days prior to the ARC closing date.
    • The ROAP form will need to be updated, and all mandatory questions completed and a updated copy of the application PDF generated from RMS attached.
    • The UWA Chief investigator listed then re-submits the form, this time the Form will be automatically routed to the nominated Head of School for approval.
    • Finalise the application and submit via RMS, ensuring the application has the status of Submitted to Research Office.
  7. Research Grants will then submit the application to the ARC. Once that has occurred the status of the application on RMS will change to Submitted to ARC.
Note:
  1. Research Grants may only be able to provide feedback to applicants who internally submit their applications on time.
  2. Please note that some schools may have processes and deadlines in place for budget review and ROAP signoff.
  3. Only submit via ROAP. Do not submit via email. Do not submit any hard copy documents.
  4. Research Grants will only submit applications to ARC after the application has been lodged, and endorsed by the Head of School, via ROAP

Key Documentation

Please read the ARC Grant Guidelines and instructions carefully and take note of the changes from last year. In particular, please note the limits on the number of proposals, funded projects and cross-scheme eligibility.

Discovery Projects point of contact

This scheme provides funding for Eligible Organisations to support research programs led by an Indigenous Australian researcher, and build research capacity for higher degree research and early-career researchers.

The Discovery Indigenous scheme for funding in 2020 includes the Discovery Australian Aboriginal & Torres Straight Islanders Award (DAATSIAs). This is available to Chief Investigators who are Indigenous Australian researchers.

To be eligible to receive Fellowship Gap Central funding your application must be submitted to the Research Grants and Contracts Office by the internal closing date. Full details of the Fellowship Gap Central scheme can be found here

 

Key Dates

  • Proposals open: 25 November 2020
  • Internal closing date: 24 February 2021
  • Request Not to Assess internal close: 24 February 2021
  • Request Not to Assess close: 3 March 2021
  • Proposals close: 17 March 2021

 

Key Information

The objectives of the scheme are to:

  1. develop the research expertise of Aboriginal & Torres Straight Islanders researchers;
  2. support excellent research and research training by Aboriginal & Torres Straight Islander individuals and teams;
  3. support and retain established Indigenous Australian researchers in Australian higher education institutions; and
  4. expand Australia’s knowledge base and research capability.

To be eligible to receive Fellowship Gap Central funding (for DAATSIA applicants) your application must be submitted to the Research Grants and Contracts Office by the internal closing date. Full details of the Fellowship Gap Central scheme can be found here.

Submission Process

Applications must be completed via the ARC’s Research Management System.

All applications must be submitted by the internal closing date as follows:
  1. Create application on RMS. Ensure all CIs update their RMS profile.
  2. Within RMS generate an application PDF.
  3. Create an External Grants application record on ROAP.
    • On the General Tab, indicate that you are recording an application
    • On the Application Submission Details tab, indicate that you wish to submit for internal review
    • In the Attachments section, upload the RMS generated applicant PDF, along with any associated documents and complete the mandatory questions on the form
  4. The UWA Chief investigator listed then submits the form in ROAP. Submitting the form for internal review does not generate a Head of School approval request.
    • The application may continue to be refined in RMS during this period. Feedback will be provided in time for you to incorporate into the final submission. Feedback will be based on the version of the application that was submitted for internal review.
  5. Following Research Grants review, feedback will be provided and the form de-submitted in ROAP
  6. Final submission must occur no later than two working days prior to the ARC closing date.
    • The ROAP form will need to be updated, and all mandatory questions completed and a updated copy of the application PDF generated from RMS attached.
    • The UWA Chief investigator listed then re-submits the form, this time the Form will be automatically routed to the nominated Head of School for approval.
    • Finalise the application and submit via RMS, ensuring the application has the status of Submitted to Research Office.
  7. Research Grants will then submit the application to the ARC. Once that has occurred the status of the application on RMS will change to Submitted to ARC.
Note:
  1. Research Grants may only be able to provide feedback to applicants who internally submit their applications on time.
  2. Please note that some schools may have processes and deadlines in place for budget review and ROAP signoff.
  3. Only submit via ROAP. Do not submit via email. Do not submit any hard copy documents.
  4. Research Grants will only submit applications to ARC after the application has been lodged, and endorsed by the Head of School, via ROAP

Key Documentation

Discovery Indigenous point of contact

The Discovery Early Career Researcher Award (DECRA) scheme is a separate element of the Discovery Programme. The DECRA scheme will provide more focused support for researchers and create more opportunities for early-career researchers in both teaching and research, and research-only positions.

To be eligible to receive Fellowship Gap Central funding your application must be submitted to the Research Grants and Contracts Office by the internal closing date. Full details of the Fellowship Gap Central scheme can be found here

 

Key Dates

Applications
  • Proposals open in RMS: 8 September 2021
  • UWA internal deadline: 27 October 2021
  • Proposals close: 17 November 2021
Request Not to Assess
  • UWA internal deadline: 27 October 2021
  • External deadline: 3 November 2021

Key Information

The objectives of the DECRA scheme are to:

  • support excellent basic and applied research by early career researchers
  • advance promising early career researchers and promote enhanced opportunities for diverse career pathways
  • enable research and research training in high quality and supportive environments
  • expand Australia’s knowledge base and research capability
  • enhance the scale and focus of research in the Science and Research Priorities

If you wish to submit a DECRA application, please make sure you read the Grant Guidelines and discuss your application with the relevant Faculty Research Development Adviser.

To be eligible to receive Fellowship Gap Central funding your application must be submitted to the Research Grants and Contracts Office by the internal closing date. Full details of the Fellowship Gap Central scheme can be found here.

Researchers may be eligible to apply if they have been awarded a PhD within five years, or longer if combined with periods of significant career interruption (see Grant Guidelines and FAQs for detailed information).

It is anticipated that up to 200 three-year Discovery Early Career Researcher Awards, including up to $40 000 per annum in project funds, may be awarded each year.


Strategic Statement

As part of the application, candidates must write a strategic statement which outlines:

  • indicates that this area is a core or emerging research strength and describes the level of resources to be provided to support the successful DECRA candidate (for example, project costs, or salary top-up); and
  • details opportunities for the DECRA Candidate to demonstrate the level of independence required to be competitive for research and/or research and teaching pathways at the Administering Organisation during and after the Project

The statement must be approved and signed by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research). Applicants should consider UWA's existing and emerging research priority areas and contact the relevant Research Development Adviser for information regarding strategic alignment with UWA's priority areas. The strategic statement is a vital part of the application as it contributes to the selection criteria.

Please contact your Faculty Development Adviser for information on preparing the statement. Your statement will be reviewed and returned to you for uploading into your application on RMS. Your Research Development Adviser will arrange for the final version of the statement to be signed by the DVC(R).


Request for non-assessors

While there is no requirement to nominate assessors, applicants may name a person whom they do not wish to assess the application. A Request not to assess form is available from the ARC for this purpose. The form must not accompany the application and must be submitted separately to [email protected] by date provided above


Budget

Please take particular notice of the budget items supported and not supported by the ARC for this scheme. The ARC Funding Rules and the Instructions to Applicants should be followed carefully when preparing budget details.

The ARC provides a contribution of $106,194 per annum for salary and on-costs over a period of three years. This amount does not cover the minimum commencing salary and on-costs for someone with a PhD at UWA. Therefore, UWA will be required to provide a contribution to the salary and on-costs for the DECRA. The Project Costing Template should be used to calculate the UWA contribution along with any other salaries.

General handy hints relating to project costs for UWA employees are also available on the Research Grants and Contracts Office website.

The following sentence should be included in the Budget Justification:

“In addition to the direct costs listed in the budget table, and any salary shortfall, The University of Western Australia will also provide the indirect costs associated with the project."

1If the applicant is affiliated with an Independent Medical Research Institute (IMRI), or the research is to be conducted at an IMRI, please check with the relevant institute for the level of support. 

Submission Process

Applications must be completed via the ARC’s Research Management System.

