Pictured (L to R): Dr Milena Gandy, School of Psychological Sciences; Dr Théotime Colin, School of Natural Sciences; Dr Caragh Threlfall, School of Natural Sciences; Dr Ross Hill, Senior Grant Development Manager
Researchers were challenged to showcase their pitching skills in front of academic peers and grant development experts at the recent Pitch Week final, in preparation for future funding applications.
Developed by the Grant Development Team, the pitch program provides researchers with a unique opportunity to receive specific feedback on research ideas during the early stages of development.
“Feedback at this early stage can be pivotal in ensuring an applicant is competitive to apply, is at the right career stage, has the best team and wants to apply for an appropriate scheme,” says Dr Ross Hill, Senior Grant Development Manager.
“It was very encouraging to see the range of brilliant, innovative research ideas and the generous support from the audience, who provided excellent feedback on each pitch. The value of networking opportunities should not be underestimated, with new connections made across the University.”
The program is open to all Macquarie research staff interested in applying for external funding schemes, along with individuals who are either resubmitting an application or entering the Australian funding landscape for the first time. The projects in the pitch aligned to each of the five future-shaping research priorities: Healthy People; Resilient Societies; Prosperous Economies; Secure Planet; and Innovative Technologies. The winners received co-funding from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) to be used as a cash contribution to an external funding application within 12 months of the pitch.
Dr Caragh Threlfall, School of Natural Sciences, won the competition, receiving $3000 in co-funding from the DVCR.
“The process of putting together the slides in addition to the feedback given on the day has been very helpful in crafting my proposed grant application. I would encourage everyone to enter this event,” says Dr Threlfall.
Dr Rezwanul Rana from the Centre for the Health Economy, who entered the competition adds: “Gaining input on potential funding opportunities and research collaborations was really valuable at this early stage of planning.”
Congratulations to the winners
Winner – $3000
Dr Caragh Threlfall, School of Natural Sciences, Smart Green Cities Research Centre
Doing more with less: Reimagining urban plantings for pollinators and people
Research priority: Secure Planet
Second Place – $2000
Dr Milena Gandy, School of Psychological Sciences, Lifespan Health and Wellbeing Research Centre
Advancing the supportive care of adults with neurological disorders via digital mental health care pathways
Research priority: Healthy People
Third Place – $1000
Dr Théotime Colin, School of Natural Sciences,
Improving bee health for better pollination
Research priority: Secure Planet
Do you have feedback about the event or ideas for Pitch Week 2024? Contact grant.development@mq.edu.au.
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