DISCOV3R Focus Grants
The purpose of the DISCOV3R Program is to investigate Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) as a sustainable long-term testing solution for COVID-19.‘3R’ refers to the three streams of the Program: Reassure; Reclaim; and Repurpose.
This Program aims to take a holistic approach to the use of RATs in the detection of COVID-19 infection, which includes their effective use, shelf life and responsible disposal.
The Activity must align with one of the 3R streams:
- Reassure
Research into the accuracy and sensitivity of RATs in detecting emerging COVID-19 variants. High quality applications to this stream will demonstrate an accurate and repeatable methodology for assessing RATs, a feasible plan for accessing and testing COVID-19 variant samples, and a competitive budget.
- Reclaim
Research into the expiry dates of RATs to determine shelf-life validity, factors impacting shelf-life and whether RATs can be used to diagnose COVID-19 beyond the stated shelf-life. High quality applications to this stream will demonstrate an accurate and repeatable methodology for assessing RATs, a robust and thorough plan for testing variables that may affect shelf life, and a competitive budget.
- Repurpose
Identify opportunities for re-purposing of RATs that are beyond their shelf-life, for example for research use for COVID-19 and/or other coronavirus diseases. High quality applications to this stream will identify and test innovative and significant uses for RATs.
Funding between $100,000 and $350,000 will be awarded to the top-ranked application in each stream. Subject to budget availability and the quality of applications received, additional applications may be awarded funding.
Program status: Open for Applications
Minimum Data Form due: 1:00pm (AWST), Thursday 23 March 2023
Application Form due: 1:00 pm (AWST), Thursday 6 April 2023
The DISCOV3R Focus Grants Guidelines and Conditions, Minimum Data Form and Application Form can be accessed below:
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Any queries related to the program can be directed to the Western Australian Department of Health, Office of Medical Research and Innovation.
Information on other FHRI Fund programs can be accessed by subscribing to updates or checking the FHRI Fund current opportunities.