ResearchNet - RechercheNet

Table of Contents

• Description
• Objectives
• Eligibility
• Guidelines
• Review Process and Evaluation
• How to Apply
• Contact Information
• Sponsor Description
• Additional Information

Description

The CIHR Strategic Master's Award program provides financial support to scholars who are engaged in an eligible master's program in Canada (refer to Eligibility) and that are relevant to specific CIHR priority research areas. This support allows these scholars to concentrate on their studies in their chosen fields.

The CIHR Strategic Master's Award program is supported by CIHR Institutes and Initiatives with specific priority areas and is administered by CIHR.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

CIHR is committed to supporting a research environment that reflects the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion, and honors its commitment to reconciliation by strengthening the health and well-being of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples. Achieving a more equitable, diverse and inclusive Canadian research enterprise is essential to creating the excellent, innovative and impactful research necessary to advance knowledge and understanding, and to responding to local, national and global challenges. Beyond efforts to bolster EDI, CIHR recognizes that First Nations, Métis and Inuit are rights-holding as First Peoples of Canada, and initiatives should be developed through distinctions-based approaches, as found in the strategic plan Setting new directions to support Indigenous research and research training in Canada 2019-2022.

Research Areas

This funding opportunity will support projects relevant to the following research areas:

• CIHR- Centre for Research on Pandemic Preparedness and Health Emergencies: The CRPPHE's mandate is to grow Canada's research leadership in preparedness, prevention, response, and recovery from pandemics and public health emergencies, including by building and supporting Canadian research capacity in these areas. CRPPHE encourages interdisciplinary applications, including (but not limited to) those  that are focused on questions requiring One Health approaches, more than one of the emergency management pillars (i.e., preparedness, prevention, response, and recovery), and/or spanning more than one pillar of health research, i.e. biomedical; clinical; health systems services; and population health.
• CIHR- Institute of Genetics (IG): Applications must focus on Bioinformatics and Computational Biology and Health Data Science in genetics and genomics. Applications that address health equity, sex and gender and/or Indigenous health and wellness issues are encouraged.
• CIHR- Institute of Gender and Health (IGH): Applications must focus on Sex, Gender and Intersectionality in Health Research. The IGH mandate, includes but is not limited to 2S/LGBTQIA+ Health and Wellness and Women's Health through an intersectional lens as well as race, racism, gender and health.
• CIHR - Institute of Indigenous Peoples' Health (IIPH): Applications must focus on First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis Health and Indigenous Health. IIPH fosters the advancement of a national health research agenda to improve and promote the health of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples in Canada, through research, knowledge translation and capacity building. The Institute's pursuit of research excellence is enhanced by respect for community research priorities and Indigenous knowledges, values and cultures.

Funds Available

CIHR and partner(s) financial contributions for this initiative are subject to availability of funds. Should CIHR or partner(s) funding levels not be available or are decreased due to unforeseen circumstances, CIHR and partner(s) reserve the right to reduce, defer or suspend financial contributions to awards received as a result of this funding opportunity.

• The total amount available for this funding opportunity is $262,500, enough to fund approximately 15 awards. This amount may increase if additional funding partners participate. The maximum amount per award is $17,500 per year for up to one year.
• Of this $262,500:
  • $70,000 is available to fund 4 applications relevant to Pandemic Preparedness and Health Emergencies
  • $52,500 is available to fund 3 applications relevant to Bioinformatics and Computational Biology and Health Data Science in genetics and genomics.
  • $70,000 is available to fund 4 applications relevant to Sex, Gender and Intersectionality in Health Research. IGH will provide funding for applications determined to be relevant to its mandate and that explicitly incorporate an intersectional lens within sex, gender and health research. The IGH mandate is to foster research excellence regarding the influence of sex and gender on health and to apply these findings to identify and address pressing health challenges facing men, women, girls, boys and gender-diverse people. One of these awards will be dedicated to applications relevant to the Race, Racism, Gender and Health research area.
  • $70,000 is available to fund 4 applications relevant to First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis Health, and Indigenous Health.
• Applications relevant to each research area will be funded in order of ranking, with the highest rated first.

For more information on the appropriate use of funds, refer to Allowable Costs.

Objectives

The objective of the CIHR Strategic Master's Award program is to help develop research skills and assist in the training of highly qualified personnel (HQP) by supporting students who demonstrate potential in undergraduate and early graduate studies whose applications are relevant to any of the research areas.

