The McGill Computational & Data Systems Initiative (CDSI) is pleased to announce the return of its research convergence program. Convergent research crosses disciplinary boundaries to tackle challenging problems that require ambitious solutions. The purpose of this program is to support McGill researchers in exploring new collaborations, as well as building and empowering multidisciplinary teams to work on converging research topics in which computational and data systems are central. Ultimately the aim is to help position McGill teams to pursue external sources of funding in areas of major (inter)national importance.
Proposals are sought at this time for the following two stages of Convergent Research Themes (CRTs):
- Exploratory. For teams in the initial stages of exploring the prospects for a convergence theme(s) at a given interface(s) across disciplines. Emphasis on the exchange of knowledge and ideas necessary for determining putative directions and their viability, with the end-product being a SWOT analysis in a short report. Value and Duration: Four awards, each up to $10,000.
- Proof of Concept. For teams focused on building initial proof of concept around a well-defined prospective convergence theme. Emphasis on a short, focused program of work aimed at a final pre-determined end-point demonstrating promise for a full-scale convergence theme. Value and Duration: One award, up to $20,000.
Notes: Submit proposals through the forms linked here: Exploratory Form, Proof of Concept Form
- Applications are open to members of all McGill faculties.
- Lead applicants must be active McGill faculty.
- Teams must include primarily active members of McGill.
- In addition to the financial support, successful applicants will receive support from CDSI staff for the Winter ’24 semester.
- Eligible costs are (i) HR compensation (stipends, salaries and benefits for students/post-docs) and (ii) research community engagement expenses (e.g. workshops, etc.).
To discuss the alignment of ideas with the goals of this funding program, lead applicants are strongly encouraged to contact CDSI (cdsi.science [at] mcgill.ca) with an initial statement of interest as early as possible.
