SHIC requests research proposals to address emerging swine disease

Research provides critical information and resources to help pork producers as they face emerging disease challenges in their swine herds. Research priorities and topics identified in the SHIC 2024 Plan of Work help the Swine Health Information Center fulfill its mission to generate new intelligence for preventing, preparing, and responding to emerging swine disease threats. 

SHIC has now issued a formal request for proposalsinviting submissions to specifically address 11 of the 36 research priorities and topics published in the 2024 Plan of Work, across three of the Center’s five strategic emphases. Proposals are due March 1, 2024, and will undergo a competitive review process for value to the pork industry by a SHIC working group which will provide funding recommendations.

The specific research priorities included in this RFP focus on monitoring and mitigating risks to swine health, responding to emerging disease, and surveillance and discovery of emerging disease. The intent of the RFP is to encourage researchers to develop and submit proposals that specifically address these identified priorities, broaden awareness of funding opportunities to advance SHIC’s 2024 Plan of Work, and to expand the scientific network of researchers and institutions conducting critical research on emerging swine diseases. Funding timely research is an essential component of SHIC providing project outcomes that drive action for emerging disease prevention, preparedness, and mitigation.

Proposals should clearly state the targeted priority that will be addressed through the project. Collaborative projects that include the pork industry, allied industry, academic institutions, and/or public/private partnerships are highly encouraged. Projects that demonstrate the most urgent and timely completion, provide the greatest value to pork producers, and show efficient use of funds will be prioritized for funding. Projects are requested to be completed within a 12-month period with justification being required if the project duration extends beyond 12 months.

Funding available for the SHIC 2024 Plan of Work Research Program priorities included in this RFP is $1.1 million. Individual awards are anticipated to be between $50,000 and $150,000. Budgets exceeding this range require sufficient justification. Projects should strive to be unique, have a high impact, and have industry-wide benefit.