Call for Applications: Responsive Research Fund for Oral Health Researchers

The Responsive Research Funding Scheme is now open for applications! This scheme has been created to support local research studies linked to the overall aims and objectives of the CORE research programme. Up to £30,000 overall is available for researchers placed in India. Established and early career oral health researchers are encouraged to apply for funding. We will be funding between 3-6 studies through this responsive funding mechanism.

This initiative is designed to support developmental and exploratory research in oral health, with a focus on oral health inequalities, commercial determinants of oral health, and oral health system reform. This scheme is part of the Project CORE programme, the details of which can be accessed at: https://thecoreprogramme.co.uk/

Eligibility criteria and funding details

• Total funding available is £30,000. 5-6 research rewards totalling this amount will be allocated so the studies should be budgeted accordingly.
• Designed for early to mid-career researchers
• Projects should be completed within 12 months
• Open to established and early career researchers
• Prior research experience is required
• Early career researchers should demonstrate documented support from senior colleagues from their institution or elsewhere
• Ethical approval must already be obtained for any study involving human participants

Research Scope

Research Projects That Will Be Supported

The Responsive Research Fund is intended to support developmental and exploratory research that aligns with the CORE programme’s focus areas. Projects eligible for funding may include, but are not limited to:

• Feasibility or Pilot Studies – Research projects that test the feasibility of a study design, methodology, or intervention.
• Exploratory Research – Studies that generate preliminary data, insights, or findings to inform larger, future research projects in the field of oral health.
• Development of Local Research Networks – Initiatives that facilitate collaboration among researchers, community stakeholders, and policymakers to strengthen oral health research capacity within the country.

Application Process

Applicants must submit a structured application detailing their research plan, budget justification, and community engagement strategy (if applicable). A review panel will assess submissions based on scientific merit, feasibility, and alignment with CORE programme objectives.

Key Dates:

• Launch Date: 10^thMarch 2025
• Application Deadline: 10^thApril 2025
• Funding Decisions: End April 2025
• Projects Start: 1st June 2025

How to Apply

• Submit your CV along with a completed application form via email to amit.singh@phfi.org with the subject line: “Application for Responsive Research Fund – Project CORE”.

The link to access application form: RRF Application Form.docx

• If you have any queries regarding the scheme, please contact Prof. Manu Raj Mathur at manu.mathur@phfi.org