Eligibility

Eligibility to Apply

For an application to be eligible, all the requirements stated below must be met:

The Nominated Principal Applicant (NPA) must:

• be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident of Canada or a Protected Person under subsection 95(2) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Canada) as of the application deadline date
• be enrolled in or have applied for full-time admission* to an eligible master's program:
  • Program of study eligibility: An eligible master's program must include a significant research component that leads to the completion of a thesis, major research project, dissertation, scholarly publication, performance, recital and/or exhibit that is merit/expert-reviewed at the institutional level as a requirement for completion of the program.
  • Joint programs (equivalent to a master's level) with a professional degree for example, MD/PhD, DVM/PhD, JD/MA, JD/PhD, MBA/PhD, MA/MBA) as well as clinically oriented programs of study, including clinical psychology, are eligible if they have a significant autonomous research component, as described above.
  • Master's programs that are based only on course work are not eligible since they do not include a significant research component, as described above.
  • The Institution Paid must be authorized to administer CIHR funds by the application deadline (see List of CIHR Eligible Institutions)
• identify a primary supervisor on the application. Consult the funding opportunity and the CIHR Application Administration Guide for more information.
• have completed, as of December 31 of the year of application
  • either between 0 and 18 months of full-time studies (or full-time equivalent) with a minimum of 12 months of study remaining upon award activation in the program for which the NPA is requesting funding,** which may be one of the following:
    • a master's program
    • a combined master's-doctoral program
    • a master's program that will transition to an eligible doctoral program, either before or after award activation, with no master's degree conferred (fast-track)
• not be currently holding a CGS M scholarship from CIHR, NSERC or SSHRC
• complete one of CIHR's three interactive modules on sex and gender in research and include the completion certificate with their application (How to Apply section for further details).

Note: NPAs may submit a maximum of one CIHR Strategic Master's Award application per academic year. NPAs may also submit an application to the CGS Master's program for the same academic year. Note that nominations to the Vanier CGS program and applications to the Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships program do not count toward this limit (other exceptions may apply to CIHR internships).

*Refer to the Tri-agency research training award holder's guide for details regarding part-time admission.

**All studies credited toward the eligible program will be counted, whether or not they were completed at the degree-granting institution.

Guidelines

General CIHR Policies

Before submitting an application to this funding opportunity, NPAs should review the relevant policies and guidelines on the CIHR Funding Policies page to ensure understanding of their responsibilities and expectations, including the Tri-agency research training award holder's guide (TARTAHG).

Allowable Costs

Applicants are advised to consult the Use of Grant Funds section of the Tri-Agency (CIHR, NSERC and SSHRC) Guide on Financial Administration (TAGFA) to determine if an expenditure is an appropriate use of grant funds (if applicable).

Use of Personal Information

• Personal information submitted during the application process, including but not limited to information provided through NPA CVs, the Self-identification Questionnaire and other application documents required by this FO, will be made available to CIHR personnel for the purposes of future program design and delivery, results measurement and reporting. For further information about the Self-identification questionnaire and the use of personal information, see the Self-identification Questionnaire Frequently Asked Questions.

Conditions of Funding

• The award must be accepted within 15 working days of the date of offer or the award will be cancelled.
• The NPA is required to obtain the research institution's signature.
• Awards will only begin after the recipient has registered in their full-time program of study and has provided official confirmation from the Registrar's office of their enrollment.
• Awards must start either on May 1, 2024, September 1, 2024, or January 1, 2025.
• Data related to First Nations, Inuit or Métis communities whose traditional and ancestral territories are in Canada must be managed in accordance with data management principles developed and approved by those communities, and on the basis of free, prior and informed consent. This includes, but is not limited to, considerations of Indigenous data sovereignty, as well as data collection, ownership, protection, use, and sharing.
• The NPA must consent to the use and disclosure of full application and nominative information at the time of application, for purposes of relevance review and/or funding decisions by the relevant sponsors.
• The NPA may be required to submit a final report.
• The NPA will be required to contribute to the monitoring, review and evaluation of CIHR's programs, policies and processes by participating in evaluation studies, surveys, workshops, audits, and by providing data or reports as required for the purpose of collecting information to assess progress and results.
• Awards must be held at a CIHR eligible Canadian institutions. Awards are not intended to be portable; however, at the discretion of the host institution and with CIHR approval, exceptions may be made in certain circumstances (for example, parental reasons, medical reasons, family-related responsibilities, or pandemic).
• NPAs and award holders must comply with the policies and guidelines set out in this Funding Opportunity; in the Tri-agency research training award holder's guide and in any other documents related and/or relevant to this program.
• NPAs cannot concurrently accept or hold a Canada Graduate Scholarships Master's CIHR, NSERC or SSHRC award. NPAs cannot be concurrently holding another CIHR, NSERC or SSHRC award.
• Funds will only be released to the institution or organization identified as the Institution Paid. If the Institution Paid is not already authorized to administer CIHR funds, for the duration of the grant term, it may be required to undergo a financial and eligibility review and sign a funding agreement, or the successful NPAs may choose to have their funds administered by a CIHR eligible institution. Please contact the Contact Centre to enquire about the process.

