Supporting translational research infrastructure to develop new therapeutics for human health
Pipeline Accelerator Scheme
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you have separate guidelines for Core facilites and Screening facilities?
Under TIA's budget strategy, vouchers to support project access to screening facilities are funded from a different source than for Core facilities. Also, there are differences in the size of vouchers offered and the scope of activities supported. In all other respects the documents are identical.
How frequent are the calls?
Calls for vouchers to access both core facilities and screening centres are held every six months, and are planned to close at end of each April and October
How many projects can you support in each round?
We expect to be able to support 5-7 screening centre access vouchers and 10-12 core facility access vouchers, depending on application numbers, voucher size and available budget.
Does TIA or the facility have a position in any resulting IP?
TIA does not seek any interest in IP resulting from voucher-supported projects. IP arrangements are set by any agreements between Provider facilities and Applicants.
What if I can't start within six months?
We suggest that if the project is not ready to start, consider re-applying at the nextg round which will be a mximum of six months away.
Why does the Provider facility get the funds and not the Applicant?
TIA has existing working and contractual relationships with Provider facilities, meaning that we can transfer funds quickly without waiting for a legal agreement between Applicants, Providers and TIA. For this reason, we do not seek agreements between Applicants and TIA, but rely on agreements betwen Applicants and Provider facilities.
How can I join this scheme as a Provider facility?
If your facility undertakes work associated with screening of compound libraries for drug discovery, please contact us directly to discuss if your centre is eligible. If your facility offers different services, it is unlikely that you will be eligible but we would like to hear from you anyway.
Does co-investment have to be cash?
The vouchers scheme is intended to help projects cross the start line, but it is also meant to provide a subsidy - it is not intended to support activities in their entirety. For this reason, some "skin in the game" is required. And while in-kind support is appreciated, the total quoted cost of a service must be coveredm and this means a cash contribution is required.
Can I receive two vouchers for the same project?
Applicants may apply for multiple vouchers to support the same project in subsequent rounds, accessing the same or a different facility.
Can I access two different facilities with the same voucher?
Absolutely, the guidelines and application form allow for this.
Why does round 2 of the 2020-21 screening round have a focus on assay development?
We note that this area of the screening workflow is particularly difficult to fund, requiring considerable scientific and technical expertise, whereas screening capacity is available via the National Drug Discovery Centre's subsidised access scheme funded in part by the MRFF. We will still support screening and hit validation activities, however for this round, projects seeking to undertake assay development will be prioritised.
Do I need to contact the Provider facility before applying for a voucher?
Yes. It will be assumed that the application has been developed in close consultation with a Provider facility, and a quote for services a required part of the application.
I received a voucher but due to changed circumstances I want to use it on a different project with the same Provider facility. Is this allowable?
No, vouchers are awarded to support specific projects and cannot be transferred. If this happens please contact us.
Is there anywhere I can get advice about which Provider Facility may best be able to assist me?
That is was we are here for. Please contact TIA directly and we will be happy to advise you which of our facilities may be able to assist you. Alternatively, please consult the Pipeline Navigator.
Can I apply for a voucher to access a facility that sits in my own University, Faculty or Institute?
Yes, but you will need to briefly articulate why you require voucher support to access a facility within your own organisation.
I am a Facility Director. Can I be named in a voucher application to my own facility?
You can be named in a project team but cannot be named as the lead applicant.