Health Research Foundation Seeks Applications

The Nova Scotia Health Research Foundation is seeking applications from interested researchers, the Minister of Health Jamie Muir announced today.

The foundation was established to assist, collaborate with and fund individuals and organizations conducting health research within Nova Scotia. Governed by the Nova Scotia Health Research Foundation Act, enacted on Jan. 1, 2000, it will have a benefit for research programs on disease prevention, treatment and other health areas.

"We are pleased to follow through on our commitment to health-related research in Nova Scotia," said Mr. Muir. "This research foundation, the first of its kind in the province, will help put our health researchers on a level playing field with their counterparts in other areas of the country and will attract specialists to the province. This foundation will benefit all Nova Scotians."

The categories of research funded by the foundation are health services, health outcomes, health public policy as well as medical research which includes basic scientific and biomedical study and clinical and epidemiological investigations.

Research support comes in three different forms. Operating grants, ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, to continue ongoing projects may be awarded. There will also be personnel support provided to graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and research chairs. The third type of funding is in the form of matching grants, available for the 2000-2001 fiscal year only.

"One of the most important benefits of this foundation is that it will encourage and support collaborative research efforts with other centres across Canada," said Mr. Muir.

Detailed program information and application forms are available by contacting the Nova Scotia Health Research Foundation at 902- 422-3279 or at www.nshrf.ns.ca.