Review Process and Evaluation

Relevance Review Process

To conduct relevance review, CIHR and Partners will have access to various information submitted by NPAs (completed relevance form, project titles, summaries). Alignment of the proposed research with the specific objectives of the CIHR Institute, Initiative, Branch and/or partners offering funding through the CIHR Strategic Master's Award Funding Opportunity is required.

Applications that are not deemed to be relevant will be withdrawn from the competition.

Review Process

A CIHR review committee will evaluate the full applications. The top ranked applications relevant to each pool will be funded in rank order as far as funds per Research Area will allow.

For information on CIHR's peer review principles, see the Peer Review: Overview section of CIHR's website.

Evaluation Criteria

To support the objectives of this funding opportunity, the following evaluation criteria will be used:

1. Academic Excellence (25%)
• Demonstration of past academic results, transcripts, awards and distinctions.
• Examples of indicators of academic excellence:
  • Academic record
  • Scholarships and awards held
  • Duration of previous studies
  • Type of program and courses pursued relevant to the research area.
2. Research Potential (25%)
   • Demonstration of research history, interest in discovery, the proposed research, its potential contribution to the advancement of knowledge in the field and any anticipated outcomes.
   • Examples of indicators of research potential:
     • Quality of contributions to research and development (e.g., research publications, reports, books, guidelines, datasets, code, tools, training and mentorship, volunteerism, community engagement, standards, software and commercialized products).
     • Relevance of work experience and academic training to field of proposed research
     • Significance, feasibility and merit of the proposed research
     • Judgment and ability to think critically
     • Ability to apply skills and knowledge
     • Initiative and autonomy
     • Research experience and achievements relative to expectations of someone with master's level academic experience.
3. Personal characteristics and interpersonal skills (25%)
   • Demonstration of professional and relevant extracurricular interactions and collaborations.
   • Examples of indicators of personal characteristics and interpersonal skills:
     • Work experience
     • Leadership experience
     • Project management including organizing conferences and meetings
     • Ability or potential to communicate theoretical, technical or scientific concepts clearly and logically in written and oral formats
     • Involvement in academic life
     • Volunteerism/community outreach
4. Research Training Environment (25%)
   • Demonstration that appropriate elements of the research environment that will contribute directly or indirectly to the quality of the NPA's research training experience are available (including space, facilities, funding, mentoring, training, collaborations, and personnel support).
   • Demonstration of the commitment of the proposed supervisor and their institution to support the development of the NPA's research project (funding, facilities, equipment, etc.), professional development,
   • Demonstration of the commitment of the proposed supervisor to foster an equitable and inclusive relationship with the NPA.

Funding Decision

Upon completion of the peer review, CIHR will generate ranking lists for each pool (research area). These lists will be used for funding decision-making purposes and will remain anonymous. Applications will be funded by pool from the top down in order of ranking as far as the budget will allow. Each relevant pool will have its own, separate funding budget as described in Funds Available.

CIHR reserves the right to break ties in ranking by using the consolidated percent rank for ties between applications within a committee.

Applications that receive a final rating below 3.5 will not be funded.

The names of successfully funded NPAs will be published on the CIHR website

How to Apply

• The application process for this funding opportunity is comprised of one step: Full Application using ResearchNet.
• To complete the Full Application, follow the "Specific Instructions" listed below. Please read all instructions regarding the application process before applying.
• Applicants who are Protected Persons must contact CIHR's Contact Centre for additional instructions
• NPAs and their Primary supervisor are required to:
  • Have/obtain a ResearchNet account
  • Have/obtain a CIHR PIN
  • Complete the Self-identification Questionnaire.

* Applicants and their supervisor(s) should each only have one ResearchNet account. If you have already accessed ResearchNet in the past, do not register for a new account.

