Please note the call for applications is now closed.

The National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) continues its innovative program of breast cancer research through its Novel Concept Award / Plot Study Grant schemes.

It is anticipated that research completed through a NBCF Novel Concept Award / Pilot Study Grant will provide sufficient preliminary data to enable the investigator to prepare a proposal for future research funding. It is not expected that researchers applying for these awards will present preliminary data with their application.

These awards will provide investigators with the opportunity to pursue serendipitous observations and/or explore new, untested ideas relevant to breast cancer. Successful applicants will demonstrate the potential for advancing scientific knowledge and/or breaking new theoretical ground and/or challenge existing understandings. These proposals are not intended to fund small Projects that continue established lines of investigation. They are intended to initiate new Projects that develop new ideas.

Applications are invited from the entire continuum of breast cancer research, from basic science to prevention, treatment and care, insofar as the proposed idea has the potential to help prevent breast cancer, improve survival and/or enhance quality of life. The NBCF also has an interest in fostering research in lymphoedema and traditional, complementary, and alternative medicine.

Information for applicants:

• A maximum funding amount of $200,000 can be requested for up to two years.
• The NBCF relies on public donations for its funds and this governs the level of funding available for new research projects each year.
• The NBCF Research Advisory Committee (RAC) sub-committee process, coordinated by the NBCF, will assess applications. The RAC consists of respected researchers from across the spectrum of breast cancer as well as at least one consumer representative. The RAC makes recommendations to the Board of Trustees for approval. All applications are treated as confidential
• Applicants must be Australian citizens, or be graduates from overseas with permanent Australian resident status, must reside in Australia throughout the funding period and not under bond to any foreign government. Evidence of permanent resident status shall be provided.
• All applications must be made using the correct forms. Please download the Guidelines and Application form below.
• This scheme was approved for DEST funding in the period 2008 – 2009.
• The NBCF will not support any individual researcher, research group or institution that accepts funds from tobacco companies or persons associated with the tobacco industry.

The call for Novel Concept Award / Pilot Study Grant is now closed. Please see the Research Calendar for more information. 

Please note that the NBCF will accept applications with faxed signatures if it is not possible to obtain original signatures, however original signatures would be preferable.

Please click here for the Guidelines (213KB)

Please click here for the Application Form (267KB)

If you would like to subscribe to our newsletter Illuminate Research (formerly known as the NBCF Research Information List) please email your name, job title, company or research institution, and contact details to researchinfo@nbcf.org.au. As a subscriber you will receive alerts regarding our research grant portfolio.

The NBCF will not support any individual researcher, research group or institution that accepts funds from tobacco companies or persons associated with the tobacco industry.