Request for Applications: SAMRC Extramural Research Units

This RFA is an open call for researchers engaged in health research from all recognised South African research institutions for the establishment of new SAMRC Extramural Research Units (EMUs). These new EMUs should provide scientific leadership in key research areas and conduct research where important research questions cannot easily be addressed through short-term grants.

Funding Opportunity Description

This RFA is seeking to fund applications that allow the SAMRC to address certain priority areas to contribute to the overall vision of the SAMRC. Therefore, in addition to scientific merit, the process will take into account considerations of gender parity, priority research areas as well as geographical representation.

Sex/gender

The SAMRC recognises the importance of fostering sex/gender equity in all areas of opportunity. In alignment with this commitment, we encourage applications from individuals who are historically underrepresented in this context.

Research priorities

Preference will be given to applications that demonstrate that their proposed research addresses priority public health challenges, innovative solutions, and emerging issues in the health fields. These can include but are not limited to the following:

• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
• Digital Health
• Climate Change and One Health
• Indigenous Knowledge Systems
• Food security
• Aging Populations
• Regenerative Medicine and Tissue Engineering
• Health Policy Research

Geographical Representation

We aim to foster equity in research and create opportunities for researchers from all geographic areas to contribute to SAMRC’s health research agenda. We strongly encourage applications from researchers based in underrepresented provinces and regions.

The funding for the EMUs represents a secure, discretionary, financial incentive which is approved in 5-year cycles, for a maximum of 15-years depending on performance and should facilitate efforts to leverage external research funding. It is expected that institutional co-funding and the sum of external grants should exceed the amount invested in the EMU by the SAMRC by several-fold. Becoming an EMU also provides research institutions with the opportunity to contribute to the development of the next generation of research leaders.

This call involves a two-stage application process. The first stage will involve an Express of Interest (EOI), and the second stage will involve submission of a Full Application

For more information and to apply: Request for Application.

FOR FURTHER QUERIES

Dr Refiloe Eunice Zwane
Vice President’s Office
Email: EMUApplications@mrc.ac.za
Tel: +27 12 3398576