Specific instructions to complete your ResearchNet application

Step 1 - Complete the Academic Common CV (NPA only)

NPAs must choose the CIHR Academic CV template. Common CVs (CCV) are required regardless of the citizenship of the NPA. To produce a Common CV:

1. Go to the Common CV website and "Login".
2. Under "CV", select "Funding", then select CIHR and the appropriate CV type (CIHR Academic) from the dropdowns. Then click "Load".
3. Enter all the relevant and necessary data and click on "Done". A validation will automatically be performed and errors, if any, will be displayed. The validation rules are specific to CIHR and the selected CV type.
4. Review the CCV data online via a preview of the PDF.
5. When satisfied, click on "Submit".
6. Record the confirmation number that is displayed with the status message (which can also be found under the "History" tab and on the first page of the CCV PDF).
7. Enter the recorded confirmation number under the "Identify Participants" section on ResearchNet.
8. If changes are required to the CCV for a certain application, NPAs must repeat the steps above and record the new confirmation number.

Note: During peak periods, there can be a delay for the validation of the CCV confirmation number by ResearchNet. It is highly recommended that NPAs enter their CCV confirmation number in their application well in advance of the competition deadline.

In addition to the instructions in the CCV, here are additional instructions, specific to this funding opportunity, for sections that align with the evaluation criteria. It provides important information to reviewers for the adjudication of each application. Do not feel obligated to complete every CCV field. The numerous fields are simply meant to capture information from different fields of research and for various funding opportunities.

1. Section entitled "Education", Sub-Section entitled "Degrees" (Updated: 2023-12-01)
   • Every degree (Bachelor's, Master's and Doctorate, etc.) must be recorded in the CCV whether they are complete or in progress*, including degrees from which the NPA have withdrawn and courses completed outside of a degree. (Updated: 2023-12-01)
     • If the NPA has been or will be pursuing a combined program, record each "level of study" separately; in the case of an MD/PhD program, for example, create one entry selecting the Degree type Bachelor's, and one entry selecting the Degree type Doctoral, and follow these steps for each entry:
       • Enter the degree information.
       • Enter the same degree name/information (for example, "MD/PhD") for each entry.
       • Select In progress as the Degree status.
       • Enter the same Degree start date for both entries.
       • Do not enter a Degree received date.
       • Click Done.

     *Note: NPAs who have transferred to their doctoral program without completing their Master's studies and/or are pursuing a combined doctoral program should still record their studies as per below: (Updated: 2023-12-01)

     • Record the Master's and/or any combined studies distinctively by indicating "In Progress" as the degree status.
     • Record the doctoral studies distinctively by indicating "In Progress" or "Completed" as the degree status and by responding "Yes" to the question "Transferred to PhD without completing Master's?"
2. Section entitled "Recognitions"
   • Indicate any recognition received, including honors, distinctions, prizes, awards (competitive or not, monetary or not, declined … etc.) and citations. For further details regarding recognitions, click on the "?" next to the Recognitions section title.
3. Section entitled "Employment"
   • NPAs must list any previous or current employment opportunities.
   • If there are none, leave this section blank.
4. Section entitled "Employment", Sub-Section entitled "Leaves of Absence and Impact on Research"

If applicable, NPAs must explain any special circumstances that may have affected their research, professional career, record of academic or research achievement or completion of degrees. For example, administrative responsibilities, maternity/parental leave, child-rearing, illness, disability, cultural or community responsibilities, socio-economic context, trauma and loss, family responsibilities or a pandemic.

5. Section entitled "Research Funding History"
   • Only include research funding entries whereby the NPA was formally recorded as co-applicant, co-investigator, co-knowledge user, collaborator, decision maker, policy maker, principal applicant, principal investigator or principal knowledge user.
   • The information in this section should not duplicate information included elsewhere in the CCV (i.e. list awards in "Recognitions" and not in this section).
6. Section entitled "Activities"
   • The activities and contributions defined in this section should include both academic (including organizing conferences and meetings; involvement in academic life) and non-academic achievements (volunteerism/community outreach), and their impacts.
   • Only entries with dates within the past 5 years may be submitted.
   • If there are none, leave this section blank.
7. Section entitled "Contributions"
   • Presentations:
     • Conference poster presentations should be listed under "Presentations". If the abstract was published in a conference journal, it should be listed under the sub-section entitled "Conference Publications" found under the "Publications" section.
     • Only entries with dates within the past 5 years may be submitted.
   • Publications:
     • Only entries with dates within the past 5 years may be submitted.
     • Only include publications that have been accepted or are in press. Do not include publications in preparation or submitted (unless available in a recognized scientific public archive).
     • Theses should be included under sub-section "Dissertations".
   • Intellectual Property:
     • This section should include details for patents and intellectual property rights for technology transfer, products and services. Do not include publications in this section. Descriptions might include the title, patents or intellectual property rights number and date, country(ies) of issue, the name of the inventors, as well as relevance or impact of the stated item.

