ALS Canada & Brain Canada Discovery Grant Program
Together, Brain Canada and the ALS Society of Canada are excited to announce the continuation of their much-valued partnership with a $1-million Discovery Grants competition
The 2021 Discovery Grants Program encompasses applications previously designated as Project Grants. The purpose of the program is to invest in the best possible projects that are:
- novel or innovative research approaches, supported by sound rationale and a feasible experimental plan, but not necessarily preliminary data,
- focused on identifying causes of, or treatments for ALS and/or related neurological diseases, including primary lateral sclerosis, progressive muscular atrophy, and ALS/FTLD (frontotemporal lobar dementia), or
- research focused on avenues to maximize function, minimize disability and optimize quality of life through symptom management, and support to families and persons or families living with ALS.
Eligibility
A minimum of 2 investigators are required, from different institutions (or distinct departments within the same institution). A lead investigator must be named who will assume the administrative and financial responsibilities for the team grant. The lead investigator’s institution will be deemed the host institution for the grant and will receive the funding disbursements from Brain Canada.
For options i and ii above, each co-investigator must be an independent researcher who has a PhD or equivalent, or a health professional degree (MD). Clinical researchers should have completed residency training which includes research experience, or the individual should have previous research experience. The PI must hold an academic position at a qualifying Canadian institution, defined according to CIHR guidelines (http://www.cihr-irsc.gc.ca/e/36374.html).
For option iii above, the principal investigator must be a clinician with an MD or a non-physician professional with experience treating or working with people living with ALS. The PI must hold an academic position at a qualifying Canadian institution, defined according to CIHR guidelines (http://www.cihr-irsc.gc.ca/e/36374.html). In the event that the PI does not hold an academic position, justification must be provided for assessment by an ad hoc sub-committee of the ALS Canada Scientific and Medical Advisory Council.
Evidence clearly shows that increasing equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in research environments enhances excellence, innovation, and creativity. ALS Canada and Brain Canada are committed to excellence through equity, and we encourage applicants of diverse backgrounds to apply to our funding opportunities.
Timeline
Application Deadline: July 5, 1:00 p.m. ET
Notification of award: October 2021
Earliest funding start date: January 2022
See Full Eligibility & Application Details