Rapid funding call for the National Core Study (NCS) on Transmission (“PROTECT”)

Posted by: Julie Simpson - Posted on:

The NCS: “PROTECT” portfolio of projects began delivering in October 2020. Led by HSE, it brings together more than 70 researchers from 16 different institutions to identify and address the most important routes of transmission for the SARS-CoV-2,virus.

The programme is organised around six key themes which are designed to address questions not being tackled by UK Research & Innovation (UKRI) funded research, with a clear focus on the key knowledge gaps.

In addition to the six key research themes, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have now launched a rapid funding call for more researchers to join this vital programme and fill a number of further evidence gaps.

Purpose of funding call:

 The aims of this call are to:

  • Enable linkage of other currently funded COVID-19 research to this NCS to deliver greater impact in addressing the key transmission questions.
  • Produce results that can inform the activities being delivered under the “PROTECT”: NCS portfolio of projects at increased pace, the near term national COVID-19 response, and the research data and analytical requirements of SAGE and its sub-groups.
  • Develop practical approaches to support and sustain a return to a post-pandemic life.
  • Enhance the assets created by this NCS to make them available and accessible to others through a process of evidence synthesis, knowledge management and the creation of legacy

Interested researchers and institutions should consult the full call specification.

Specific areas of research interest are outlined in Annex A.

To apply see the call page and register on HSE’s tender portal:

HSE Tender portal

First part of the open call closes on 20/06/2021