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Guidelines and Evaluation Criteria for Position Papers …
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Created: Fri Nov 9 10:50:05 2007
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Guidelines
and Evaluation Criteria
for Position Papers
November 2007
150 Metcalfe Street, Suite 2100
Ottawa, ON K2P 1P1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 Objectives of Genome Canada............................................................................. 3
2 Background .......................................................................................................... 3
3 Position Papers .................................................................................................... 4
4 Submission and Evaluation Procedures ............................................................... 5
4.1 Time Line ................................................................................................... 5
4.2 Who Can Submit........................................................................................ 6
4.3 Expression of Interest (EOI)....................................................................... 6
4.4 Position Paper Process.............................................................................. 7
4.4.1 Fact Finding .................................................................................... 7
4.4.2 Consultation / Workshops ............................................................... 8
4.4.3 Writing............................................................................................. 8
4.4.4 Submission ..................................................................................... 8
4.5 Evaluation of Position Papers .................................................................... 8
5 Funding ................................................................................................................ 9
6 For More Information ............................................................................................ 9
Appendix A Evaluation Criteria................................................................................... 10
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Genome Canada is a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to developing and implementing a
national strategy in genomics and proteomics research for the benefit of all Canadians. By
means of investments totalling $700 million to date from the Government of Canada,
Genome Canada has become the primary funding and information resource relating to
genomics and proteomics research in Canada and has established six Genome Centres
across the country (Altantic, Québec, Ontario, Prairie, Alberta and British Columbia).
1 OBJECTIVES OF GENOME CANADA
· Develop and implement a coordinated strategy for genomics and proteomics
research to enable Canada to be among the world leaders in areas such as
agriculture, environment, forestry, fisheries, animal & human health and new
technology development.
· Support large-scale genomics and proteomics research projects of strategic
importance to Canada, which are beyond current capacities, by bringing together
industry, governments, universities, research hospitals and the public.
· Provide accessibility to Science & Technology Platforms to researchers in all
genomics and proteomics related areas through 6 regional Genome Centres
across Canada.
· Sustain leadership in research areas on Ethical, Environmental, Economic, Legal
and Social issues related to genomics and proteomics research (GE3LS), and
promote the communication of the relative risks, rewards and successes of
genomics and proteomics research to the Canadian public.
· Leverage the Government of Canada investments with other Partners to foster
the translation of research results into applications that will benefit Canadian
economy or society.
2 BACKGROUND
The first Request for Position Papers was initiated in the fall of 2006. From this first
priority-setting process two of eleven submitted position papers were chosen for
inclusion in Genome Canada's Strategic Research Portfolio for 2007-08:
1. Crop Genomics for a Healthy Canada, and
2. Securing Canada's future bio-based economy through genomics
Copies of these position papers may be viewed at
http://positionpapers.genomecanada.ca
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The following nine position papers developed in the last cycle will remain part of the
process unless Genome Canada is informed of their withdrawal.
Theme Title of Position Paper
Agriculture Animals Aquatic and Terrestrial Animal Genomics
Diagnostics Molecular Diagnostics for Canadians
Disease Mechanisms Disease Mechanisms Genomics
Ecosystem Health in Response to
EnviroGenomics and Ecosystem Health
Change, and Environmental Monitoring
Life Sciences Innovation in Canada: New
GE3LS Policy and Knowledge Transfer
Metrics, Methods and Models for Success
Reducing Chronic Diseases in Canada by
Nutrigenomics
Linking Genomics with Nutrition
Optimization of Therapies and Drug OPTICS: Canadian Model for Optimization
Optimization of Therapeutics
Predisposition to Disease Genetic Predisposition to Disease
Sustaining and Enhancing Productivity of Productivity in an Era of Accelerated
Crop, Forest and Ocean Industries Environmental Change (PEAEC)
The leaders of these position papers may choose to revise the position paper, step
down as leaders, or they may choose to withdraw the position paper. Funding will be
made available for those who wish to revise their paper. Leaders who wish to restart
the entire consultation process, including a national workshop, must advise Genome
Canada by January 4, 2008.