All applications must be submitted by the internal closing date as follows:
  1. Create application on RMS. Ensure all CIs update their RMS profile.
  2. Within RMS generate an application PDF.
  3. Create an External Grants application record on ROAP.
    • On the General Tab, indicate that you are recording an application
    • On the Application Submission Details tab, indicate that you wish to submit for internal review
    • In the Attachments section, upload the RMS generated applicant PDF, along with any associated documents and complete the mandatory questions on the form
  4. The UWA Chief investigator listed then submits the form in ROAP. Submitting the form for internal review does not generate a Head of School approval request.
    • The application may continue to be refined in RMS during this period. Feedback will be provided in time for you to incorporate into the final submission. Feedback will be based on the version of the application that was submitted for internal review.
  5. Following Research Grants review, feedback will be provided and the form de-submitted in ROAP
  6. Final submission must occur no later than two working days prior to the ARC closing date.
    • The ROAP form will need to be updated, and all mandatory questions completed and a updated copy of the application PDF generated from RMS attached.
    • The UWA Chief investigator listed then re-submits the form, this time the Form will be automatically routed to the nominated Head of School for approval.
    • Finalise the application and submit via RMS, ensuring the application has the status of Submitted to Research Office.
  7. Research Grants will then submit the application to the ARC. Once that has occurred the status of the application on RMS will change to Submitted to ARC.
Note:
  1. Research Grants may only be able to provide feedback to applicants who internally submit their applications on time.
  2. Please note that some schools may have processes and deadlines in place for budget review and ROAP signoff.
  3. Only submit via ROAP. Do not submit via email. Do not submit any hard copy documents.
  4. Research Grants will only submit applications to ARC after the application has been lodged, and endorsed by the Head of School, via ROAP

Key Documentation

Discovery Early Careers Researcher Awards point of contact

Centres of Excellence

ARC Centres of Excellence maintain and develop Australia’s international standing in the Government’s designated research priority areas.

ARC Centres of Excellence involve significant collaboration which allows the complementary research resources of universities, publicly funded research organisations, other research bodies, governments and businesses to be concentrated to support outstanding research.

 

Key Dates


  • Expression of Interest Open: 1 June 2021
  • Expression of Interest UWA Close: 7 July 2021
  • Expression of Interest ARC Close: 21 July 2021
  • Request Not to Assess UWA Close: 30 June 2021
  • EOI Rejoinder period: 23 September 2021 to 7 October 2021
  • Full Applications Open: 15 December 2021
  • Applications UWA Close: March 2022
  • Applications ARC Close: 23 March 2022
  • Rejoinder period: 25 May 2022 to 9 June 2022
  • Anticipated announcement: Fourth Quarter 2022

Key Information

The objectives for the ARC Centres of Excellence are to:

  • undertake highly innovative and potentially transformational research that aims to achieve international standing in the fields of research envisaged and leads to a significant advancement of capabilities and knowledge
  • link existing Australian research strengths and build critical mass with new capacity for interdisciplinary, collaborative approaches to address the most challenging and significant research problems
  • develop relationships and build new networks with major national and international centres and research programs to help strengthen research, achieve global competitiveness and gain recognition for Australian research
  • build Australia’s human capacity in a range of research areas by attracting and retaining, from within Australia and abroad, researchers of high international standing as well as the most promising research students
  • provide high-quality postgraduate and postdoctoral training environments for the next generation of researchers
  • offer Australian researchers opportunities to work on large-scale problems over long periods of time
  • establish Centres that have an impact on the wider community through interaction with higher education institutes, governments, industry and the private and non-profit sector.

In most cases, a successful Centre should expect to receive ARC funding of approximately $1m-$5m per year, over 7 years.

Submission Process

Applications must be completed via the ARC’s Research Management System.

All applications must be submitted by the internal closing date as follows:
  1. Create application on RMS. Ensure all CIs update their RMS profile.
  2. Within RMS generate an application PDF.
  3. Create an External Grants application record on ROAP.
    • On the General Tab, indicate that you are recording an application
    • On the Application Submission Details tab, indicate that you wish to submit for internal review
    • In the Attachments section, upload the RMS generated applicant PDF, along with any associated documents and complete the mandatory questions on the form
  4. The UWA Chief investigator listed then submits the form in ROAP. Submitting the form for internal review does not generate a Head of School approval request.
    • The application may continue to be refined in RMS during this period. Feedback will be provided in time for you to incorporate into the final submission. Feedback will be based on the version of the application that was submitted for internal review.
  5. Following Research Grants review, feedback will be provided and the form de-submitted in ROAP
  6. Final submission must occur no later than two working days prior to the ARC closing date.
    • The ROAP form will need to be updated, and all mandatory questions completed and a updated copy of the application PDF generated from RMS attached.
    • The UWA Chief investigator listed then re-submits the form, this time the Form will be automatically routed to the nominated Head of School for approval.
    • Finalise the application and submit via RMS, ensuring the application has the status of Submitted to Research Office.
  7. Research Grants will then submit the application to the ARC. Once that has occurred the status of the application on RMS will change to Submitted to ARC.
Note:
  1. Research Grants may only be able to provide feedback to applicants who internally submit their applications on time.
  2. Please note that some schools may have processes and deadlines in place for budget review and ROAP signoff.
  3. Only submit via ROAP. Do not submit via email. Do not submit any hard copy documents.
  4. Research Grants will only submit applications to ARC after the application has been lodged, and endorsed by the Head of School, via ROAP

Key Documentation

Centres of Excellence point of contact

Future Fellowships

The University of Western Australia welcomes applicants for Australian Research Council Future Fellowships to join our word-class research teams. These guidelines are prepared to assist candidates submitting applications for Future Fellowships through UWA.

Your Research Development Adviser, Associate Dean Research and Head of School must be consulted prior to submitting an application.

To be eligible to receive Fellowship Gap Central funding your application must be submitted to the Research Grants and Contracts Office by the internal closing date. Full details of the Fellowship Gap Central scheme can be found here.

These guidelines should be read in conjunction with the ARC Grant Guidelines, and Instructions to Applicants before completing an application. The following is provided as a guide.

It's important to note the following:

  • Applicants cannot submit more than 3 Future Fellowship proposals (maximum of 1 application per round)
  • Future Fellows cannot apply for a subsequent Future Fellowship
  • There are limits, outlined in the Grant Guidelines, on applying for and holding a Future Fellowship in addition to other ARC schemes. In particular, researchers cannot apply for or hold more than one Discovery Project and a Future Fellowship.
 

Key Dates

Applications
  • Proposals Open in RMS: 13 October 2021
  • UWA Internal Submission Deadline: 17 November 2021
  • Applications Close: 8 December 2021

Request Not to Assess
  • UWA Internal Deadline: 17 November 2021
  • ARC Request Not to Assess Close: 24 November 2021

Key Information

Eligibility

A PhD (or equivalent research qualification) must have been awarded on or between 1 March 2004 and 1 March 2014. The ARC will consider career interruptions as permitted under clause B3.13 of the Grant Guidelines


Statement by the Administering Organisation Outlining Strategic Alignment

As part of the application, a statement must be prepared outlining the area of core or emerging areas of research strength and describes the level of resources to support the candidate. The University of Western Australia will provide a $20k start up grant for successful fellows to support the project costs and this may be written into the application as a UWA cash contribution1. The statement must be signed by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research). Details of the content to be included in the Statement are available under section B6.1 of the Grant Guidelines.

Applicants will need to contact their Research Development Adviser for information on preparing the statement. Once the statement has been finalised the Research Development Adviser will arrange for it to be signed and returned to applicants in time for uploading into the application on RMS. The statement is a vital part of the application as it represents 10% of the selection criteria.

1If the applicant is affiliated with an Independent Medical Research Institute (IMRI), or the research is to be conducted at an IMRI, please check with the relevant institute for the level of support. 


Request for non-assessors

Applicants may, if they have reason, nominate any person or persons whom they do not wish to assess their application, using the Request not to Assess form.

The request not to assess form must be emailed to [email protected], and not submitted direct to the ARC.

Submission Process

Applications must be completed via the ARC’s Research Management System.

