UQ - Sanofi Translational Science Hub Partnership Scheme
Key Dates
- Round Opens 20 February 2024
- Information Session: 27 February 2024 9-10am in the AIBN seminar room (75-132). The session recording is available here - please navigate to UQ internal schemes.
- Expressions of Interest Close: 31 March 2024 (round 1), 30 June 2024 (round 2), 30 September 2024 (round 3).
- Anticipated announcement: within three months of the closing date of each round
Overview
The University of Queensland, Griffith University and Sanofi have formed a foundational partnership called the Translational Science Hub (TSH) with a focus on mRNA-based vaccine therapeutics innovation and translation with a long-term view to collectively catalyse the growth of Queensland’s biomedical ecosystem.
The Master Research Agreement between the foundational partners UQ, Griffith University and Sanofi creates express provisions for the funding of projects that fulfil the primary objectives of the partnership and address both Queensland and Sanofi priority areas. These are broadly focused on mRNA-based approaches to the development of vaccines and therapeutics (https://www.sanofi.com/en/australia/translational-science-hub.
The funding set aside for supporting innovative projects that advance the vaccines and therapeutics pipeline comprise an initial investment over the first five years of the agreement of up to $10 million from each university and co-investment by Sanofi determined on a project-by-project basis.
Expressions of Interest (EOIs) are now open for the distribution of these funds. A two-stage application process will comprise submission of an EOI and following discussion with Sanofi, a full project proposal. The intention is to turn around decisions on the award of funding within 3 months from the original EOI submission.
There are four streams of University-Sanofi collaborative activities that have been identified with funding support available, pending review, to support research activities aligned to the priority areas of the partnership:
- Stream 1 TSH Partnership Seed Funding provides direct support for research projects at the proof-of-concept and pre-clinical stage that align with the objectives of the TSH partnership.
- Stream 2 TSH Co-Investment for External Grant Opportunities provides cash contributions to competitive research grants that align with the objectives of the TSH partnership e.g. funding opportunities from national (NHMRC, MRFF and ARC) and international schemes (Wellcome Trust, Gates Foundation etc).
- Stream 3 TSH Fellowships/Scholarships provides direct funding for EMCRs and HDR students for projects that align with the objectives of the partnership. Support will be provided for both internal schemes and leveraging external funding opportunities.
- Stream 4 TSH Research Contracts will primarily involve Sanofi funded fee-for-service work utilizing UQ expertise and capability. UQ funding may be available to support this work depending on return on investment for UQ and on a case-by-case basis.
How to apply:
- Step 1: Submit your EOI online.
- Step 2: EOIs will be reviewed by Sanofi Engagement Managers.
- Step 3: Shortlisted EOIs will be invited to meet with Sanofi engagement managers to develop a full proposal.
- Step 4: Submit your full proposal via email to internalschemes@research.uq.edu.au
- Step 5: Full applications will be reviewed by the Steering Committee and a ranked list will be provided to the DVCRI for funding recommendations.