Important Note: Only entries with dates within the past 5 years may be submitted. If the NPA has taken a leave of absence for certain reasons (e.g. parental, medical, family-related…), this 5-year period is extended accordingly. NPAs should add an explanation in section "Employment", Sub-Section entitled "Leaves of Absence and Impact on Research" to their CCV activities and contributions that will best serve their application and are encouraged to become familiar with the evaluation criteria for this funding opportunity.

Step 2 - Complete the Strategic Masters' Award ResearchNet application

1. Identify Participants
2. Enter Proposal Information
3. Attach Other Application Materials
4. Apply to Priority Announcements / Funding Pools (Mandatory)
5. Print/Upload Signature Pages
6. Preview
7. Consent and Submit

Task - Identify Participants

1. Identify, at a minimum, a NPA and a Primary Supervisor. Consult the Eligibility section and ensure that all requirements are met.
   • If the NPA is a Protected Person, under Citizenship select "Other" and specify the NPA's home country in the drop-down.
     • IMPORTANT: If the NPA selects "Other" and the NPA is not a Protected Person, the application will be deemed ineligible and the application will be withdrawn.
2. This section collects information on:
   • The NPA's:
     • CIHR PIN;
     • CCV confirmation number;
     • Contact information which will allow CIHR to communicate with the NPA if needed;
   • The Primary Supervisor:
     • CIHR PIN;
     • Contact information which will allow CIHR to communicate with the primary supervisor if needed.

Proof of citizenship or permanent residence

The NPA must attach their valid proof of Canadian Citizenship, Permanent Resident or Protected Person document. The document must be uploaded in PDF format (unprotected) and the total size cannot exceed 30 MB.

The following are the acceptable forms of proof:

• Certificate of Canadian Citizenship;
• Birth certificate/ copy of an act issued by the proper provincial government authority;
• Valid passport;
• Permanent Resident Card;
• Form IMM 1000;
• Form IMM 5292;
• Letter received indicating a positive decision from the Immigration and Refugee Board;
• Verification of Status (VOS) document with positive Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA) decision from IRCC;
• Temporary Resident Permit if the NPA is a Protected Temporary Resident.

Task - Enter Proposal Information

This section collects information related to the research project of the NPA.

Title

CIHR will identify the research project using the title. For this reason, NPAs cannot edit their project title once the application is submitted.

Lay Title

Provide a title for the project that is in a language clear to the general public. Lay titles are used by CIHR to inform the public and Parliament about the valuable research supported through public funds.

Lay Abstract

Describe the project in a way that is accessible to a lay audience. Indicate how the proposed research can improve personal health, health of populations and/or health delivery system. This information is used by CIHR to inform the public and Parliament about the valuable research supported through public funds.

Primary location where research will be conducted

Indicate the institution in which the research will be conducted.

Institution

Indicate the institution that will administer the award funds. Consult the CIHR Application Administration Guide for more information. Without exception, CIHR Strategic Master's Awards are tenable only at CIHR eligible Canadian institutions.

Certification Requirements

If the application is selected for funding, the necessary certification requirements must be met in accordance with policies on ethical conduct of research. Relevant policies:

• Agreement on the Administration of Agency Grants and Awards by Research Institutions
• CIHR Funding Policies

In order to carry out the proposed research in this application, is an exemption from Health Canada under Section 56 of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act required?

Trainees are exempt and should answer "No".

Does this application propose research involving Indigenous Peoples?

Indicate if the application proposes research involving Indigenous Peoples. This information will be used for statistical purposes only.

NPAs, whose proposed research will involve First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples, must ensure to work and engage with Indigenous communities in a meaningful and culturally safe way. Please, also consult Research Involving the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples of Canada.

Are sex (biological) considerations taken into account in this study?

Indicate how sex (biological) considerations are taken into account in this study. For a guide to sex and gender-based analysis, please consult the CIHR website.

Are gender (socio-cultural) considerations taken into account in this study?

Indicate if gender (socio-cultural) considerations are taken into account in this study. For a guide to sex and gender-based analysis, please consult the CIHR website. Also describe how sex and/or gender considerations will be considered within the research design or provide a robust justification if it is exceptionally not applicable (limit of 2000 characters, including spaces).

Note: Please note that it is important to justify if a research proposal exceptionally lacks sex and gender considerations.

Period of Support Requested

Indicate the period of support required. The CIHR Strategic Master's Award program duration of award is one year.

Proposed Start Date

Please indicate the date for which funding for the research project/program would begin (funding start date must be within proposed start dates specified under the "Conditions of Funding" of the funding opportunity although project/program may have already started).

