Historically, funding of medical research in Australia has been determined by outputs – research papers, citations and validated by scientific peer review.
Whilst these factors are important, the advancement of innovation, the formation of collaborations and the ability to deliver impact are the outcomes NFMRI’s funding delivers. To maximise impact, NFMRI focuses on advancing innovation. By looking outwards and supporting the gaps along the innovation pathway and applying resources, networks and knowledge, NFMRI helps philanthropy make a difference.
NFMRI supports medical research in three key gap areas we call social investment portfolios:
Original innovation and discovery not competitive for NHMRC grants. Young researchers, early discoveries and new paradigms that need support to become competitive and stand on their own two feet.
Support for strategic collaborative research activities focused on advancing research and validating directions. Providing access to the additional research skills not available through currently available funding.
Often referred to as the “valley of death”, this is the area where research is required to attract and compete for potential investors and collaborators. Funding mechanisms often do not support or encourage contract research activities necessary to answer critical research questions.
