Applications open for microbiome research grants
The Global Grants for Gut Health is a competitive program, which will consider proposals for one-year, investigator-initiated research projects—whether laboratory investigations or clinical studies—that advance understanding of how gut microbiota impact human health.
Scope 2024
Funded by gut health company Yakult and administered and promoted by Nature, a division of the international scientific publishing company Springer Nature, the program recently issued a call for research proposals that explore beyond the bacterial microbiome to elucidate mechanisms of interaction between the host and the microbial and non-microbial microbiomes in the gut.
Applicants should be employed by a university, research institute or any other not-for-profit organization, must hold a doctorate or medical degree and have at least five years’ postdoctoral research experience.
Proposals will be assessed by internationally renowned researchers against the quality and originality of the science, meaning studies must be well-designed and robust, using the most appropriate methodologies, equipment, data and analytical techniques to reach the stated objectives. Potential scientific and social impact will be considered as the aim of the scheme is to benefit society and patients through improved knowledge, tools and techniques to understand and address gut health. Quality of the applicant and value for money will be also judged on the track record of the applicant(s) and the appropriateness of the host universities and institutes, and judges will prioritize research with an emphasis on mechanisms of action.
The window for applications is open from now until September 9. Grants will be of up to $100,000 for the direct costs of research and last up to 12 months. Applicants may also apply for an additional 10% of the direct costs of research to cover organizational overheads.