Percentage of Time Spent on Different Activities

Indicate the percentage of time to be spent on different activities. NPAs are expected to spend at least 75% of their time in the proposed research training (Research + Course work) throughout the duration of the graduate studies.

Summary of the research project is written by:

Select all option(s) that applies.

Language in which proposal is written in:

Select the appropriate language.

Descriptors

Provide keywords that describe the research project, the techniques and the methodologies it will employ, as well as the areas of interest.

Areas of Research

Select the areas of research that best describe the proposal from the list provided.

Classification

Select the classifications that best describe the proposal from the list provided.

Themes

Select a primary theme classification. Indicate additional theme classifications only if the substance of the application significantly overlaps more than one theme. Consult the definition of the four CIHR Themes on the CIHR website for more information.

Suggested Institutes (Categories)

Select a primary CIHR Institute whose research mandate is related to the application's research area(s) and objective(s). Additional Institutes should only be selected if the substance of the application significantly overlaps with the research mandate of more than one Institute.

Attachments

Research project summary

NOTE: The outline of proposed research and the bibliography and citations must be uploaded as a single document (unprotected) not to exceed 30 MB.

Important: Research proposals written in French will be allowed to submit additional pages, in support of evidence demonstrating that French documents require approximately 20% more space than similar English documents.

The single attachment consists of two separate sections: Outline of proposed research and Bibliography and citations. Each of these sections must be only one page. Pages in excess of the number permitted may be removed before the selection process, and the application may be at a disadvantage as a result.

• Section 1: Outline of proposed research (Maximum 1 page for English applications and a maximum of 1.5 pages for French applications - See General Application Process)

Provide a detailed and specific description of the proposed research project for the period during which the NPA will hold the award in general scientific language. Provide background information to position the proposed research within the context of current knowledge in the field. State the objectives, hypothesis and outline the experimental and/or theoretical approach to be taken (citing literature pertinent to the proposal) and the methods and procedures to be used. State the significance of the proposed research to a field or fields in the health sciences.

If the degree program does not involve a thesis, a major research paper/essay or a major research project, clearly outline the research component of the degree.

Note: If the NPA has not decided on a specific project, it is necessary to provide a detailed description of a proposed research project. If the research direction or activities during the course of the award change refer to the Tri-agency research training award holder's guide.

• Section 2: Bibliography and citations (Maximum 1 page for English applications and a maximum of 1.5 pages for French applications)

Provide a bibliography that includes citations for all works referenced in the research proposal. These citations should be in a format used by the primary discipline of the proposed research. The NPA must ensure that all citations are clear and complete, to allow reviewers to easily locate the sources.

Note: Ideas and text belonging to others must be properly referenced. Include all relevant information in the outline. Do not refer reviewers to URLs or other publications for supplemental information.

Task - Attach Other Application Materials

Letters of Support (Mandatory) – Upload under "Letters of Support"

• Attach two (2) letters of support using the template "Assessment form" (maximum two (2) pages per letter). Note: Failure to use the provided template may negatively impact NPA's applications.
• The letters of support should be completed by individuals who are familiar with the NPAs research and/or other abilities that they can provide a meaningful commentary (for example, current or previous academic research supervisor, industrial supervisor, employment/volunteer supervisor, teacher or thesis advisor). Letters of support will provide information to peer reviewers to assess applications and validate that they meet the evaluation criteria. Refer to Information for Sponsors and revise the best practices and considerations when providing sponsor assessment.
• NPAs must contact proposed references to ensure they are willing to complete an assessment for them well in advance of the application deadline. It is NPA's responsibility to collect these letters from their referees and upload them distinctively as part of their application prior to the deadline.