3 POSITION PAPERS (PRIORITY-SETTING PROCESS)
Genome Canada is leading its second round of priority-setting designed to identify
Strategic Research Themes that will have the capacity to generate socio-economic
benefits for the Canadian public. The process has been initiated by the Request for
Position Papers (RFPP - November 2007). For further background reading, please
refer to the November 2007 RFPP available on Genome Canada's web site
(http://positionpapers.genomecanada.ca).
The first step in the process is the submission of Expressions of Interest (EOIs), by
proposed theme leaders who will drive the process and be responsible for delivering the
position papers. The EOIs will identify Strategic Research Themes that focus on
Canadian S&T strengths, and on the likelihood of generating near to medium term
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(~ 5 to 10 years) socio-economic outputs, outcomes and impacts on the sector or
discipline covered by the theme. Each chosen Strategic Research Theme will be
further developed through a position paper.
Note that since Genome Canada's Strategic Research Investment Portfolio for 2007-08
includes position papers in the areas of agriculture plants and bioproducts, additional
EOIs in these areas will not be considered in this round.
A position paper must describe a Strategic Research Theme that is national in scope,
focuses on Canadian S&T strengths, and addresses problems of major importance. It
must describe how the application of genomics, or allied `omics,' research to an
identified biological problem is likely to provide a solution that could be translated into
applications that will benefit Canadians (health, wealth and wellbeing) within the near to
medium term. Themes in the areas of ethical, environmental, economic, legal and
social impacts of genomics (GE3LS) research will be welcome.
It should be noted that leaders of Strategic Research Themes and position papers will
be required to spend a significant portion of their time over a period of at least six
months championing their proposed research theme, and bringing together researchers
to coordinate the writing of the position paper. It should also be understood that
researchers involved in the position paper process will not be accorded any advantage
over other applicants in future competitions for funding.
In July and August 2008, completed position papers will be reviewed and prioritized by
an International Review Committee for recommendations on which position papers
should be included in the Genome Canada Strategic Research Investment Portfolio, a
detailed investment proposal intended for submission to the Federal Government in the
fall of 2008. Funding received from the Federal Government as a result of this exercise
will be earmarked for the successful themes and these themes will provide the
foundation for subsequent Requests for Applications (RFAs).
4 SUBMISSION AND EVALUATION PROCEDURES
4.1 Time Line
Nov 5, 2007 Announcement of process
Nov 12, 2007 Dec 14, 2007 Submission of Expressions of Interest (EOIs)
Dec 14, 2007 Closing-date for submission of EOIs
Jan 11, 2008 Closing-date for posting comments on-line
End Jan 2008 Announcement of Strategic Research Themes
Feb 20, 2008 First Information Session (Ottawa)
Apr 16, 2008 Second Information Session (Ottawa)
May 26, 2008 June 6, 2008 National Workshops (Ottawa)
July 4, 2008 Deadline for submission of position papers
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Early-Sep 2008 Meeting of the International Review Panel
September 18, 2008 Recommendation of Review Panel to Board of
Directors for decisions
Fall 2008 Creation of Strategic Research Investment
Portfolio and submission to the Federal Government
4.2 Who Can Submit
Genome Canada will accept EOIs from researchers from all Canadian academic
institutions, government laboratories, companies, and research institutes. Scientists
who may be taking up substantive positions in Canada in the near future are
encouraged to consider participation in the process, but should contact Genome
Canada in the first instance.
4.3 Expression of Interest (EOI)
The first step in the process is the submission of an Expression of Interest (EOI). EOIs
will be accepted from November 12, 2007 to December 14, 2007. The EOI must be
supported by a regional Genome Centre. EOIs that satisfy the basic eligibility criteria
(see Appendix A) will be made public through posting on the Genome Canada website
(http://positionpapers.genomecanada.ca). The web site will be the vehicle for the
dissemination of information to all interested individuals. In addition to viewing the
EOIs, the web site will allow readers to post a comment on an EOI.
Each EOI must be presented on the form available on the Genome Canada website and
include the following:
1. Title of proposed theme
2. Name, address and contact information of proposed leader(s) (a maximum of two
leaders may be listed)
3. Date of submission
4. Discussion of the scientific basis of the research and the `omics' tools to be
applied.
