New ARC scheme aims to create research networks

The Australian Research Council has launched a new program aimed at encouraging the development of research networks, and fostering interdisciplinary research.

"The program is designed to bring people together," said Prof Alan Johnson, the ARC's executive director of biological science and biotechnology, speaking at this week's ComBio 2003 conference in Melbourne. "The idea is to build focus and scale, getting people to collaborate, cooperate and work together."

As incentive, up to $500,000 per annum for five years will be available to each network.

Unlike the ARC's research and infrastructure funding programs, Johnson said, the new program would be used to assist researchers to coordinate and communicate research activities across disciplinary, organisational, institutional and geographical boundaries.

Highlighting open exchange of information and resource sharing, the program is also intended to assist career development of young investigators and students through development of community and mentoring.

Johnson said the networks would not be restricted to ARC-funded researchers, and would also encourage links to organisations and participants including researchers funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council, CSIRO, the Australian Institute of Marine Science, and the private sector. The ARC was also keen to foster participation by other stakeholders including patient groups, policy makers, and other members of the community with knowledge and skills of interest.

According to Johnson, around 15 networks will be funded, with the call for funding expected to take place at the end of this year, and close of applications in March 2004 for funding to start in July 2004.

Applications for 'seed funding' to perform scoping studies in preparation of network funding applications have recently closed, with about 300 applications received for grants of up to $50,000. Using the seed funding, interested parties can examine the current environment around their field of interest and develop a plan for a network, culminating in a web-published report outlining current and future research directions, proposals and potential national benefits.

Johnson noted that applications for network grants did not require prior seed funding, but would be required to follow the same process.