All applications must be submitted by the internal closing date as follows:
  1. Create application on RMS. Ensure all CIs update their RMS profile.
  2. Within RMS generate an application PDF.
  3. Create an External Grants application record on ROAP.
    • On the General Tab, indicate that you are recording an application
    • On the Application Submission Details tab, indicate that you wish to submit for internal review
    • In the Attachments section, upload the RMS generated applicant PDF, along with any associated documents and complete the mandatory questions on the form
  4. The UWA Chief investigator listed then submits the form in ROAP. Submitting the form for internal review does not generate a Head of School approval request.
    • The application may continue to be refined in RMS during this period. Feedback will be provided in time for you to incorporate into the final submission. Feedback will be based on the version of the application that was submitted for internal review.
  5. Following Research Grants review, feedback will be provided and the form de-submitted in ROAP
  6. Final submission must occur no later than two working days prior to the ARC closing date.
    • The ROAP form will need to be updated, and all mandatory questions completed and a updated copy of the application PDF generated from RMS attached.
    • The UWA Chief investigator listed then re-submits the form, this time the Form will be automatically routed to the nominated Head of School for approval.
    • Finalise the application and submit via RMS, ensuring the application has the status of Submitted to Research Office.
  7. Research Grants will then submit the application to the ARC. Once that has occurred the status of the application on RMS will change to Submitted to ARC.
Note:
  1. Research Grants may only be able to provide feedback to applicants who internally submit their applications on time.
  2. Please note that some schools may have processes and deadlines in place for budget review and ROAP signoff.
  3. Only submit via ROAP. Do not submit via email. Do not submit any hard copy documents.
  4. Research Grants will only submit applications to ARC after the application has been lodged, and endorsed by the Head of School, via ROAP

Key Documentation

Future Fellowships point of contact

The Australian Research Council's (ARC) Linkage infrastructure equipment and facilities (LIEF) scheme is part of the National Competitive Grants Program (NCGP).

Objectives

The objectives of the LIEF scheme are to:

  • encourage universities to develop collaborative arrangements with other universities and/or Partner Organisations to develop and support research infrastructure;
  • support large-scale national or international cooperative initiatives allowing expensive research infrastructure to be shared and/or accessed
  • support areas of existing and/or emerging research strength; and
  • support and develop research infrastructure for the broader research community

The minimum level of funding provided by the ARC is $150,000 per year and the maximum level of funding is 75% of the total direct cost of the eligible budget items. All LIEF proposals must have a duration of one year. A Project may be applied for up to five years only for:

  1. construction of research infrastructure
  2. subscription or coordinated access to international facilities and major national facilities

Generally, applications should involve two or more eligible higher education institutions and individual researchers may only submit and/or be funded concurrently for a maximum of two LIEF Active Projects. Please note that "Active Project" means a Project that is receiving funding according to the terms of the original Funding Agreement, or has any carryover funds approved by the ARC, or an approved variation to the Project's end date. A proposal must nominate at least one Chief Investigator (CI) and may nominate no more than a total of 15 CIs and Partner Investigators (PIs). No more than five CIs from each Eligible Organisation or five PIs from each Partner Organisation may be nominated on a proposal. The first named CI will be the Project Leader and must have a demonstrated capacity to manage the project.

 

Key Dates

Following discussion with the other Western Australian universities, the following indicative timeline for 2021/22 has been established for proposals involving UWA (including proposals that UWA is a partner on and are led by another university in WA or from outside of WA).


8 November 2021
  1. Download and complete the Expression of Interest form >>
  2. Email the Expression of Interest form to [email protected]

November 2021- January 2022

    • Review of EOIs by key UWA stakeholders.


    December 2021
    • Meeting of the Deputy Vice-Chancellors (Research) of the WA universities (or their nominees) to discuss the Expressions of Interest from all WA universities and to provide feedback to applicants and to agree any potential collaborative arrangements and likely co-investment.

    30 March 2022
    • Applications open on RMS.

    18 May 2022
    • Internal review of grant applications: please request an internal review no later than 3 weeks before the close date. Please email [email protected]

    1 June 2022
    • Applications close with ARC. Please complete applications in RMS 2 days before close date.

    Key Information

    Budget

    The LIEF scheme will fund up to a maximum of 75% of the direct cost of purchasing the equipment or creating the facility (net of GST). The remaining 25% should be obtained from the collaborating institutions, and from other sources where possible.

    A maximum of $350,000 will be provided from Research Priority Funds for UWA led bids (where the equipment is to be housed at UWA). This will support equipment purchases in the optimal range of ARC funding ($500-$600 k). If the value of equipment is greater than this then applicants will need to seek more funding from partners and/or industry or from the School to meet the required co-investment.

    A maximum of $100,000 will be provided from Research Priority Funds for bids led by other institutions (where the equipment will not be housed at UWA), with most bids expected to receive in the vicinity of $25,000-$50,000. However, RPF support will only be provided if it can be clearly shown that a wide range of UWA users will have access to the facility. This doesn’t preclude local areas providing the cash co-investment to partner bids.

    Submission Process

    Applications must be completed via the ARC’s Research Management System.

    All applications must be submitted by the internal closing date as follows:
    1. Create application on RMS. Ensure all CIs update their RMS profile.
    2. Within RMS generate an application PDF.
    3. Create an External Grants application record on ROAP.
      • On the General Tab, indicate that you are recording an application
      • On the Application Submission Details tab, indicate that you wish to submit for internal review
      • In the Attachments section, upload the RMS generated applicant PDF, along with any associated documents and complete the mandatory questions on the form
    4. The UWA Chief investigator listed then submits the form in ROAP. Submitting the form for internal review does not generate a Head of School approval request.
      • The application may continue to be refined in RMS during this period. Feedback will be provided in time for you to incorporate into the final submission. Feedback will be based on the version of the application that was submitted for internal review.
    5. Following Research Grants review, feedback will be provided and the form de-submitted in ROAP
    6. Final submission must occur no later than two working days prior to the ARC closing date.
      • The ROAP form will need to be updated, and all mandatory questions completed and a updated copy of the application PDF generated from RMS attached.
      • The UWA Chief investigator listed then re-submits the form, this time the Form will be automatically routed to the nominated Head of School for approval.
      • Finalise the application and submit via RMS, ensuring the application has the status of Submitted to Research Office.
    7. Research Grants will then submit the application to the ARC. Once that has occurred the status of the application on RMS will change to Submitted to ARC.
    Note:
    1. Research Grants may only be able to provide feedback to applicants who internally submit their applications on time.
    2. Please note that some schools may have processes and deadlines in place for budget review and ROAP signoff.
    3. Only submit via ROAP. Do not submit via email. Do not submit any hard copy documents.
    4. Research Grants will only submit applications to ARC after the application has been lodged, and endorsed by the Head of School, via ROAP

    Key Documents

    Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment & Facilities point of contact

    The Linkage Projects scheme supports collaborative research and development projects between higher education organisations and other organisations, including within industry, to enable the application of advanced knowledge to problems.

     

    Key Dates

    While applications may be submitted at any time, prior to the final ARC closing date of 16 December 2021, there will be three annual assessment rounds in 2021.

    Round 1

    • Internal: 23 March 2021
    • External: 13 April 2021

    Round 2

    • Internal: 26 July 2021
    • External: 16 August 2021

    Round 3

    • Internal: 25 November 2021
    • External: 16 December 2021


    Key Information

    Partner Organisations

    As with all aspects of the application, the Partner Organisation, including the cash and in-kind contribution, must comply with the relevant requirements as set out in the Funding Rules and the Instructions to Applicants. Note in particular the requirement for the Partner Organisation(s) letter(s) of eligibility and support to:

    • provide a brief profile of the organisation and details of the Cash and In-kind Contributions;
    • certify that no part of its Cash Contribution is drawn from funds previously appropriated or awarded from Commonwealth or Australian State or Territory sources for the purposes of research;
    • demonstrate the source of its Cash Contribution;
    • certify that it will meet the requirements outlined in a standard Funding Agreement, including the requirement to enter into arrangements regarding intellectual property; and most importantly of all
    • provide details regarding how the project aligns with the Partner Organisation’s objectives, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to the project.

    Full details of the requirements for the Partner Organisation letters can be found in the Instructions to Applicants (page 46).


    Funding Agreement

    All applicants must familiarise themselves with the Funding Agreement and ensure that their Partner Organisations are aware of the Funding Agreement, including, in particular, the requirements for the Partner Organisation(s) to enter an agreement with the University before the project starts.


    Budgets

    The UWA Internal Guidelines should be consulted when preparing applications, especially when developing budgets. The Internal Guidelines include links to professional and academic salary scales and Common Classification Levels for Research Grant Funded Staff.


    Budgets other personnel

    All other positions to be funded by the ARC must be entered into the budget on RMS. The project costing template should be used to determine the amounts to be entered into both the ARC and the University sections within RMS.


    Budgets CIs & PIs

    The total salary costs (inclusive of salary on-costs) for the CIs and PIs, for the proportion of the time they will dedicate to the project, must be entered as in-kind costs in the relevant budgets. The project costing template should be used to determine the amounts for the UWA CIs.


