Meningitis Research Foundation opens 2014 research funding round

International charity Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF) has opened its 2014 research grants round, inviting researchers from around the world to submit their applications for funding.

This year, three priority topics have been highlighted. The charity's Scientific Advisory Panel and Trustees are particularly interested in well-constructed proposals in the following areas:

• Research pertinent to MenB prevention, in particular, research to evaluate implementation of a MenB vaccine with special emphasis on the impact on Neisseria meningitidis epidemiology, developing approaches to understanding the molecular basis of vaccine failures, and non-culture cases

• The burden of GBS/neonatal meningitis including research that could contribute to the design of control policies

• Research in Eastern Africa that seeks to improve outcomes by overcoming barriers to health seeking behaviour and improving prevention, recognition, treatment and health systems. We are particularly interested in projects that lead to practical interventions and partnerships

Chris Head, Chief Executive of Meningitis Research Foundation said : "We believe that research is the key to our vision of a world free from meningitis and septicaemia. Since our launch 25 years ago we have awarded 140 research grants to the value of over £17.5 million. In our 25th year we are pleased to see the vital progress that has been made through our research funding and support. However, we are committed to continuing this into the future and seeing further improvements in the recognition, treatment and ultimate prevention of meningitis and septicaemia around the world."

Research applications are assessed through a stringent, highly competitive peer review process.

MRF is an active member of the Association of Medical Research Charities and supports AMRC policies on peer review, good research practice, and use of animals in research and university indirect costs.

Further information about the application process this year can be found in Applying 2014. Applicants are advised to refer to the Research investment strategy, Information for prospective applicants and Code of conduct before completing the preliminary proposal form.

The deadline for preliminary proposals is Wednesday 10 September 2014.

If you would like to be put on the contact list to receive email notification about upcoming rounds or have any questions, please contact Research Officer Gill Currie on 01454 280410 or email: gillianc@meningitis.org

More information:
Media contacts: For more information on the work of Meningitis Research Foundation please contact Becky Pierce-Jones, PR Manager on 01454 280416 or email: beckypj@meningitis.org

Notes to Editors:
• MRF estimates that there are around 3,200 cases of meningitis and septicaemia every year in the UK. They are easily mistaken for milder illnesses, but unlike a dose of flu can kill within hours and may cause serious, life-long disabilities. As many as one in ten of those affected will die and a third of survivors will be left with after-effects, some as serious as brain damage, amputations, blindness and hearing loss.

• We spend around £1m annually supporting those affected and raising awareness. Our Freefone helpline – 080 8800 3344 – provides information to the general public and those affected by the disease.

• We provide symptoms information, research and case studies at www.meningitis.org

Provided by Meningitis Research Foundation