The objective of the Ideas Grant scheme is to support innovative research projects addressing a specific question(s).

The expected outcomes are:

• innovative and creative research
• funding of researchers at all career stages
• funding any area of health and medical research from discovery to implementation.

The scheme provides particular opportunities for early- and mid-career researchers. It is expected that the Chief Investigator A (CIA) will have the capability to lead the team in achieving the project aims.

The Ideas Grant scheme is not intended to support research where a clinical trial or cohort study is the primary objective. Applicants conducting projects which incorporate elements of clinical trial and/or cohort study must consider whether the project goals are more applicable to the Ideas Grant or Clinical Trials and Cohort Grant schemes.

Ideas Grants may be funded by or in conjunction with other organisations. These grants offer opportunities to researchers whose work is particularly relevant to the priorities and research interests of the partner organisations.

For details regarding the peer review process, refer to the Ideas Grants 2023 Peer Review Guidelines on GrantConnect (GO6133).

Eligibility criteria:

Applications will only be accepted from NHMRC Administering Institutions. A list of NHMRC Administering Institutions is available on NHMRC’s website.

Who is eligible to apply for a grant?

Chief Investigators and Associate Investigators:

• The maximum number of Chief Investigators (CIs) allowed on an Ideas Grant application is 10. 

• Phone: 1800 500 983
• Email: help@nhmrc.gov.au