NSERC-French Agence nationale de la recherche (ANR) call for proposals on quantum technologies

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Review of your application

NSERC will convene a selection panel of external reviewers to assist in assessing applications. The selection panel will assess the applications according to the merit evaluation criteria and merit indicators. NSERC will consider equity, diversity and inclusion in the research and training environment as a screening criterion, and only those applications that meet this criterion will be retained for assessment by the selection panel. NSERC will also internally review the eligibility of the Canadian researchers.

Merit evaluation criteria

The merit of your Alliance International Collaboration grant application is evaluated using the following equally weighted seven criteria and sub-criteria. The proposal must address all criteria and sub-criteria to be considered for funding.

Relevance and outcomes

• Significance of the research and the intended outcomes. Alignment with the NQS mission to advance quantum computing hardware and software. Further develop areas of Canadian strength and leadership. Foster expertise in both countries.

Collaboration

• Added value of the proposed international collaboration for Canada and the rationale for the selected international collaborator(s).

Training

• Opportunities for enriched training experiences for research trainees (undergraduates, graduates, postdoctoral fellows) to develop relevant research skills as well as professional skills such as leadership, communication, collaboration and entrepreneurship (where possible and relevant, international experiences for Canadian trainees are encouraged).

Equity, diversity and inclusion (assessed by NSERC staff)

• Consideration of equity, diversity and inclusion in the research and training environment (for guidance, consult the Equity, diversity and inclusion in the training plan document).

Quality of the proposal

• The need for original research to address the topic and the potential for generating new scientific knowledge.
• Clarity of the objectives and appropriateness of the proposed research to achieve the objectives and expected outcome(s); justification for the planned expenditures.
• Appropriateness of academic researchers’ expertise, and that found within the collaborators, both for carrying out the planned research activities and in mentoring trainees.

NSERC uses established merit indicators to rate each evaluation sub-criterion/criterion.

Funding decision

NSERC and ANR will jointly determine recommendation outcomes.

NSERC and ANR will jointly fund each selected Canada-France project to support the activities of eligible researchers in their respective countries. NSERC’s contribution will be awarded as one Alliance International Collaboration Quantum grant per successful application, to be administered by the Canadian principal applicant’s institution. NSERC’s funding is intended to support the activities of the eligible Canadian researchers and must be used in accordance with the Tri-agency Guide on Financial Administration. Only Canadian applicants are eligible to receive funding from NSERC.

What's next?
Receiving your funding and starting your project