Research Support
The objective of this research support program is to provide a support mechanism and seed funding for pilot research projects initiated by junior to mid level investigators, that explore the feasibility of new research approaches, allow investigators to collect preliminary data to subsequently develop major grant applications, or complete short-term research studies. The Program Review Committee (PRC) is responsible for determining preferred areas of research to receive funding under the grant. Areas of research that have been emphasized are those which have the potential to benefit most or all of the countries in the region and address some of the most pressing public health problems in the region.
Funding process
Except under very unusual circumstances, proposed research projects are expected to be carried out in the applicant's home country. In response to the Request for Applications, applicants are asked to submit letters of intent, and based on these, a subset are invited to submit detailed proposals, using a structured template. Based on criteria that have been established by the PRC, the Scientific Review Committee evaluates applications. Detailed critiques are then provided to the applicant, irrespective of whether a project is selected for funding or not.