Dear colleagues,
To complement a series of meetings and discussions with stakeholders at campuses across Canada, NSERC continues to consult with the research community on the future support of the Research Tools and Instruments (RTI) Grants Program in light of reductions in available program funding.
I would like to take this opportunity to remind you that our Connect with NSERC consultation page is live and includes a link to a survey with questions about two options for the future of the program. I have also attached a document that outlines each option so that you may print and circulate as required.
Until September 28, 2012, the research community is invited to provide input on two alternate delivery mechanisms for the support of tools and instruments. In either scenario, the expected total amount of available funding is $6 million to $10 million annually.
The outcome of these consultations will shape how future investments in support of tools and instruments are made, and would be in effect for the 2014 competition. The primary objective of using the funds towards the purchase or development of research equipment, to foster and enhance discovery and the training capability of university researchers in the natural sciences and engineering, will remain.
We appreciate your continued support as we work to share more information with the research community. Please circulate this information to faculty members and colleagues on your campus who may be interested in reviewing the options for the RTI Grants Program and helping to shape its future.
Sincerely,
Blair Dickerson
Vice-President, External Relations and Communications Directorate
NSERC
