Your guide to applying for research funding
> Overview
> Preliminary Research Proposals (PRPs)
> Full Research Proposals (FRPs)
> Travel and conference funding
> Key dates
> For further information
Overview
The Australian Egg Corporation Limited (AECL) is inviting submissions of preliminary research proposals (PRPs) and Full Research Proposals for funding to commence in the 2011-12 financial year. All research proposals must address AECL's Research, Development and Extension priorities. These can be downloaded and viewed via this link: AECL RD&E strategy priorities 2012 .
The strategies and priorities can also be viewed on the About RD&E page of this website.
In essence, AECL is looking for proposals that address the key desired outcomes of:
• improving the profitability of egg production systems
• providing health and nutritional information for consumers
• and ensuring the sustainability of egg production.
Please read the guidelines carefully, to ensure that your proposal meets our needs and expectations.
Preliminary Research Proposals (PRPs)
Preliminary Research Proposals (PRPs) must be in the correct format, should not exceed two pages in length and should not be accompanied by additional supporting information. Proposals should clearly and concisely identify the expected outcomes of proposed projects. In essence, applicants should show why their proposal represents a sound investment for AECL's stakeholders. PRPs will be assessed against formal selection criteria as detailed in the application guidelines.
If a researcher is applying for support from two or more R&D Corporations, the most appropriate ‘lead' Corporation should be determined, and the research submission prepared in the way advised by that Corporation. If AECL is being asked to finance more than 50 per cent of the project, we should be considered the lead Corporation.
AECL does not usually approve projects for longer than five years. However, we recognise that some work takes more time and follow-up projects can be anticipated. AECL will also consider support for short-term activities that seek to prepare the ground for subsequent longer-term proposals.
Full Research Proposals (FRPs)
(By invitation in February and due on 26th March 2012)
If a preliminary research proposal is considered a priority and the industry benefits are clear, AECL will send an invitation to submit a Full Research Proposal. Support for new projects can commence in or after July 2011. Projects must finish at least three month before the end of a financial year.
AECL manages investment funds for the Australian egg industry and the Australian community. Its primary responsibility is to invest those funds in a manner that offers the best return on the investment. Allowing for its obligations to community interests, AECL's objectives are essentially commercial.
Many R&D investments involve long lead times, only modest chances of success, slow rates of adoption, and the risk that any breakthrough may be as valuable to competitors as to the targeted industries. All of these factors are taken into account when assessing an R&D proposal. Applicants are asked to show within full research proposals why their project represents a sound investment opportunity for the industry.
Travel and conference funding
AECL support is also available all year round for travel/conference funding. Please contact Dr Angus Crossan, Program Manager - R&D by email or by phone on 02 9409 6908.
Key dates
| Activity | Date |
| Call for preliminary research (PRPs) | September 2011 |
| Deadline for PRPs | 14th November 2011 |
| Advice on PRPs/invitations for full research proposals (FRPs) | 3rd February 2012 |
| Deadline for FRPs | 26th March 2011 |
| Advice on research proposals | June 2012 |
| Commencement of research contracts | July 2012 - onwards Dec 2012 |
| Travel Requests | All year (min 3 months notice) |
For further information
To find out more, please contact Dr Angus Crossan, Program Manager - R&D by email or by phone on 02 9409 6908.