    Budgets Partner Organisation contributions

    The cash and in-kind amounts committed by Partner Organisations must be entered into the appropriate sections within RMS.


    Budget justification

    As with all grant applications, all budget requests must be fully justified. The form on RMS has sections for justifying the ARC request and for justifying the Partner Organisation and other contributions, including the University's contribution. The justification of the University's contribution should include the following or similar wording:"In addition to the indirect (and any direct) contributions, The University of Western Australia's contribution includes a substantial indirect contribution, including existing facilities and equipment (including laboratory and office space); existing research support staff (including UWA-funded research assistants and technical officers, etc.); administrative support; and other indirect research infrastructure and support services such as libraries, computer services, telecommunications, power and lighting, and building maintenance and cleaning."

    Submission Process

    Applications must be completed via the ARC’s Research Management System.

    All applications must be submitted by the internal closing date as follows:
    1. Create application on RMS. Ensure all CIs update their RMS profile.
    2. Within RMS generate an application PDF.
    3. Create an External Grants application record on ROAP.
      • On the General Tab, indicate that you are recording an application
      • On the Application Submission Details tab, indicate that you wish to submit for internal review
      • In the Attachments section, upload the RMS generated applicant PDF, along with any associated documents and complete the mandatory questions on the form
    4. The UWA Chief investigator listed then submits the form in ROAP. Submitting the form for internal review does not generate a Head of School approval request.
      • The application may continue to be refined in RMS during this period. Feedback will be provided in time for you to incorporate into the final submission. Feedback will be based on the version of the application that was submitted for internal review.
    5. Following Research Grants review, feedback will be provided and the form de-submitted in ROAP
    6. Final submission must occur no later than two working days prior to the ARC closing date.
      • The ROAP form will need to be updated, and all mandatory questions completed and a updated copy of the application PDF generated from RMS attached.
      • The UWA Chief investigator listed then re-submits the form, this time the Form will be automatically routed to the nominated Head of School for approval.
      • Finalise the application and submit via RMS, ensuring the application has the status of Submitted to Research Office.
    7. Research Grants will then submit the application to the ARC. Once that has occurred the status of the application on RMS will change to Submitted to ARC.
    Note:
    1. Research Grants may only be able to provide feedback to applicants who internally submit their applications on time.
    2. Please note that some schools may have processes and deadlines in place for budget review and ROAP signoff.
    3. Only submit via ROAP. Do not submit via email. Do not submit any hard copy documents.
    4. Research Grants will only submit applications to ARC after the application has been lodged, and endorsed by the Head of School, via ROAP

    Key Documents

    Linkage Projects points of contact

    Development Team Contacts 

    Grants Office Contact

    Industrial Transformation Research Program

    The Industrial Transformation Research Program (ITRP) is a scheme from the Australian Research Council which is intended to support quality R&D partnerships that will help transform Australian industries.

    The Program will fund Industrial Transformation Research Hubs and Industrial Transformation Training Centres.

    Industrial Transformation Research Hubs will engage Australia's best researchers in issues facing the new industrial economies and training the future workforce. This scheme will support collaborative research activity between the Australian higher education sector and industry designed to focus on strategic outcomes not independently realisable.

    Industrial Transformation Training Centres will foster close partnerships between university-based researchers and other research end-users to provide innovative Higher Degree by Research (HDR) and postdoctoral training for the end-user focused research industries vital to Australia's future.

     

    Key Dates

    • Proposals Open: 6 August 2021
    • Request Not to Assess Internal Close: 24 September 2021
    • Internal Closing Date: 1 October 2021
    • Proposals Close: 15 October 2021

    Key Information

    ITRP Priorities
    • Advanced Manufacturing
    • Cyber Security
    • Food and Agriculture
    • Oil, Gas and Energy Resources
    • Mining Equipment, Technology and Services
    • Medical Technologies and Pharmaceuticals

    Funding

    Research Hubs will be established with funding for up to five years. The ARC will invest a minimum of $500,000 and up to a maximum of $1 million per year in each Hub, with this investment being matched by Partner Organisations- both cash and in kind. As a general rule, the combined Partner Organisation cash contribution must be at least 75% of the total funding requested from the ARC.

    Research Training Centres may be funded for four or five consecutive years. The ARC will invest a minimum of $650,000 per year for the first three years and $150,000 in the fourth year. There is no minimum level of funding provided by the ARC in the fifth year.

    The maximum level of funding is $1 million per year for each Centre. Each project should fund at least ten (10) Higher Degree by Research candidates and three (3) postdoctoral fellows in each Training Centre. Partner Organisation contribution’s must be sufficient to support the research projects of the Higher Degree by Research candidates and postdoctoral fellows in the Centre.

    Submission Process

    Applications must be completed via the ARC’s Research Management System.

    All applications must be submitted by the internal closing date as follows:
    1. Create application on RMS. Ensure all CIs update their RMS profile.
    2. Within RMS generate an application PDF.
    3. Create an External Grants application record on ROAP.
      • On the General Tab, indicate that you are recording an application
      • On the Application Submission Details tab, indicate that you wish to submit for internal review
      • In the Attachments section, upload the RMS generated applicant PDF, along with any associated documents and complete the mandatory questions on the form
    4. The UWA Chief investigator listed then submits the form in ROAP. Submitting the form for internal review does not generate a Head of School approval request.
      • The application may continue to be refined in RMS during this period. Feedback will be provided in time for you to incorporate into the final submission. Feedback will be based on the version of the application that was submitted for internal review.
    5. Following Research Grants review, feedback will be provided and the form de-submitted in ROAP
    6. Final submission must occur no later than two working days prior to the ARC closing date.
      • The ROAP form will need to be updated, and all mandatory questions completed and a updated copy of the application PDF generated from RMS attached.
      • The UWA Chief investigator listed then re-submits the form, this time the Form will be automatically routed to the nominated Head of School for approval.
      • Finalise the application and submit via RMS, ensuring the application has the status of Submitted to Research Office.
    7. Research Grants will then submit the application to the ARC. Once that has occurred the status of the application on RMS will change to Submitted to ARC.
    Note:
    1. Research Grants may only be able to provide feedback to applicants who internally submit their applications on time.
    2. Please note that some schools may have processes and deadlines in place for budget review and ROAP signoff.
    3. Only submit via ROAP. Do not submit via email. Do not submit any hard copy documents.
    4. Research Grants will only submit applications to ARC after the application has been lodged, and endorsed by the Head of School, via ROAP

    Key Documents

    Industrial Transformation Research Program point of contact

    Further support for ARC applications is provided by the UWA Office of Research, through the Research Development Team.

    NHMRC funding supports research across the full spectrum of health and medical research, from basic science through to clinical, public health and health services research.

    NHMRC Logo

    Ideas Grants

    The objective of the Ideas Grant scheme is to support innovative research projects addressing a specific question(s). The expected outcomes are:

    • Innovative and creative research
    • Funding of researchers at all career stages, and
    • Funding any area of health and medical research from discovery to implementation.

    The scheme will provide particular opportunities for early and mid-career researchers. It is expected that the CIA will have the scientific leadership and skills to achieve the proposed project aims.

     

    Key Dates

    • Applications Open in NHMRC granting system: 10 March 2021
    • Minimum data due in NHMRC granting system: 17:00 AEDT 7 April 2021
    • UWA Internal Submission Deadline: 14 April 2021
    • Applications Close in NHMRC’s granting system: 17:00 AEDT 5 May 2021

    Key Information

    An Ideas Grant can be requested for between one and five years depending on the proposal. The maximum number of Chief Investigators (CIs) allowed on an Ideas Grant application is ten. CIs may submit a maximum of two Ideas Grant applications in a grant opportunity subject to other NHMRC grants concurrently held or applied for. For further details, see Appendix B of Ideas Grant 2019 Guidelines

    Ideas Grants will be assessed on the Research Quality (35%), Innovation and Creativity (25%), Significance (20%) and Feasibility (20%) of the proposed research.

    The Ideas Grant scheme is not intended to support research where a clinical trial or cohort study is the primary objective. Applicants seeking funding to conduct a clinical trial or cohort study should apply, instead, to NHMRC’s Clinical Trials and Cohort Studies Grant scheme.


