Sponsor

Ontario Genomics

Program

Indigenous Genomics Training and Capacity

For More Information

Please visit Ontario Genomics' Indigenous Genomics Training and Capacity Program website [1]. 

Description

The road to reconciliation is a long path that hasn’t traditionally included the field of science. But a new funding opportunity is looking to create space for Indigenous people and perspectives in genomics.

The Indigenous Genomics Training and Capacity program is designed to strengthen First Nations (status and non-status), Métis and Inuit technical, social scientific and community capacities to engage with and conduct genomics research in ways that uphold and advance Indigenous rights to self-determination.

The program will provide Indigenous-led training opportunities for Indigenous students and community practitioners, equipping them with genomic skills and capabilities that integrate Indigenous knowledge systems, values and perspectives with modern science, technology and social scientific critique. It will foster the exploration of the intersections between Indigenous ways of knowing and practices, and disciplines such as genomics, environmental science and other scientific and technological fields.

Primary objectives of this funding program:

• Building Indigenous capacity in genomics
• Promoting career development
• Integrating Indigenous knowledge and perspectives
• Advancing Indigenous self-determination
• Fostering interdisciplinary exploration

Eligibility

• The project must be Indigenous-led and actively engaged with Indigenous communities.
• Project leaders and team members must be affiliated with an eligible institution.

Funding Availability

• A maximum of $400,000 is available from Genome Canada.
• Funding will be allocated to up to two (2) projects.
• Funded projects will have a maximum term of three (3) years.
• Co-funding is not required but is encouraged.

Indirect Costs

0% for funding requested from Genome Canada. Indirect costs apply to any partner cash contribution. Please contact research.services@uoguelph.ca [2] for more details. 

How to Apply

The Indigenous Genomics Training and Capacity program will include a one stage application process. Applicants are required to apply through Genome Canada’s Proposal Central Portal through a regional Genome Centre. In the application, applicants will be required to briefly describe: 

• How the proposed project will contribute to building Indigenous capacity in genomics.
• How the project will support Indigenous career development and transition into independent research roles.
• How the project will integrate Indigenous knowledge systems, values and perspectives.
• How the project will promote Indigenous self-determination in genomics research.
• The management plan and team, and their roles in the project, including project leadership and oversight.
• The project budget.
• The project co-funding plan (if applicable). 

Full applications submitted will undergo an internal eligibility check by Genome Canada. An independent peer review of the proposals received will be completed by a small panel of diverse and independent experts.