Overview

The Paul Farmer Collaborative (PFC) is an initiative of the Cummings Foundation to solidify the existing collaboration between Harvard Medical School (HMS) and the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE). This ten-year partnership, governed by a joint steering committee, will strengthen the missions of both universities through student exchanges, faculty exchanges, and fostering collaborative research. This small grant program is one initiative with the goal of fostering collaborative research between the two institutions.

Applications are to be submitted here by May 15, 2025 by 11pm CAT/5pm ET.

Small research grants:

• Up to $75,000 for 18 months.
• Should align to primary thematic areas and include at least one cross-cutting theme

Planning grants:

• Up to $10,000 for 6 months.
• Should foster a new collaboration between UGHE and HMS-affiliated researchers that will be competitive for 2026 grant submissions.

Eligibility:

• Must be led by someone from UGHE, HMS, and/or HMS-affiliated hospital.
• Must include individuals from both UGHE and HMS/HMS-affiliated hospitals.
• Small grants must have a training or capacity building component such as engaging UGHE/HMS students or junior researchers.
• See the RFA for the full list of eligibility and review criteria.

For additional information:

• Informational sessions:
  • Watch recording here
• Email pfc-research@ughe.org

Application materials

Full Request for Applications Budget template

 

Paul Farmer Collaborative Small Research Grants FAQs

1. Can grants focus on topics outside of the priority research areas?

As noted in the RFA: “For this first grant cycle, preferred applications will have focus in one or more of the following: clinical systems with a particular emphasis on non-communicable diseases, mental health, and/or surgery.” All things being equal, grants in these topic areas will be prioritized. However, strong applications in other areas are acceptable and will be competitive if stronger across the evaluation criteria areas.

 

2. How can I find a collaborator at the partner institution for our submission?

We are facilitating match making across the institutions. Individuals looking for a match should complete this form. People who have completed this form and are looking for pairs are listed here.

 

3. Can someone apply to more than one grant?

Individuals can be represented on multiple grant teams. However, individuals can PI only one small grant submission and only one planning grant submission.

 

4. How often will these RFAs be available?

We anticipate annual competitions for the small research grants and planning grants. Future cycles will likely be announced earlier in the calendar year to allow more time for submission.

 

5. Can the research include other countries outside of Rwanda?

No. Current proposals should only include Rwanda-based research.

 

6. Can applications include institutions outside of UGHE, HMS, or HMS-affiliated hospitals?

Applications can engage collaborators outside of these institutions. However, no money can be provided to these collaborators. No subawards will be allowed, and all money must be spent via UGHE, HMS, or an HMS-affiliated hospital.