    Minimum Data Requirements

    Minimum data must be entered in the NHMRC’s granting system by the specified due date to allow the NHMRC to start identifying suitable peer reviewers. Applications that fail to satisfy this requirement will not be accepted. Applicants must complete the required fields with correct information. Using placeholder text such as “text”, “synopsis” or “xx” etc. are not acceptable as minimum data.

    Minimum data fields for Ideas Grants are outlined within NHMRC’s granting system.

    Failure to meet the minimum data deadline will result in the application not proceeding.


    Funding by other organisations

    The following organisations may partner NHMRC in funding grants under this grant opportunity:

    • Cancer Councils
    • Cancer Australia & Funding Partners


    Project Costs (Budget)

    The UWA Internal Guidelines should be consulted when preparing applications, especially when developing budgets. The Internal Guidelines include links to general and academic salary scales and Common Classification Levels for Research Grant Funded Staff. An online research project costing template is also available.

    Submission Process

    Applications must be completed via the NHMRC's Sapphire. All applications must be submitted by the internal closing date as follows:

    1. Create application on Sapphire. Ensure all CIs update their Sapphire profiles.
    2. Within Sapphire, create a zip folder by clicking 'Preview' in your application on Sapphire.
    3. Create an External Grants application record on ROAP.
      1. On the General Tab, indicate that you are recording an application
      2. On the Application Submission Details tab, indicate that you wish to submit for internal review
      3. In the Attachments section, upload zip folder generated in Sapphire, along with all associated documents and complete the mandatory questions on the form
    4. The UWA Chief investigator listed then submits the form in ROAP. Submitting the form for internal review does not generate a Head of School approval request.
      • The application may continue to be refined in Sapphire during this period. Feedback will be provided in time for you to incorporate into the final submission. Feedback will be based on the version of the application that was submitted for the internal deadline.
    5. Following the Research Grants Office review, feedback will be provided and the form de-submitted in ROAP
    6. Final submission must occur no later than two working days prior to the NHMRC closing date.
      1. The ROAP form will need to be updated, and all mandatory questions completed and a updated copy of the Zip file generated from Sapphire attached.
      2. The UWA Chief investigator listed then re-submits the form, this time the Form will be automatically routed to the nominated Head of School for approval.
      3. Finalise the application and submit Sapphire, ensuring the application has the status of Submitted to RAO.
    7. Research Grants will then submit the application to the NHMRC. Once that has occurred the status of the application on Sapphire will change to Submitted to NHMRC.
    NOTE:

    1. Research Grants may only be able to provide feedback to applicants who internally submit their applications on time.
    2. Please note that some schools/faculties may have processes and deadlines in place for budget review and ROAP signoff.
    3. Only submit via ROAP. Do not submit via email. Do not submit any hard copy documents.
    4. Research Grants will only submit applications to NHMRC after the application has been lodged, and endorsed by the Head of School, via ROAP

    Key Documents

    NHMRC Project Grants point of contact

    Investigator Grants

    The objective of the Investigator Grant Scheme is to support the research program of outstanding investigators at all career stages. It will consolidate separate salary and research support into a single grant scheme by offering a salary component (if required) and a research support package (RSP).

    The NHMRC Investigator Grants Scheme consolidates and replaces the various fellowship schemes formerly run by the NHMRC including Research Fellowships, Practitioner Fellowships, Early Career Fellowships, Career Development Fellowship and Translating Research into Practice (TRIP) Fellowships.

     

    Key Dates

    • Applications Open in NHMRC granting system:  3 February 2021
    • Minimum data due in NHMRC granting system: 17:00 AEDT 3 March 2021
    • UWA Internal Submission Deadline: 10 March 2021
    • Applications Close in NHMRC's granting system: 17:00 AEDT 31 March 2021

    Key Information

    To support its objective, the Investigator Grant scheme comprises two categories - Emerging Leadership (EL) and Leadership (L). The EL Category is restricted to researchers who are ≤10 years post-PhD or equivalent on 1 March in the year of application. Investigator Grants are held for 5 years and may only involve one Chief Investigator (CI).

    Investigator Grant Investigator Grant level Salary per annum (AUD)** EligibilityNo. of Chief Investigators per grantNo. of Investigator Grants held concurrentlyResearch Support Package (RSP) per annum (AUD)
    Leadership Leadership 3 (L3) $180,319 Unrestricted 1 1 Allocation of $300,000, $400,000, $500,000 or $600,000 per annum as determined by overall score
    Leadership 2 (L2) $169,728
    Leadership 1 (L1) $145,606
    Emerging Leadership Emerging Leadership 2 (EL2) $110,897 ≤10 years post-PhD or equivalent 1 1$200,000
    Emerging Leadership 1 (EL1) $77,950 $50,000

    ** Salaries will increase in line with indexation and are quoted as 1xFTE


    Minimum Data Requirements

    Minimum data must be entered in the NHMRC’s granting system by the specified due date to allow the NHMRC to start identifying suitable peer reviewers. Applications that fail to satisfy this requirement will not be accepted. Applicants must complete the required fields with correct information. Using placeholder text such as “text”, “synopsis” or “xx” etc. are not acceptable as minimum data.

    Minimum data fields for Investigator Grants are outlined within NHMRC’s granting system.

    Failure to meet the minimum data deadline will result in the application not proceeding.

    Submission Process

    Applications must be completed via the NHMRC's Sapphire. All applications must be submitted by the internal closing date as follows:

    1. Create application on Sapphire. Ensure all CIs update their Sapphire profiles.
    2. Within Sapphire, create a zip folder by clicking 'Preview' in your application on Sapphire.
    3. Create an External Grants application record on ROAP.
      1. On the General Tab, indicate that you are recording an application
      2. On the Application Submission Details tab, indicate that you wish to submit for internal review
      3. In the Attachments section, upload zip folder generated in Sapphire, along with all associated documents and complete the mandatory questions on the form
    4. The UWA Chief investigator listed then submits the form in ROAP. Submitting the form for internal review does not generate a Head of School approval request.
      • The application may continue to be refined in Sapphire during this period. Feedback will be provided in time for you to incorporate into the final submission. Feedback will be based on the version of the application that was submitted for the internal deadline.
    5. Following the Research Grants Office review, feedback will be provided and the form de-submitted in ROAP
    6. Final submission must occur no later than two working days prior to the NHMRC closing date.
      1. The ROAP form will need to be updated, and all mandatory questions completed and a updated copy of the Zip file generated from Sapphire attached.
      2. The UWA Chief investigator listed then re-submits the form, this time the Form will be automatically routed to the nominated Head of School for approval.
      3. Finalise the application and submit Sapphire, ensuring the application has the status of Submitted to RAO.
    7. Research Grants will then submit the application to the NHMRC. Once that has occurred the status of the application on Sapphire will change to Submitted to NHMRC.
    NOTE:

    1. Research Grants may only be able to provide feedback to applicants who internally submit their applications on time.
    2. Please note that some schools/faculties may have processes and deadlines in place for budget review and ROAP signoff.
    3. Only submit via ROAP. Do not submit via email. Do not submit any hard copy documents.
    4. Research Grants will only submit applications to NHMRC after the application has been lodged, and endorsed by the Head of School, via ROAP

    Key Documents

    Investigator Grants point of contact

    Synergy Grants

    The objective of the Synergy Grant scheme is to support outstanding multidisciplinary teams of investigators to work together to answer major questions that cannot be answered by a single investigator.

    The expected outcomes are:

    • Multidisciplinary research that addresses major problems in all areas of human health and medical research, from discovery to translation, and
    • Highly collaborative teams of diverse researchers including by gender, career stage and cultural background, working together to address major problems in human health.
     

    Key Dates

    • Applications Open in NHMRC granting system: 24 February 2021
    • Minimum data due in NHMRC granting system: 17:00 AEDT 24 March 2021
    • UWA Internal Submission Deadline: 31 March 2021
    • Applications Close in NHMRC’s granting system: 17:00 AEDT 21 April 2021

    Key Information

    A Synergy Grant provides a total and fixed budget of $5 million. Synergy Grants are awarded for a fixed five-year term.

    Synergy Grant applications will be assessed against the following criteria:

    • Track record comprising publications (20%), research impact (15%) and leadership (5%)
    • Knowledge gain (30%), and
    • Synergy (30%)

    Minimum Data Requirements

    Minimum data must be entered in the NHMRC’s granting system by the specified due date to allow the NHMRC to start identifying suitable peer reviewers. Applications that fail to satisfy this requirement will not be accepted. Applicants must complete the required fields with correct information. Using placeholder text such as “text”, “synopsis” or “xx” etc. are not acceptable as minimum data.