5. The importance of the problem(s) to be tackled and the expected socio-economic
outputs, outcomes and impacts on the sector or discipline covered by the themes
in the near to medium term (~ 5-10 years).
6. Discussion of the current state of the science in Canada and internationally,
demonstrating an awareness and experience of current progress.
7. Discussion of the infrastructure and human resources capacity available in
Canada to undertake the research required
8. Proposed process to develop a position paper, including methods to be used to
ensure inclusiveness in the consultation process, timeline and resources
required.
After the deadline date of December 14, 2007, EOIs will be assessed for their eligibility
to be developed into Position Papers. Particular regard will be given to whether or not
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they describe a strategic research theme that could support a competitive call for
applications. EOIs that are judged to describe a research proposal of only limited
general application will be disqualified and not considered further.
Although ideally, all EOIs that fulfill the eligibility criteria to move to the position paper
process (see section B in Appendix A) would move forward, no more than 15 Strategic
Research Themes can be developed into position papers at one time. Therefore,
depending upon the number of eligible EOIs received, it may be necessary to prioritize
them using external advisors.
Note that the Strategic Research Themes that go forward may not match the EOI titles
as originally submitted since some EOIs covering related sectors or disciplines may be
merged to form broader themes. The authors of EOIs merged into a broader Strategic
Research Theme will be invited to identify appropriate `group' leader(s).
By the end of January, 2008 the analysis of all EOIs will be completed and authors will
be informed of which Strategic Research Themes will go forward.
If, at any time during the process, it is determined that an EOI does not satisfy the
eligibility criteria as defined in Appendix A, Genome Canada will NOT accept the EOI
into the position paper process.
4.4 Position Paper Process
The Strategic Research Themes must be national in scope and encompass an
understanding and evaluation of related work being done internationally. Key
responsibilities of the Genome Centres will be to help make contacts, identify
appropriate participants to ensure inclusiveness, and find support (including potential
co-funding) at the regional level for these national efforts. Each Strategic Research
Theme must be supported by a Genome Centre. The primary supporting Centre will
administer the funding allocated to the theme, however, all Genome Centers will work
cooperatively with each other and with Genome Canada to ensure that the consultation
processes are national in scope.
Genome Canada will play a coordinating role in the process, ensuring that the principles
of openness and inclusiveness are respected.
4.4.1 Fact Finding
Theme leaders should begin the process by identifying other Canadian researchers
working on the proposed Strategic Research Theme in other related sectors or
disciplines where expertise will be required to ensure that the position paper will be
informed by the most appropriate experts. Researchers who have registered their
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support for the EOI will serve as a starting point for the identification of interested
participants. Other research, such as literature searches or market analyses, may also
be required.
4.4.2 Consultation / Workshops
It is expected that leaders of the new themes will choose to hold a national workshop
and bring together interested stakeholders to elucidate the goals of the position paper
and build consensus on the actions that should be undertaken to meet these goals.
Specific guidelines for the conduct of national workshops are available on the Genome
Canada website at http://positionpapers.genomecanada.ca. Workshops are tentatively
scheduled to be held in Ottawa between May 26, 2008 and June 6, 2008. These dates
are provisional and Genome Canada would like to be informed of any significant
clashes with international meetings that might adversely affect attendance.
4.4.3 Writing
Position papers are expected to be brief (no more than 10 pages of descriptive text,
excluding a one page executive summary, diagrams, tables, citations and
acknowledgements. Maximum 3500 word count.), must expand the contents of the EOI
and address the review criteria described in Appendix A. In addition, the estimated total
funding required over a four-year period along with possible co-funding sources must be
included. Position papers must be submitted in English.
4.4.4 Submission
The deadline date for submission of position papers is July 4, 2008. The prioritization
process will be completed by September 2008. Acceptance of a position paper by
Genome Canada should not be construed as a guarantee of inclusion in Genome
Canada's Strategic Research Investment Portfolio. It should also be understood that
while theme leaders might be principal applicants in future competitions funded through
this process, being a theme leader will not guarantee or confer any advantage in
subsequent competitions for funds.
