Up to $200,000 per grant to accelerate the adoption of cutting-edge non-animal technologies such as complex in vitro models, computational methods, and in chemico approaches.
Current status of program
CLOSED
To register your interest in future rounds or discuss alternative grant opportunities please contact us here.
On this page you will find
What is the NAT-Net Research Pillar Competitive Grant Scheme?
The Non-Animal Technologies Network (NAT-Net) Research Pillar Competitive Grant Scheme supports collaborations that advance innovative alternatives to animal use in medical and health research. Administered by the University of New South Wales (UNSW) and funded by NSW Health, the program aims to accelerate the adoption of cutting-edge non-animal technologies (NATs) such as complex in vitro models, computational methods, and in chemico approaches.
The scheme will fund two-year projects commencing in March 2026 that demonstrate significant advancements over current approaches and contribute to the growing research ecosystem in NSW.
NAT-Net Research Pillar Competitive Grant Scheme level of support
- Funding available: Up to $200,000 per grant.
- Funding pool: $600,000 total (3 grants of $200,000).
- Minimum: No formal minimum specified.
- Maximum: $200,000 over a two-year period (March 2026 – March 2028)
- Co-contribution: Not mandatory, but host organisations are encouraged to detail additional in-kind or cash support, which will be considered positively against the assessment criteria.
- External collaborators outside NSW must self-fund their involvement.
NAT-Net Research Pillar Competitive Grant Scheme important dates
- Expressions of Interest (EOIs) have now closed
- Register your interest with GrantHelper
NAT-Net Research Pillar Competitive Grant Scheme objectives
The NAT-Net Research Pillar Competitive Grant Scheme aims to:
- Fund groundbreaking medical and health research that promotes alternatives to animal use.
- Build research leadership and capacity in non-animal technologies across NSW.
- Foster collaboration and excellence, increasing the number of outstanding NAT researchers in NSW.
- Drive the development of innovative, high-quality, non-animal research technologies
Projects and expenditure eligible for NAT-Net Research Pillar Competitive Grant Scheme support
Eligible Projects
Eligible Areas of Research
Projects must focus on non-animal technologies, including:
- Laboratory-developed and engineered in vitro cellular models (e.g. organoids, engineered tissues, organs-on-chips).
- Computational approaches (e.g. in silico simulation, machine learning, AI).
- In chemico methods (e.g. biochemical assays to assess potency).
- Complex in vitro models (CiVMs) combining multiple cell types to replicate human disease.
Projects must demonstrate substantial advancement over current technologies and deliver practical improvements to the field.
Ineligible Projects and Expenditures
Funding cannot be used for:
- Incremental improvements to existing technologies.
- Capital works, maintenance costs, or organisational infrastructure/overheads.
- Telephone/communication systems, office equipment (desks, chairs), rent, or utilities.
- Service delivery costs.
Other NAT-Net Research Pillar Competitive Grant Scheme important details that you will need to know
Organisations eligible for NAT-Net Research Pillar Competitive Grant Scheme support
Host organisations must be NSW-based and include:
- Universities
- Independent medical research institutes
- Not-for-profits
- Local health districts/public health organisations
Chief Investigator A (CIA):
- Must be NSW-based, employed by an eligible host organisation.
- Limited to one application as CIA.
- Must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a visa covering the full grant term.
Collaborations:
- At least two eligible research institutions, with one in NSW.
- Must include one NSW-based EMCR (≤10 years post-PhD).
- Up to 8 Chief Investigators (A–H).
- For-profit organisations are not eligible to host/administer but may participate as partners.
See the guidelines for full details of organisational requirements.
NAT-Net Research Pillar Competitive Grant Scheme assessment criteria
Applications are assessed in two stages: Expression of Interest (EOI) and Full Application.
1. Research Plan Feasibility – 50%
- EOI: Provide a high-level overview of the research plan, including objectives, research question, methodology, study design, and data analysis plan.
- Full: Provide a detailed research plan, including background, objectives, methodology, research design, timeline and milestones, data analysis plan, risk management plan, value for money, and resource allocation to ensure the project is achievable and well supported.
2. Impact and Innovation – 25%
- EOI: Demonstrate the novelty and transformative potential of the proposed research, emphasising innovation beyond incremental improvements and alignment with the NAT-Net mission.
- Full: Provide detailed evidence supporting the project’s novelty, creativity, and potential for breakthrough outcomes. Outline how the innovation integrates with or advances non-animal technology methods (e.g. bioengineering, computational, AI, or complex in vitro models) and how it builds impact in NSW’s non-animal technology research environment.
3. Collaboration – 25%
- EOI: Outline how collaboration enhances the project’s reach, relevance, and translational potential within research sectors, aligned with the NAT-Net mission.
- Full: Evaluate the depth and effectiveness of collaboration, including governance and partnership structures. Provide evidence of demonstrated or projected impact on health practice, policy, or technology adoption consistent with the NAT-Net mission.
4. Budget – Assessed Separately
- EOI: Provide an indicative budget request and justification, demonstrating alignment with project scope and value for money.
- Full: Submit a detailed and well-justified budget outlining all funding requested and how it will be allocated. Assessment will consider:
-
- overall value for money,
- appropriateness and purpose of each line item,
- existing funding for the research and how this relates to additional funding requested, and
- other contributions and support (cash or in-kind) from the host organisation and partners.
How do I get the NAT-Net Research Pillar Competitive Grant Scheme?
Applicants must:
- Read the Guidelines thoroughly to understand all eligibility, funding conditions, and assessment criteria before preparing an application.
- Confirm eligibility of the Chief Investigator A (CIA), host organisation, and the research collaboration. Applications that do not meet all eligibility requirements will not be considered.
- Submit the required application documents on time.
- Provide complete and accurate information in all sections of the EOI and Full Application forms, with required attachments (research proposal, references, bios, budget, certifications).
- Secure certification from the authorised representative(s) of the host organisation, and administering organisation if applicable, to confirm institutional support and compliance with funding requirements.
- Agree to deliver the project as outlined in the approved application and in accordance with the funding agreement, including all reporting obligations (annual progress/financial reports and final report).
- Ensure compliance with all relevant ethics approvals, intellectual property arrangements, and NSW Health research policies throughout the life of the grant.
Information to prepare for the NAT-Net Research Pillar Competitive Grant Scheme application
Applicants must prepare:
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Form + 2-page proposal, due 25 August 2025.
- Full Application (by invitation):
- Application form (Word + signed PDF).
- Research proposal (max 5 pages).
- References (1 page).
- Chief Investigator biographies (NIH Biosketch style, 1 page each, max 10 publications in last 5 years).
- Budget and details of in-kind or cash contributions.
- Certification signed by Chief Investigator A and authorised officers of the host and administering organisations.
Applying for the NAT-Net Research Pillar Competitive Grant Scheme
Submit the EOI form (Word + signed PDF) to NAT-Net Coordinator, Esther.Pronker@health.nsw.gov.au.
Register your interest with GrantHelper to explore your alignment with this grant and how we can assist you to increase your chances of success.
NAT-Net Research Pillar Competitive Grant Scheme resources
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