    Minimum data fields for Synergy Grants are outlined within NHMRC’s granting system.

    Failure to meet the minimum data deadline will result in the application not proceeding.

    Submission Process

    Applications must be completed via the NHMRC's Sapphire. All applications must be submitted by the internal closing date as follows:

    1. Create application on Sapphire. Ensure all CIs update their Sapphire profiles.
    2. Within Sapphire, create a zip folder by clicking 'Preview' in your application on Sapphire.
    3. Create an External Grants application record on ROAP.
      1. On the General Tab, indicate that you are recording an application
      2. On the Application Submission Details tab, indicate that you wish to submit for internal review
      3. In the Attachments section, upload zip folder generated in Sapphire, along with all associated documents and complete the mandatory questions on the form
    4. The UWA Chief investigator listed then submits the form in ROAP. Submitting the form for internal review does not generate a Head of School approval request.
      • The application may continue to be refined in Sapphire during this period. Feedback will be provided in time for you to incorporate into the final submission. Feedback will be based on the version of the application that was submitted for the internal deadline.
    5. Following the Research Grants Office review, feedback will be provided and the form de-submitted in ROAP
    6. Final submission must occur no later than two working days prior to the NHMRC closing date.
      1. The ROAP form will need to be updated, and all mandatory questions completed and a updated copy of the Zip file generated from Sapphire attached.
      2. The UWA Chief investigator listed then re-submits the form, this time the Form will be automatically routed to the nominated Head of School for approval.
      3. Finalise the application and submit Sapphire, ensuring the application has the status of Submitted to RAO.
    7. Research Grants will then submit the application to the NHMRC. Once that has occurred the status of the application on Sapphire will change to Submitted to NHMRC.
    NOTE:

    1. Research Grants may only be able to provide feedback to applicants who internally submit their applications on time.
    2. Please note that some schools/faculties may have processes and deadlines in place for budget review and ROAP signoff.
    3. Only submit via ROAP. Do not submit via email. Do not submit any hard copy documents.
    4. Research Grants will only submit applications to NHMRC after the application has been lodged, and endorsed by the Head of School, via ROAP

    Key Documents

    Synergy Grants point of contact

    Strategic and Leveraging Grants (includes Centres, Partnerships, Development etc.)

    The Strategic and Leveraging Grants stream includes grant schemes that address identified strategic and national priorities and support leveraging funding.

     

    Clinical Trials and Cohort Studies Grants

    The objective of the Clinical Trials and Cohort Studies Grants is to support high-quality clinical trials and cohort studies that address important gaps in knowledge leading to relevant and implementable findings for the benefit of human health.

    This grant opportunity is open to research proposals for clinical trials and/or cohort studies of any size – that is, they may be large or small clinical trials or cohort studies.

    The desired outcomes of the Clinical Trials and Cohort Studies Grant opportunity are improvements in health and well-being, health care practice or policy, as a result of:

    • High-quality clinical trials that provide reliable evidence of the effects of health-=related interventions on health outcomes (or appropriate surrogates), and/or
    • High quality cohort studies that provide reliable evidence on the relation of important risk factors and other exposures to health-related outcomes.

    Only applications that will deliver against the intended objective and outcomes will be competitive for funding.

    A Clinical Trials and Cohort Studies Grant can be requested for between one and five years depending on the proposal.

    Clinical Trials and Cohort Studies Grants applications will be assessed against the following criteria:

    • Significance (40%)
    • Research quality (40%)
    • Team quality and capability (20%)
     

    Key Dates

    • Applications Open in NHMRC granting system: 30 June 2021
    • Minimum data due in NHMRC granting system: 17:00 AEDT 28 July 2021
    • UWA Internal Submission Deadline: 4 August 2021
    • Applications Close in NHMRC’s granting system: 17:00 AEDT 25 August 2021

    Key Documents

    Development Grants

    A Development Grant provides funding support to individual researchers, research teams, or a health and medical research company in partnership with a researcher/s to undertake research at the early proof-of-principle or pre-seed stage.

    The Scheme supports the commercial development of a product, process, procedure or service that if applied, would result in improved health care, disease prevention or provide health cost savings. The research will usually be undertaken in Australia.

    The Scheme focuses on medical research that has the potential to be commercialised. The research should achieve critical scientific and commercial proof-of-principle milestones in order to attract further investment from industry development schemes or private sector investment.

     
     

    Key Dates

    • Applications open in Sapphire: 21 April 2021
    • Minimum Data Deadline: 26 May 2021
    • UWA Internal Submission Deadline: 26 May 2021
    • Applications close: 16 June 2021

    Key Documents

    Partnerships for Better Health

    NHMRC Partnerships for Better Health – Projects (Partnership Projects) will help create partnerships among decision makers, policy makers, managers, clinicians and researchers. This funding scheme provides funding and support to create new opportunities for researchers and policy makers to work together to define research questions and undertake research and also to interpret and implement the findings.

    Partnership Projects will answer a specific research question to influence health and well-being through changes in the delivery, organisation, funding and access to health services.

    The initiative will fund projects that require medium to long term support with the goal of supporting research that is likely to impact on health policy, health practice and/or service delivery. Projects must be proposed by alliances between researchers and policy and/or practice partner organisations. This initiative aims to increase the opportunities for the transfer and exchange of research evidence (knowledge), which could result in a greater uptake of research evidence into health policy and health practice and, consequently, an improvement in Australian health and health care.

    This scheme allows applicants to apply at any time during the year rather than through just one annual round. This is to allow researchers and partner organisations to develop timely collaborations. The grant commencement date is not fixed for 1 January – it will be aligned with the timing of each peer review cycle. This allows funding to be administered more quickly after grants are awarded provided all necessary documentation is in place.

     

    Key Dates

    PRC1

    PRC2

    PRC3

    NHMRC Approved Administering Institutions waiver due

    10 March 2021

    14 July 2021

    3 November 2021

    UWA Internal Submission Deadline

    17 March 2021

    22 July 2021

    10 November 2021

    Minimum data due

    24 March 2021

    28 July 2021

    17 November 2021

    Applications close

    07 April 2021

    12 August 2021

    1 December 2021

    Peer Review Meetings

    20-21 July 2021

    16-17 November 2021

    22-23 March 2022

    Key Documents

    Centres of Research Excellence

    The Centres of Research Excellence (CRE) Scheme seeks applications from teams of researchers to pursue innovative, high-quality collaborative research activities in the following priority areas:

    • Clinical Research
    • Health Services Research
    • Population Health Research

    The specific objectives of the scheme are to:

    • support the conduct and development of innovative, high quality, collaborative research
    • promote effective translation of research into health policy and/or practice
    • foster and build capacity in the health and medical research workforce
    • provide opportunities to expand and improve collaborations between research teams.
     

    Key Dates

    • Applications open in RGMS:  24 October 2018 
    • Minimum Data Requirements: 21 November 2018
    • UWA Internal Submission Deadline: 14 November 2018
    • Applications Close: 5 December 2018

    Key Documents

    Targeted Calls for Research

    A Targeted Call for Research (TCR) is a one-time solicitation for grant applications to address a specific health issue. A TCR specifies the scope and objectives of the research to be proposed, application requirements and procedures, and the review criteria to be applied in the evaluation of applications submitted in response to the TCR. In alignment with the overarching goals of NHMRC's Strategic Plan, a TCR will stimulate or greatly advance research in a particular area of health and medical science that will benefit the health of Australians.

    TCRs complement NHMRC's existing suite of funding schemes by funding priority research in defined areas of need and when urgent research needs emerge.

    Information on Open, Upcoming and Closed TCRs can be found on the NHMRC webpages.  

    NHMRC also administers a number of Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) grant opportunities, including TCR’s, on behalf of the Department of Health.

     

    Key Dates

    NHMRC will make multiple Target Calls for Research throughout the year. For the key external dates of these calls please refer to the call specific documents available from GrantConnect.

    • UWA Internal Submission Deadline: 3 weeks prior to the NHMRC application closing date

    Key Documents

    Equipment Grants

    The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) has provided Equipment Grant funding to UWA of $205,719.62 for expenditure in 2022.

