Canada Biomedical Research Fund and Biosciences Research Infrastructure Fund (CBRF-BRIF)
Stage 2—Selection criteria descriptions

The research activities are feasible and are likely to result in the expected outcomes. There is a description of methodological limitations and plans to mitigate limitations, as appropriate.

The methodological approach(es) and design of the research component are well suited to the objectives. The approach(es) include sex- and gender-based analysis (SGBA) and/or gender-based analysis plus (GBA+) and demonstrate active engagement and collaboration with First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities, as appropriate.

Infrastructure and tools are appropriate for carrying out the research activities. Materials, processes and procedures used and developed are in accordance with established standards such as Good Laboratory Practices and Good Manufacturing Practices, as applicable.

The oversight structure(s) and plan(s) reflect the objectives, breadth and complexity of the research component. There is evidence that the governance and/or administrative plan(s) will guide the research activities. Plans should include:

• appropriate methods and indicators for monitoring progress and assessing outcomes;
• a description of the specific roles and expertise of members involved in the governance structure; and
• data management considerations, as appropriate.

The described oversight structure(s) and/or administrative plan(s) reflect the objectives, breadth and complexity of the talent development component. Plans should include:

• appropriate methods and indicators for monitoring progress and assessing outcomes; and
• a description of the specific roles and expertise of governance structure members.

The talent development activities support pandemic readiness and response to emerging health threats by providing a value-added experience to trainees and HQP. The activities enable the development of skills relevant to the biomanufacturing and life sciences sector, including:

• industry-relevant skills in research, engineering and biomanufacturing;
• training in Good Laboratory Practice and Good Manufacturing Practice laboratories and facilities, where appropriate; and
• training in approaches to advance rigorous and responsible research (e.g., SGBA and/or GBA+, data management, engagement with Indigenous Peoples, ethics, unconscious bias).

The talent development activities include workshops and conferences, internships with a mentoring component and/or co-op and outreach programs that:

• provide opportunities for HQP to transition to careers within and beyond academia;
• promote and encourage national and, where applicable, international mobility across sectors and disciplines;
• promote interaction of HQP with non-academic sectors (private companies, industry associations, not-for-profit organizations, government departments, etc.), as appropriate; and
• promote links between HQP and prospective employers.

The oversight structure(s) and plan(s) in place are tailored to the breadth and complexity of the infrastructure component and are appropriate to effectively oversee the ongoing operation and maintenance of the requested infrastructure. Plans should include:

• a description of the expertise and roles of the team members involved in oversight activities; and
• data management considerations, as appropriate.

The operating and maintenance costs outlined in the infrastructure component are appropriate and sufficient to sustain the infrastructure over its useful life. Funds for operating and maintaining the infrastructure are secured or a plan to secure funds is provided and includes:

• an appropriate allocation of resources;
• a contingency plan for potential funding shortfalls; and
• diversified revenue and funding sources, as appropriate.