Task - Attach Other Application Materials

• Other – attach the following under "Other"
  • Label as "SGBA Certificate of Completion" – Mandatory (Maximum 1 page) - NPAs must complete the appropriate CIHR interactive module on sex and gender in research that applies to their research project and attach the certificate of completion. The training module should take approximately 40 minutes to complete. Note: append the document to the application as unsecured PDF copy by using print screen or by scanning the document.
  • Label as "Research Training Environment Support" - (Mandatory Maximum 1 page for English applications and a maximum of 1.5 pages for French applications)
    • Attach one (1) letter containing the signature from the proposed primary supervisor, outlining the space, facilities, funding, mentoring, training, collaborations, and personnel support that is available to the NPA.
      • It should demonstrate the commitment of the proposed primary supervisor and their institution to support the development of the NPA's research project (funding, facilities, equipment, etc.).
      • It should describe how they have the appropriate authority to supervise, and mentor Nominated Principal Applicant and how the primary supervisor will foster an equitable and inclusive relationship for the NPA.
  • Label as "Program of study eligibility" – (Mandatory Maximum 1 page) –
    • Attach the completed form ensuring to provide the following information: (Updated: 2023-12-01)
      • The name of the NPA's master's program, department, and institution.
      • Provide justification of how the selected master's program meets the eligibility requirements (i.e., research component of master's is at minimum 75%).
      • The Primary Supervisor's signature is required. Printed names should always accompany signatures.
      • The following template must be used. Failure to use the provided template may negatively impact NPA's applications.
• Official Transcripts – Upload under "Transcript"
  • NPAs are required to provide the following documents, which must be uploaded as a single PDF document (unprotected) not to exceed 30 MB.
    • (Mandatory) Complete and print the Master's Studies Timelines form.
    • (Mandatory) Up-to-date official transcripts of the NPA's complete academic record (this includes all undergraduate and graduate studies, completed or ongoing). Instructions below must also be followed:
      • One copy of the legend (reverse of each transcript) must be included;
      • Transcript text must be horizontal. Original copies of any uploaded transcripts must be retained since they may be requested by CIHR for verification purposes at any point in the process.

    Note 1: Transcripts printed from the NPA's personal institution account are not accepted.

    Note 2: Up-to-date official transcripts are defined as transcripts issued by the Registrar's Office and dated or issued in the fall session of the year of the application (if currently registered) or after the last term completed (if not currently registered). Opening the envelope to scan the transcript will not render it unofficial for CIHR's purposes.

    Note 3: Certified true copies of official transcripts from the institution are accepted. A certified true copy is defined as a copy of the original document (or of the original translated document if official transcript is not in either English or French).

    Note 4: NPAs registered at an institution that does not provide transcripts must submit, in lieu of a transcript, a letter bearing the official institution seal/stamp or a letter signed by the Dean of Graduate Studies confirming the NPA's program of study, the NPA's registration status, the date of initial registration, the degree obtained or sought and the fact that the institution does not provide transcripts.

Task - Apply to Priority Announcements / Funding Pools (Mandatory)

• The NPA must select at least one and up to three pools of the listed below relevant research areas from the "Priority Announcement/Funding Pool " drop-down list and press "save".
  • Per selected pool, a text box will appear for the NPA to justify and describe how the project of work proposed will address the relevant research area.
    Note: This form will be used along with the proposed research project summary to determine relevance (for each research area selected).
• The NPA may select up to three relevant research areas for the application if this is addressed by the research proposal/program:
  • Pandemic Preparedness and Health Emergencies
    • Note: Applications that address Indigenous health and wellness issues and/or population groups experiencing health inequities are encouraged and must elaborate on the applicant's ability to engage meaningfully and in a culturally safe way with these communities. For example, research designs that incorporate inclusive processes to consult and engage communities and people with lived and/or living experience; for Indigenous Peoples Health, projects must recognize the rights of Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous self-determination and self-governance, such as following the First Nations Principles of OCAP (i.e., Ownership, Control, Access and Possession), the CARE Principles for Indigenous Data Governance, and/or employing a distinctions-based approach (i.e., First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and/or Urban Indigenous community).
  • Computational Biology and Health Data Sciences
  • Sex, Gender and Intersectionality in Health Research
    • Note: NPAs must clearly indicate in the Relevance Form which of the research priority areas listed above they are applying to. Only one trainee per supervisor will be eligible to receive funding.
  • First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis Health
    • Note: NPAs must ensure that their Relevance Form clearly addresses alignment with IIPH mandate and the applicant's experience with and capacity for meaningful and culturally safe involvement of Indigenous Peoples in research.
• Applications will only be considered under the Priority Announcement(s) NPAs have selected as part of their application.

Task – Print Signature Pages

Note: All 3 pages of the document must be uploaded as part of the application prior to submission.

1. Print/ the signature page PDF file which is found on ResearchNet.
2. The Primary Supervisor signature is required. Printed names should always accompany signatures.
3. The signature of individual with signing authority from the Institution Paid is required. Scan and upload the signed signature pages, including the routing slip, as one PDF (Unprotected and not exceeding 30 MB), in the "Print/Upload Signature Pages" task in ResearchNet prior to submitting the application.

Task – Preview

NPAs must review all components of the application. If a section is incomplete, the missing information must be provided to successfully submit the application.

The NPA is responsible for ensuring that the information provided is complete and that it conforms to the application requirements. ResearchNet does not validate the content of the uploaded document(s).

