The Medical Research Foundation (UK) has announced a new funding initiative aimed at supporting mid-career researchers examining the health impacts of climate change. This program, open to researchers in sub-Saharan Africa and the UK, addresses the urgent health challenges posed by climate change, which the World Health Organization predicts could cause an additional 250,000 deaths annually between 2030 and 2050.

The Foundation is dedicating £1.7 million to this initiative, offering grants of up to £300,000 per project over a maximum of three years. Research should focus on understanding how climate change affects health outcomes, particularly infectious diseases and other conditions disproportionately impacting sub-Saharan Africa. This includes exploring the biological mechanisms behind climate-related health issues, developing treatments for illnesses worsened by climate change, and creating strategies to mitigate these health impacts.

The initiative specifically targets pairs of mid-career researchers—one based in sub-Saharan Africa and the other in the UK—who are transitioning to research independence. This collaborative approach aims to foster new partnerships or strengthen existing ones, enhancing the research networks and profiles of the participants. It seeks to cultivate emerging leaders in the field of climate change and health.

In addition to funding, the Foundation offers an extensive career-enhancing support package. This includes mentoring, training, networking events, and workshops focused on establishing equitable partnerships and grant writing. These resources are designed to equip researchers with the skills needed to advance their careers and foster a collaborative climate change research community.

Eligible applicants must hold a PhD, DPhil, or MD, and have relevant postdoctoral experience. The call is open to nationals of sub-Saharan African countries based in legal entities within the region, and UK-based researchers from eligible institutions such as higher education institutions, research council institutes, hospitals, and independent research organisations.

Applications are now open, with a deadline of 25 September 2024. This initiative underscores the critical need for innovative research to address the complex interplay between climate change and health, aiming to develop practical solutions that can make a tangible impact on vulnerable populations in sub-Saharan Africa.

 

Article by Nyokabi Wanjiku

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https://www.medicalresearchfoundation.org.uk/grants/impact-of-climate-change-on-health-research