| 2001 INMHA News
Request for Applications The Institute of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Addiction (INMHA) and its Institute Advisory Board (IAB) are just beginning a Strategic Planning exercise that will culminate with the submission of a Strategic Plan to CIHR Governing Council in October 2001. One of the key elements of the plan will be the development of Strategic Initiatives in research areas considered to be of the highest priority to Canadians suffering from disorders covered by the INMHA. The process of establishing these priorities must be open, transparent and interactive involving all relevant communities of scientists representing the four CIHR pillars (basic, clinical, health services and population health research) and their multitude of partners ( non-governmental agencies or NGOs, consumer groups, provincial governments, industry, etc). Accordingly, individuals or groups, are invited to submit early suggestions for Strategic Initiatives in Neurosciences, Mental Health and Addictions. Strategic Initiatives must be multi-disciplinary by nature (hopefuly involving the 4 pillars), and involve scientists at a variety of Institutions and potentially various CIHR Institutes. Strategic Initiatives should aim at solving or gain a better understanding of a disorder covered by the INMHA or basic brain mechanisms (in a very broad sense) involved in normal functions and should address societal and economic burdens. Initiatives should ultimately lead to prevention or improved care and treatment for Canadians suffering from these diseases. At this early stage (preferably before June 30th, 2001), submissions should include a brief (2-3 pages maximum) description of a potential Strategic Initiative-RFA. The proposal should highlight the rationale for the suggested Strategic Initiative and outline any potential partnerships with other CIHR Institutes, NGO, etc. All proposals will be reviewed by the IAB and those viewed as having the most potential to contribute to the mission of the INMHA will then be considered within the Strategic Planning process and for potential future RFAs. It is expected that only a few Strategic Initiatives will be undertaken by the INMHA at this early stage due to budgetary restrictions. However, as tbe budget increases and by developing funding partnerships with other CIHR Institutes, NGO, Industry, provincial governments and International bodies materializes, new RFAs will be initiated on an annual basis. ''Your participation is important and we need your direct input in order to properly identify the major priorities of our institute. We must do it together if we truly hope to have significant impact on the well-being of Canadians and in order to increase the international visibility of Canadian science in neuroscience, mental health and addiction." Rémi Quirion For more information, please contact Richard Brière, Assistant Director, INMHA at briric@douglas.mcgill.ca |