4.5 Evaluation of Position Papers
A multidisciplinary review panel comprised of international scientific, GE3LS and
financial and management experts will meet in the summer of 2008 to review the
completed position papers submitted in July 2008. The panel will evaluate and prioritize
each position paper taking into consideration the evaluation criteria presented in
Appendix A.
The review panel's recommendations will be submitted to the Board of Directors of
Genome Canada in September 2008. The Board of Directors will make the final
decision on the prioritization of position papers for the purpose of inclusion in the
Strategic Research Investment Portfolio.
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Genome Canada may adjust the evaluation process where warranted by the complexity
of the proposals or other relevant factors. Any adjustments will be rapidly
communicated through Genome Canada's website and through the Genome Centres.
5 FUNDING
For each approved theme, funding will be made available from Genome Canada to
support the process of developing each position paper. On January 24, 2008, a
maximum of $15,000 for each position paper will be made available through the lead
Genome Centre to be used at the discretion of the chosen theme leader(s) towards any
direct costs related to the position paper process, with the exception of salary costs for
the theme leaders. Examples of eligible costs include:
· Literature search
· Administrative support and supplies
· A writers' meeting (where there is more than one author)
· Market studies
· Teleconferences
In addition, Genome Canada will coordinate and fund all national workshops. These
thematic workshops are provisionally scheduled between May 26, 2008 and June 6,
2008 at the same location in Ottawa to assist those who may be participating in more
than one workshop as well as to minimize costs. The specific dates for each thematic
workshop will be made available at a later date.
6 FOR MORE INFORMATION
Queries should be directed to:
Dr. Michael J. Morgan
Chief Scientific Officer
Genome Canada
150 Metcalfe Street, Suite 2100
Ottawa (ON) K2P 1P1
Tel: (613) 796-1230
mmorgan@genomecanada.ca
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APPENDIX A ELIGIBILITY AND EVALUATION CRITERIA
A Eligibility Criteria for Posting Expressions of Interest (EOI) on
the Web Site
The Primary objective is to enable Genome Canada to raise funds to
create new research funding opportunities. Bear in mind that
successful themes will be translated into specific Requests For
Applications (RFAs).
EOIs must, therefore, describe Strategic Research Themes that are
national in scope, focus on Canadian S&T strengths, and address
problems of major importance. They must describe how the
application of genomics, or allied `omics,' research to an identified
biological problem is likely to provide a solution that could be
translated into applications that will benefit Canadians (health, wealth
and wellbeing) in the near to medium term. Themes in the areas of
ethical, environmental, economic, legal and social impacts of
genomics (GE3LS) research will be welcome
1. The Theme must focus on the application of genomics or proteomics research.
2. The EOI must describe expected socio-economic outputs, outcomes and impacts
on the sector or discipline covered by the theme in the near to medium term (~ 5-
10 years).
3. The EOI must describe a process for the development of a position paper.
4. The EOI must identify a theme leader(s) who will drive the process and be
responsible for delivering a position paper.
5. The EOI must have the support of a Genome Centre.
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B Eligibility Criteria for Consideration to Move EOI to Position
Paper Process
The EOI must fulfil the five criteria in A above as well as the following:
1. The Theme proposed must be in an area of strategic importance to the Canadian
economy and/or society.
C Evaluation Criteria for Position Papers
The following criteria will be expected to be met, but the list is not exhaustive.
1 The Theme must focus on large-scale, 'omics' research or research in the areas
of ethical, environmental, economic, legal and social issues related to such
research (GE3LS),and the expected socio-economic outputs, outcomes and
impact on the sector or discipline covered by the theme within the near to
medium term (five years-ten years).
2 The relevance and international impact of the proposed research. Will the
research enable Canada to position itself among the world's leaders or sustain it
in that position? How does it compare to research being conducted elsewhere?
3 Economic size or societal impact of the sector or discipline covered by the
specific theme.
4 Demonstration of inclusiveness of the process used to develop the position
paper, including the consultation process.
5 Demonstration that the type of research proposed builds on existing Canadian
S&T strengths and expertise in genomics or proteomics research using existing
infrastructure, where appropriate and/or targets a unique Canadian niche.
6 Demonstration of sufficient stakeholder interest and support, including potential
co-funders.
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