Note: NPAs cannot preview their CCV information through ResearchNet. They must verify the information directly on the CCV portal.

Task - Consent and Submit

NPAs must review the terms listed and respond to the questions regarding consent in order to submit their application.

• NPAs must click Submit to send the application.
• NPAs will receive a confirmation email once their application has been submitted to CIHR.

NPAs must ensure that their application is complete (includes all required signatures) and is submitted on time to CIHR.

• CIHR cannot legally accept an application until the "Consent and Submit" task is completed on ResearchNet.
• In order to ensure fairness in the evaluation of applications, CIHR will not accept updates to applications after the application submission.

Notes

• Review the Acceptable Application Formats and Attachments web page, in addition to referring to the ResearchNet Frequently Asked Questions, as required.
• All documents must be uploaded as unprotected PDF documents and not exceed 30 MB.
• Any other information that exceeds the page/character limits, or is not required, will be removed from the application prior to peer review.
• For the submission of attachments, candidates must use either Arial, Calibri or Times New Roman font size of 12 point, black type (other font may be used, but must be of similar size appearance of those indicated). Maximum of six lines per inch, margin of 2 cm (3/4 inch) – minimum – around the page. Do not use condensed/narrow font sizes or type density. Use a minimum of single line spacing. Do not use narrow line spacing. Smaller text in tables, charts, figures, graphs, and references (format at discretion of candidates) is acceptable, as long as it is legible when the page is viewed at 100%. Note: failure to comply with these requirements can negatively impact the status and evaluation of the application in a competition.
• Applications must be submitted prior to the deadline posted on ResearchNet.
• Incomplete applications will be withdrawn from the competition.
• NPA must ensure that their application is complete (includes all required signatures) and is submitted on time to CIHR.
• CIHR cannot legally accept an application without the "Consent and submit" from the applicant.

Contact Information

For all inquiries, please contact:

CIHR Contact Centre
Telephone: 613-954-1968
Toll Free: 1-888-603-4178
Email: support-soutien@cihr-irsc.gc.ca

For service hours, please consult our Contact us page.

Sponsor Description

Internal Collaborators

Canadian Institutes of Health Research
At the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), we know that research has the power to change lives. As Canada's health research investment agency, we collaborate with partners and researchers to support the discoveries and innovations that improve our health and strengthen our health care system.

Centre for Research on Pandemic Preparedness and Health Emergencies
The Research Centre, which is housed within CIHR, will ensure Canada has an emergency-ready health research system. The Research Centre builds on Canada's research strengths and continues to grow its capacity to be a leader in preventing, preparing for, responding to, and recovering from existing and future pandemics and public health emergencies. It collaborates with other federal departments and agencies, as well as stakeholders domestically and internationally.

CIHR – Institute of Genetics
The Institute of Genetics (IG) supports research on the human and model genomes and on all aspects of genetics, basic biochemistry and cell biology related to health and disease, including the translation of knowledge into health policy and practice, and the societal implications of genetic discoveries.

CIHR – Institute of Gender and Health
The Institute of Gender and Health (IGH)'s mission is to foster research excellence regarding the influence of sex and gender on health and to apply these findings to identify and address pressing health challenges facing men, women, girls, boys and gender-diverse people.

CIHR – Institute of Indigenous Peoples' Health
The Institute of Indigenous Peoples' Health (IIPH) fosters the advancement of a national health research agenda to improve and promote the health of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples in Canada, through research, knowledge translation and capacity building. The Institute's pursuit of research excellence is enhanced by respect for community research priorities and Indigenous knowledges, values and cultures.

Additional Information

Health Emergency

A health emergency is defined as:

• A present or imminent event or phenomenon, of a temporary, acute nature, with actual or potential significant negative impacts on human health, resulting in:
  • A serious disruption of the functioning of a community; and/or
  • The declaration of a state of emergency by a municipal, provincial/territorial, federal and/or Indigenous government, or international organization with a health research mandate, and that;
  • Requires prompt research action to protect and strengthen human health

One Health

One health is defined as:

• An integrated, unifying approach that aims to sustainably balance and optimize the health of people, animals and ecosystems. It recognizes that the health of humans, domestic and wild animals, plants, and the wider environment (including ecosystems) are closely linked and interdependent. While health, food, water, energy and environment are all wider topics with sector-specific concerns, the collaboration across sectors and disciplines contributes to protect health, address health challenges such as the emergence of infectious diseases. By linking humans, animals and the environment, One Health can help to address the full spectrum of disease control – from prevention to detection, preparedness, response and management – and contribute to global health security.

Official Languages

The NPA may submit the application in the official language of their choice.