Attention Researchers: BCRC Opens Call for Letters of Intent
In preparation for the third Beef Cattle Industry Science Cluster, the Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC) is now inviting researchers to submit letters of intent.
What is the Beef Cattle Industry Science Cluster?
The BCRC developed the first and second Beef Cattle Industry Science Clusters under Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Growing Forward Strategy.
The first Cluster was a four year initiative (April 1, 2009 and March 31, 2013). Industry and government funding commitments through the first Cluster totaled $10.5 million directed to 32 research projects. The research activities involved 51 lead researchers at seven federal sites and five universities in six provinces, in addition to several provincial government institutions and industry facilities. Results of the first Cluster.
The second Cluster was a five year initiative (April 1, 2013 to March 31, 2018). Joint industry and government commitments to the second Cluster totaled $20 million, including $14 million in funding from AAFC, $1 million in provincial government investments, and $5 million in funding from the research allocation of the National Check-off and provincial beef industry groups. Funding was directed to 26 studies, which are summarized here.
The Clusters have proven to be a very successful step towards improving coordination of beef research funding in Canada including, AAFC, BCRC, provincial governments, provincial cattle associations, and other industry funders. Funding has been focused on a comprehensive outcome-based research program directly aligned with industry’s vision and priorities, which is generating meaningful, applicable results.
The BCRC is planning to renew this program under AAFC’s next agricultural policy framework and is currently planning for the third Beef Cattle Industry Science Cluster covering the period April 1, 2018 to March 31, 2023. Funding commitments for the third Cluster are expected to be announced in 2017.
Research Outcomes
The BCRC has established clearly defined research outcomes for the third Beef Cattle Industry Science Cluster through a comprehensive stakeholder engagement process. Researchers should refer to the research outcomes before deciding to submit a letter of intent.
Application Forms & Information
Letters of intent must be prepared on the form provided by the BCRC. The form, together with instructions, can be downloaded from the Call for Proposals page.
Who May Apply
Any individual or organization (academic institution, private industry, government or non-government organization) from Canada or elsewhere with ability and/or a track record of success in carrying out research projects in areas relevant to the Canadian beef industry is eligible to apply.
Project Timeframe
Projects up to five years in length may be submitted, but preference will be given for projects that are up to three years in duration; unless the need for a longer timeframe can be demonstrated. Projects will commence no earlier than April 1, 2018 (subject to AAFC approval of the Science Cluster) and must be completed by March 31, 2023.
Submission of Letters of Intent
Letters of intent must be submitted no later than January 13, 2017, at 11:59 PM MT in electronic format to proposals@beefresearch.ca
Researchers will be notified by February 15, 2017 if they have been invited to submit a full proposal. The deadline for receipt of invited proposals will be April 14, 2017.
Quick Links
- Research Objectives for the Third Beef Cattle Industry Science Cluster
- Instructions and Guidelines to Submit a Letter of Intent (PDF)
- Letter of Intent Form (PDF)
- Request for Letters of Intent (PDF)
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