(Halifax, NS) Research Nova Scotia (RNS) is announcing the launch of Focused Research Investments (FRI), a new initiative created to tackle the salient issues of our time using a mission-oriented approach while providing the funding and resources required to meet specific outcomes. A budget of $25 million will be dedicated to FRI.
“Research Nova Scotia developed and launched Focused Research Investments to pursue discovery on important matters that is timely, relevant, and actionable for those who need to use it,” says Stefan Leslie, CEO of Research Nova Scotia.
FRI resources will be directed to research to achieve tangible outcomes in key areas vital to the province’s future and will address a gap in our current research support system by providing substantial, secure, and flexible funding so teams can tackle important Nova Scotia challenges.
RNS will select two or three research teams to receive $5 to $20 million over 5 to 7 years. Funds can be used for personnel, equipment, infrastructure, projects and/or operating costs.
“We seek researchers driven to work in service of society: those who search for answers to society’s most urgent questions, asking what is needed and crafting their research to respond. Research produces knowledge, but that is not enough: for FRI, what we solve matters more than what we learn,” says Leslie.
RNS is seeking Expressions of Interest from researchers looking to devote their expertise in service to their community, improving policy, and/or creating economic opportunity. Expressions of Interest close April 29th, 2024, at 1p.m. Learn more and apply at researchns.ca/FRI.
Quotes:
“The FRI initiative is a rare opportunity for researchers to invest in their communities and create a future with genuine impact. It’s more than a project; it’s a commitment to building a thriving Nova Scotia that draws in those hungry for purpose and connection. I think this is a unique chance for individuals to contribute to a meaningful and tangible future.”
Melissa Flagg, former Deputy Assistant U.S. Secretary of Defense for Research.
“Research Nova Scotia’s focus on tackling provincial challenges is inspiring. The strength of this approach is the call for civic-driven research teams, emphasis on partnerships for effective solutions, addressing broad social issues, and the well-crafted, reassuring position paper. The FRI initiative positions us globally, appealing to both grant writers and public-minded philanthropists. Well done.”
Dr. Kenneth Rockwood, 2021 recipient of the Ryman Prize.
Resources:
- Beyond Research Podcast (Audio & Video)
- FRI One-Pager
- FRI Infographic
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About Research Nova Scotia
Research Nova Scotia supports, organizes, and coordinates research. With the curiosity to imagine a better world, and the determination to make it real, we champion the people and resources needed to improve the lives of Nova Scotians. Learn more about our research missions at researchns.ca.
Media Contact
Laken Crowell
Marketing & Communications Officer
Research Nova Scotia
(902) 306-9513 | laken.crowell@researchns.ca