Call for Proposals: 2021 Gairdner Programming in Quebec

Science themed pattern

The Gairdner Foundation in partnership with FRQ-S have an established fund for the promotion of science culture and achievement in the province of Quebec. We are issuing an open call to all scientific organizations, research institutions and universities in the fields of human biology and medicine for events to be held in 2021.

Events should be unique, free or low cost to attendees, and represent the Gairdner dedication to excellence in research. We strongly encourage online engagement and will also provide in-kind communications assistance. French, English and bilingual programs are all eligible for this call.

This program is not intended to support annual meetings, administrative costs or as a research grant of any kind.

There are three streams that can be applied to:

Talent Development Stream (Up to $5,000)

Programs that reach out to high school and undergraduate students to inspire the next generation of scientists and innovators. Potential programs could include competitions, guest speakers or student conferences.

Celebrating Excellence Stream  (Up to $25,000)

Programs that focus on recent scientific advances and bring extraordinary international science to Quebec, while highlighting the excellence of Quebec researchers. Potential programs would largely be stand-alone scientific symposia on a current and growing area of human biology and medicine. We encourage the inclusion of public and student engagement at these events as well.

Public Engagement Stream (Up to $15,000)

Programs that bring extraordinary science into the public discourse and interest, targeting a lay audience and a range of possible stakeholders. Potential programs could include public lectures, town hall events and panel discussions.

Application Process

Applicants much recognize the program as a Gairdner Event, and uphold the Foundation’s policies of responsibility, leadership and equity. Programs will be developed in consultation with Gairdner staff and we strongly encourage the inclusion of Gairdner Laureates and representatives where possible and appropriate. The overall fund will be divided among selected proposals at the discretion of the Gairdner Foundation.

Minimum funding requests should be at the $2,500 level to ensure proposals that are robust, inclusive and reach a significant audience. They also must include a proposed budget of how the funds will be spent. There will be a post-event reporting requirement.

Guidelines

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis between September 1, 2020 and September 1, 2021 We require that all proposals be submitted no less than 12 weeks prior to the proposed event date. Decisions will be provided to applicants within 4 weeks of submission. Submissions will be evaluated by a panel of Canadian researchers with a wide range of expertise and familiarity with the Canadian and Quebec research environments.

In striving to award scientific excellence and to inspire those who follow, Gairdner embraces diverse perspectives in research. Throughout all activities associated with the Canada Gairdner Awards program and associated Canadian and Global outreach programs, Gairdner strives to engage and promote the active participation of individuals of diverse backgrounds and abilities.

Contact Sarah Devonshire for any inquiries at sarah@gairdner.org