    The funding is allocated on a pro rata basis to Administering Institutions according to their share of the total funding awarded by the NHMRC for research each year.

     

    Key Dates

    Opening Date: Monday 6 December 2021

    Closing Date: 5pm, Friday 11 February 2022

    Key Information

    Proposals for equipment purchases that range from small items up to the full amount granted by the NHMRC are welcome. However, the combined total of all awarded grants cannot exceed the amount available.

    Applicants can request funding for the purchase of equipment designed to support high quality health and medical research, as supported by the NHMRC or other competitive health and medical funding. Applications for equipment costing more than the amount requested must be supported by confirmation of additional funds obtained from other Centre, School, or external sources.

    Applicants are encouraged to consult widely prior to submission to ensure that multiple applications for the same or similar item(s) of equipment are not submitted. Collective applications that promote strategic and collaborative use of proposed equipment are especially encouraged.

    The NHMRC emphasises the need for Institutions to be strategic in the purchase of larger items of equipment. A UWA committee will be convened to assess applications and the following criteria will be taken into consideration when making decisions on the equipment to be supported. Please note that this is a competitive process, with applications assessed against the following selection criteria.


    Selection Criteria

    • Preference will be given to pieces of equipment and facilities that are not project specific.
    • Preference will be given to requests that can demonstrate that the purchase and usage of the equipment have been thoroughly and holistically considered, including e.g. cost of installation, availability of suitable and secure housing, cost and availability of water/gas piping, waste disposal, cost of calibration, consumables, etc.
    • Preference will be given to applications that leverage additional funding support.
    • The equipment should support high quality health and medical research, as evidenced by NHMRC or other competitive grant support.
    • A clear case of need must be established. The scheme is not intended to duplicate existing equipment. Lack of access to similar equipment in the institution or region can be used to establish a need for a particular item of equipment.
    • The degree of collaborative use of the equipment eg. multi-user equipment which crosses disciplines, research groups and schools.

    Eligibility

    In order to be eligible all applicants (staff and adjuncts) must have a populated and up-to-date UWA Research Repository Profile. This requires applicants to have uploaded a photograph, and updated their Personal Profile section (at least 150 words).

    All applications must also include a quotation for the equipment to be purchased, and written approval of cash contributions from relevant budget holders.


    NOTE:

    The equipment funds must be expended by 30 October 2022. The NHMRC requires final acquittal of equipment grant funding by 30 April 2023.

    Submission Process

    Applicants must submit an electronic copy of the application form (see 'Key Documents' below) and necessary attachments via the following process:

    1. Create an External Grant Application in UWA's Research Online Application Portal (ROAP). When completing the form:
      • Register this as an 'Application' and not an 'Award' in the General section of the form;
      • Select 'National Health & Medical Research Council NHMRC' as the Primary Funding Agency'
      • Select 'NHMRC Equipment Grants' as the Funding Scheme.
    2. Within the Attachments section of the ROAP form, upload a completed copy of the application form and any necessary supporting documents.
    3. Submit the form within ROAP no later than 5pm, Friday 11 February 2022.

    Please note: late applications will not be accepted.

    Key Documents

    Previous Recipients

    Submission process for Strategic and Leveraging Grants

    Outlined below is the general submission process for all applications under the Strategic and Leveraging Grants. Where scheme specific processes occur they will be highlighted in the relevant scheme section above

    Applications must be completed via the NHMRC's Sapphire. All applications must be submitted by the internal closing date as follows:

    1. Create application on Sapphire. Ensure all CIs update their Sapphire profiles.
    2. Within Sapphire, create a zip folder by clicking 'Preview' in your application on Sapphire.
    3. Create an External Grants application record on ROAP.
      1. On the General Tab, indicate that you are recording an application
      2. On the Application Submission Details tab, indicate that you wish to submit for internal review
      3. In the Attachments section, upload zip folder generated in Sapphire, along with all associated documents and complete the mandatory questions on the form
    4. The UWA Chief investigator listed then submits the form in ROAP. Submitting the form for internal review does not generate a Head of School approval request.
      • The application may continue to be refined in Sapphire during this period. Feedback will be provided in time for you to incorporate into the final submission. Feedback will be based on the version of the application that was submitted for the internal deadline.
    5. Following the Research Grants Office review, feedback will be provided and the form de-submitted in ROAP
    6. Final submission must occur no later than two working days prior to the NHMRC closing date.
      1. The ROAP form will need to be updated, and all mandatory questions completed and a updated copy of the Zip file generated from Sapphire attached.
      2. The UWA Chief investigator listed then re-submits the form, this time the Form will be automatically routed to the nominated Head of School for approval.
      3. Finalise the application and submit Sapphire, ensuring the application has the status of Submitted to RAO.
    7. Research Grants will then submit the application to the NHMRC. Once that has occurred the status of the application on Sapphire will change to Submitted to NHMRC.
    NOTE:

    1. Research Grants may only be able to provide feedback to applicants who internally submit their applications on time.
    2. Please note that some schools/faculties may have processes and deadlines in place for budget review and ROAP signoff.
    3. Only submit via ROAP. Do not submit via email. Do not submit any hard copy documents.
    4. Research Grants will only submit applications to NHMRC after the application has been lodged, and endorsed by the Head of School, via ROAP
     

    Point of contact for Strategic and Leveraging Grants

    Further support for NHMRC applications is provided by the UWA Office of Research Enterprise, through the Research Development Team.

    The Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) is a $20 billion long-term investment supporting Australian health and medical research. The MRFF aims to transform health and medical research and innovation to improve lives, build the economy and contribute to health system sustainability.

    All MRFF Grant Opportunities are posted on the GrantConnect website. Listings on GrantConnect will include information about whether a MRFF scheme is administered through the NHMRC or Commonwealth Department of Health. These two administering agencies have different application processes. Please see below for details.

    MRFF administered through NHMRC

    If the NHMRC is the administering agency for an MRFF scheme, applications will be submitted through the Sapphire granting system.

     

    Key Dates

    • Applications Open: See GrantConnect
    • Minimum Data: See GrantConnect
    • UWA Internal Compliance Review Deadline: 3 weeks (15 working days) before external deadline
    • UWA Submission Deadline: 2 days (48 hours) before external deadline

    Key Information

    Minimum Data Requirements

    Minimum data must be entered in the NHMRC's granting system Sapphire by the specified due date to allow the NHMRC/MRFF to start identifying suitable peer reviewers. Applications that fail to satisfy this requirement will not proceed to peer review. Applicants must complete the required fields with correct information. Using placeholder text such as "text", "synopsis" or "xx" etc. is not acceptable as minimum data.

    Minimum data fields for MRFF schemes are outlined within the grant scheme guidelines available on GrantConnect. Failure to meet the minimum data deadline will result in the application not proceeding.

    Scheme Limits

    Many MRFF schemes have restrictions on how many applications investigators can be named on. Please refer to the scheme guidelines, noting that it is the CIA's responsibility to ensure the eligibility of all CIs on their applications.

    Project Costs (Budget)

    Salary contributions for research staff (Chief Investigators, Professional Research Persons and Technical Support Staff) are provided as Personnel Support Packages (PSPs). Details can be found in the relevant scheme guidelines on GrantConnect. The Research Development Team can also help with budget preparation, see key contacts below.

    Submission Process

    Applications must be completed via the NHMRC's Sapphire.

