Queen’s University has welcomed the opportunity to submit proposals to the Canada First Research Excellence Fund (CFREF), a Government of Canada investment of $1.5 billion over 10 years that was announced in December 2014.

“The Government of Canada’s commitment will strengthen post-secondary institutions’ ability to compete on the global stage in established areas of research strength as well as new and emerging fields,” says Steven Liss, Vice-Principal (Research). “With the support of CFREF, researchers will advance scientific understanding for the benefit of Canadians and people around the world.”

The Government of Canada announced two initial competitions for CFREF late last year. The first competition closed in March with Queen’s submitting proposals that would expand research in the fields of particle astrophysics and geoengineering.

The university has invited faculties to submit proposals for the second competition, which represents a majority of the CFREF funding, up to $950 million. The Government of Canada has not announced the application deadlines for the second competition, which will unfold over a longer period than the first competition.

“We are excited by the potential opportunities generated by CFREF,” Dr. Liss says. “Securing such funding grants would advance our pre-eminence in key areas of institutional strength, and reinforce our ability to attract and retain top researchers, post-doctoral fellows and graduate students, some of the world’s brightest minds.”

An arm’s-length selection board assesses the applications based on scientific merit and potential to lead on the global stage, strategic relevance to Canada, and strength of the implementation plan. Visit the CFREF website for complete details and email the Office of the Vice-Principal (Research) if you have any questions.

Queen’s distinguishes itself as one of the leading research-intensive institutions in Canada. The mission is to advance research excellence, leadership and innovation, as well as enhance Queen’s impact at a national and international level. Through undertaking leading-edge research, Queen’s is addressing many of the world’s greatest challenges, and developing innovative ideas and technological advances brought about by discoveries in a variety of disciplines.