Genome Canada has launched a Request for Applications (RFA) and is seeking proposals for large-scale research projects which focus on the application of genomics to Natural Resources and the Environment.
This competition aims to support applied research projects focused on using genomic approaches to address challenges and opportunities of importance to Canada’s natural resources and environment sectors, including interactions between natural resources and the environment, thereby contributing to the Canadian bioeconomy and the well-being of Canadians. The scope of this funding opportunity includes areas such as genomics research related to energy, mining, forestry, water stewardship, wildlife management/conservation and bioproducts that help conserve natural resources and protect the environment. It also includes the use of genomics to identify key elements that impact ecosystem structure, function and diversity.
Applicants must demonstrate how their proposal holds high potential for attaining concrete deliverables by the end of the funding period, and that these deliverables will be subsequently translated into significant social and/or economic benefits within as short a timeframe as possible following the conclusion of the project, taking into consideration what is reasonable for each sector.
Note that studies focusing on human health as impacted by the environment or projects focused on producing food or food supplements for human or animal consumption are not eligible for support in this competition.
All applicants must identify and address key ethical, economic, environmental, legal and/or social aspects relevant to the genomics research (GE3LS) being proposed as part of the overall research plan. Stand alone GE3LS proposals are also eligible to be submitted as large-scale projects.
In order to better prepare the projects being submitted from Ontario for this competition, the Ontario Genomics Institute (OGI) will complete a due diligence review of applications prior to submission to Genome Canada. Please note that to accommodate this process the OGI deadlines differ from those in the official RFA from Genome Canada. Applicants will receive feedback on their applications including gaps and areas for improvement. OGI plans to use this feedback to assess the level and type of support required to help the teams through the application process.
Researchers in Ontario intending to submit an application are strongly encouraged to contact OGI to discuss details of the competition such as the scope, the application process, tips for writing the Benefits to Canada Section of the proposal, how to incorporate GE3LS in proposals, and co-funding requirements.