    All applications must be submitted by the internal closing date as follows:

    1. Application: Create application on Sapphire. Ensure all CIs have updated their Sapphire profiles.
    2. Liaise with the Research Development Team for a content review of your application. This is separate from the Internal Compliance Review which is undertaken by the Research Grants Office to check your application against the funder’s rules and guidelines. See Research Development Team key contacts below.
    3. UWA Internal Compliance Review: The UWA Chief Investigator is strongly encouraged to submit for internal compliance review via ROAP prior to submitting an application to the funder. Within Sapphire, create a zip folder by clicking 'Preview' in your application on Sapphire.
    4. Create an External Grants application record on ROAP
      • On the General Tab, indicate that you are recording an application;
      • On the Application Submission Details tab, indicate that you wish to submit for internal review; and
      • In the Attachments section, upload the zip folder generated in Sapphire, along with all other relevant documents and complete the mandatory questions on the form.
    5. The first named UWA Chief investigator listed then submits the form in ROAP. Submitting the form for internal compliance review does not generate a Head of School approval request.
      • The internal compliance review checks the application against scheme funding rules and guidelines, but does not assess the scientific content of the application. For a content review, contact the Research Development Team.
      • You may continue to refine the application in Sapphire during this period. Feedback will be provided in time for you to incorporate into the final submission. Feedback will be based on the version of the application that was submitted for the internal deadline.
    6. Following the Research Grants Office review, feedback will be provided and the form de-submitted in ROAP.
    7. Final Submission to NHMRC/MRFF: Final submission must occur no later than two working days prior to the NHMRC/MRFF closing date.
      • The ROAP form will need to be updated, and all mandatory questions completed and an updated copy of the Zip file generated from Sapphire attached.
      • The UWA Chief investigator listed then re-submits the form, this time the Form will be automatically routed to the nominated Head of School for approval.
      • Finalise the application and submit within Sapphire, ensuring the application has the status of Submitted to RAO.
    8. The Research Grants Office will then submit the application to the NHMRC/MRFF. Once that has occurred the status of the application on Sapphire will change to 'Submitted to NHMRC'.
    Note:
    1. The Research Grants Office may only be able to provide feedback to applicants who submit their applications for internal compliance review on time.
    2. Please note that some schools may have processes and deadlines in place for budget review and ROAP signoff.
    3. Only submit for internal compliance review via ROAP. Do not submit via email. Do not submit any hard copy documents.
    4. The Research Grants Office will only submit applications to NHMRC/MRFF after the application has been lodged, and endorsed by the Head of School, via ROAP.

    MRFF Administered by NHMRC points of contact

    Research Grants Office (Internal Compliance Review)
    Research Development Team (Content Review)

    MRFF administered through the Commonwealth Department of Health

    If the Commonwealth Department of Health is the administering agency for an MRFF scheme, applications will be submitted through the Biz portal.

     

    Key Dates

    • Applications Open: See GrantConnect
    • UWA Internal Compliance Review Deadline: 3 weeks (15 working days) before external deadline

    Key Information

    Scheme Limits

    Many MRFF schemes have restrictions on how many applications investigators can be named on. Please refer to the scheme guidelines, noting that it is the CIA’s responsibility to ensure the eligibility of all CIs on their applications.

    Project Costs (Budget)

    The UWA Internal Guidelines should be consulted when preparing applications, especially when developing budgets. The Internal Guidelines include links to general and academic salary scales and Common Classification Levels for Research Grant Funded Staff. An online research project costing template is also available. The Research Development Team can also help with budget preparation, see key contacts below.

    Submission Process

    Applications must be completed via the Biz portal.

    All applications must be submitted by the internal closing date as follows:

    1. Application: Create application on the Biz portal. The Research Development Team can provide support and feedback on the quality and clarity of an application. See key contacts below. Please note: this is separate from the Internal Compliance Review which is undertaken by the Research Grants Office to check your application against the funder’s rules and guidelines. Tip sheets and resources are also available on the Research Development website.
    2. The application on the Biz portal asks for commercial information about the administering organisation. Please liaise with the Research Development Team contact (below) for these details.
    3. UWA Internal Compliance Review: The UWA Chief Investigator is strongly encouraged to submit for internal compliance review via ROAP prior to submitting an application to  the funder, as follows:
      • Create an External Grants application record on ROAP;
      • On the General Tab, indicate that you are recording an application;
      • On the Application Submission Details tab, indicate that you wish to submit for internal review; and
      • In the Attachments section, upload a copy of the application and complete the mandatory questions on the form.
    • Submitting the form for internal compliance review does not generate a Head of School approval request.
    • Internal compliance review checks the application against scheme funding rules and guidelines, but does not assess the scientific content of the application. For a content review, contact the Research Development Team, see contacts below.
    • You may continue to refine the application while the internal compliance review is underway. Feedback will be provided in time for you to incorporate into the final submission. Feedback will be based on the version of the application that was submitted for the internal deadline.
    1. Following the Research Grants Office review, feedback will be provided and the form de-submitted in ROAP.
    2. Letters of Support are often required from the administering organisation and partner organisations for MRFF schemes administered through the Commonwealth Department of Health. Please liaise with the Grants Office or Research Development Team contacts for template letters. The Research Development Team can assist with reviewing the content of the letters. Note: institutional letters of support need to be signed by the DVCR (who requires explicit endorsement of any cash or in-kind commitments from the relevant Head of School or equivalent). Please liaise with the Research Grants Office contact (below) to arrange signoff.
    3. Final submission via Biz portal: Final submission of the application to the MRFF should proceed once the ROAP form has been updated with finalised details and a final copy of the application, and the ROAP approved by the relevant Head of School as follows:
      • Update ROAP form and answer all mandatory questions and attach an updated copy of the Zip file generated from Sapphire;
      • UWA Chief investigator listed then re-submits the form, this time the Form will be automatically routed to the nominated Head of School for approval;
      • Finalise the application and submit via the Biz portal once ROAP form has been approved by Head of School.
    Note
    • The Research Grants Office may only be able to provide feedback to applicants who submit their applications for internal compliance review on time.
    • Please note that some schools may have processes and deadlines in place for budget review and ROAP signoff.
    • Only submit for internal compliance review via ROAP. Do not submit via email. Do not submit any hard copy documents.
    • Applications should be submitted on the Biz portal only after the application has been lodged and endorsed by the Head of School via ROAP.

    MRFF Administered by Department of Health points of contact

    Research Grants Office (Internal Compliance Review)
    Research Development Team (Content Review)

    NIH

    The American National Institutes of Health (NIH) is the largest public funder of biomedical research in the world, investing more than $32 billion a year to enhance life, and reduce illness & disability.

    NIH Logo

    The following documents will assist you with your NIH application:

    These second and third forms contain UWA-specific NIH data, such as ethics assurance and other numbers:

    Universities Australia: Australia-Germany Joint Research Cooperation Scheme

    This scheme fosters research collaboration between Australian researchers from Universities Australia member universities and German researchers from German universities and research institutes.

    Universities Australia Logo

    Further information and application forms are available from the Universities Australia Website.


    Application instructions:
    1. Create a new 'UA-DAAD - Australia Germany Joint Research Cooperation Scheme' application in UWA's Research Online Application Portal (ROAP). To do this, log in, click 'Applications' in the yellow ribbon, then the blue '+New Application' button and select 'UA-DAAD - Australia Germany Joint Research Cooperation Scheme'.
    2.  Within the 'Attachments' section of the ROAP form, upload a completed copy of the application form as a single PDF document.
    3. Submit the form within ROAP no later than the deadline (5pm, 27 June 2022) - late applications will not be accepted.

    For all enquiries, please contact [email protected]

    WUN Research Development Fund

    WUN Research Development Fund grants provide up to #10,000 (approximately A$17,700) to support international collaborations that address WUN's Global Challenges.

    WUN Logo

    All RDF applications must involve the participation of at least three partner universities, from two geographical regions.  Applications must address a Global Challenge - strategic research areas, requiring the sharing of knowledge across institutions and disciplines:

    • Responding to Climate Change
    • Global Higher Education and Research
    • Understanding Cultures
    • Public Health (Non-communicable disease)

    Proposals are particularly encouraged that address one or more of these Global Challenges as well as one of WUN?s cross-cutting themes in economics, big data, and regional programs of the Global China Group and the Global Africa Group. The RDF provides one year of seed funding with the firm expectation that projects will result in academic publications, policy impact and sustainability through securing funding from external sources.

    Full application guidelines are available via the WUN Online application portal

    Matched Funding

    The RDF requires all WUN partners listed on an application to match the total funding requested. Lead applicants will typically provide most of the matched funding.

    Should you require funding to support your application, this can be made available through the UWA Research Collaboration Awards.  

    UWA Researcher Led Application Process

    Each member institution may submit a maximum of two RDF proposals. UWA Applications will be shortlisted internally prior to submission.

    1. Complete the WUN RDF Internal Application Form, provided below; 
    2. Submit a pdf copy of the completed WUN RDF Internal Application Form to the Research Grants office via email to [email protected]

    To be considered for UWA shortlisting, applications must be submitted by 5.00 pm (AWST), 10 October, 2019. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.



    Externally Led Applications

    To facilitate participation on externally-led RDF applications, a limited amount of funding is available via the WUN Matching Fund. Please contact Ms Jerline Chen for details.

     

    Further support for research applications is provided by the UWA Office of Research Enterprise, through the Research Development Team.