Q & A

My institution doesn't have an official stamp to be used in supporting letters?

Institutions that don't have official stamps can have the supporting letter endorsed by a notary public. Modify date: 10/04/2011 10:11:19

I am submitting a proposal for NPRP and my institution is acting as the "submitting institution". However my institution is under the umbrella of a foundation therefore I would like to know who will be my submitting institution?

No, the foundation cannot be the submitting institution as your institution has a separate legal entity, although it is under the foundation's umbrella. Your institution will be the submitting institution and the RO will be the functional RO for this situation. Modify date: 10/04/2011 10:10:20

Is there a page limit on the proposal submitted?

Text throughout the offline proposal preparation using QNRF templates should be Arial font, point size 12 and single spaced. The template margins (0.5" left, 0.5" right, 0.8" top and 0.8" bottom) must not be changed. The research plan may not exceed 25 pages of A4, excluding the cover page and the table of contents page. Modify date: 10/04/2011 10:05:55

I am planning to resubmit the proposal we submitted in the previous cycle after addressing the reviewers' comments. Do we do it as if we are submitting it for the first time I didn't find a tab for resubmissions in the proposal submission webpage?

You have already selected 'resubmission' in your LoI preparation, so there is no need to select the same option again as it is fixed from the LoI stage. Modify date: 10/04/2011 10:04:36

I recently submitted a LOI. Do I wait to receive a reply/invitation before submitting the full proposal?

No invitations will be sent out by QNRF. As a Lead PI, you can log into your account once you have submitted the LoI and proceed to submit the full proposal. Modify date: 10/04/2011 10:03:58

Can you tell me where to put the 'related work' section?

Kindly add the 'Related work' to whichever section applicable. At your discretion, and as required by the proposal, you may add it to: 'Background', 'Significance', 'Preliminary data or studies', or 'References' sections. Modify date: 10/04/2011 10:02:49

What is the optimal range, number and titles of the key inviestigators in each proposal?

Key investigators titles (or roles) in each project: Lead PI (LPI) can be from inside or outside Qatar and this is a one time role in each proposal. Co-LPI (always from inside Qatar) where his institution will be the submitting institution, if the LPI from outside Qatar then there should always be a co-LPI role from inside Qatar. However, if the LPI from inside Qatar then by default he will also have the role of co-LPI. It is also a one time role in each proposal. The role of PI, there is no limit on the number PIs in each proposal. The role of co-PI similar to PI. Modify date: 10/04/2011 10:02:16

Can the Lead PI be changed after submitting the Letter of Intent, i.e. can he switch his position with a Co-PI?

No, The LPI cannot be changed after submission of the LoI. The original LoI should be deleted and a new LoI should be submitted by the new LPI. Modify date: 10/04/2011 10:01:18

Does a graduate student have to be enrolled in their school at the time of submission of the grant or at the time the grant is awarded?

No, graduate students don't have to be identified during proposal submission. However, if funded, Grad students are to be identified in the online award administration system prior to their engagement in the research. Modify date: 10/04/2011 10:00:32

For resubmitted proposals, will they go through the same system as regular proposals submitted or will they have a specific mechanism?

Resubmitted and newly submitted proposals follow the same procedure except that QNRF will try to send the resubmitted proposals to the same previous peer reviewers. If any PR is not available, he/she will be replaced by a newly assigned PR of the same quality. Your rebuttal to peer reviewers will be entered online under rebuttal section. Modify date: 10/04/2011 09:43:14

I wish to register my interest in working in one of the submitted Proposals. How do I do this?

First you need to register as an applicant https://qnrfsubmission.org/registration_0.aspx. If you are selected by the LPI as key investigator you will receive from the LPI an invitation to participate in your QNRF account, and then you can accept participation. Modify date: 10/04/2011 09:41:26

I registered for the NPRP grant application, but I never received an email confirmation or an SMS message.

If you didn't receive a confirmation message from the system through either e-mail or SMS, please send your enquiry through the "support" link on QNRF website so that IT support can confirm your registration. Modify date: 10/04/2011 09:39:43

If a PI chose by mistake, our home University located in the US as his education institution association on his NPRP LOI. But, the PI is here in Education City as University faculty member. How can we fix this?

Please submit a request to QNRF through the support link, as the institution can be changed on the profile only after approval. Modify date: 10/04/2011 09:38:56

How can I register my name as a peer reviewer and my areas of expertise?

You can register as a peer reviewer through the following link https://qnrfsubmission.org/registration_0.aspx . During registration you will be able to select your research area and sub research area plus other information required by us; you will also be requested to upload your CV. However, if you are already registered as an applicant, you need to submit a request through the support link to change your status from applicant to peer reviewer. Modify date: 10/04/2011 09:37:56

Can we prepare the proposal before the deadline of the LoI?

Yes, in this cycle we have introduced a new change in the submission timeline where LPIs can start preparing their proposal once they submit their LoIs without the need to wait until the deadline of LoI submission. This will give LPIs ample time to prepare their proposals. Modify date: 10/04/2011 09:35:43

We are intending to submit a Letter Of Intent for the National Priorities Research Program and want to know if there is a specific type of template that we could see in order to send through the LOI?

There is no specific template provided by QNRF for the LOI. The LOI is required to provide QNRF with information on research areas for the purpose of planning the peer reviews. Please refer to the RFP for more information. Modify date: 10/04/2011 09:34:44

I would like to know how to submit the LoI for NPRP? Is there any formula online? Should other co PI submit LoI for the same project? Or only the Lead PI?

The LOI can be submitted online on our website when you are registered as applicant https://qnrfsubmission.org/login.aspx . Once you are logged into your account, you need to update your profile and upload a minimum 5 peer reviewed publications in order to activate the NPRP channel please refer to the LPI eligibility section in the RFP. Once this is done, please choose the NPRP proposal channel and click on the tab submit an LOI. The Lead PI alone needs to submit the LOI. Modify date: 10/04/2011 09:33:29

Is there a formal contract including the details of the IP policy? If it is included in the FMA can I please have a copy of a generic FMA to have a look at the clauses and discuss it with my collaborating partners?

Yes there is a detailed IP policy which is available for public on QNRF website at http://www.qnrf.org/about_qnrf/intellectual_property_policy/ .  The FMA IP clauses are derived from that. Modify date: 10/04/2011 09:31:50

How does QNRF handle the IP rights?

Kindly see QF/QNRF IP policy at http://www.qnrf.org/about_qnrf/intellectual_property_policy/ Modify date: 10/04/2011 09:31:15

Who needs to register with the Supreme Council of Health?

The ethical compliance boards of submitting institutions inside Qatar only need to be registered with the SCH. After this process, the institute will also submit an assurance form to the SCH. There are no such requirements for collaborating institutes from outside Qatar, as they will follow their own country's procedures and policies. For more information about SCH policies and regulations please refer to their website http://www.sch.gov.qa/sch/En/scontent.jsp?smenuId=63 Modify date: 10/04/2011 09:30:22

Can a M.Sc/MS/M.Phil holder be a Co-PI?

No, Co-PIs are individuals involved with the Principal Investigator in the scientific development or execution of a project. A Co-PI typically devotes a specified percentage of time to the project and is considered as a "Key Investigator". Hence Co-PIs also should hold Doctorate terminal degrees. Please check RFP for the approved list of terminal degrees. Modify date: 10/04/2011 09:29:10

Is there a limit on the number of proposals and/or awards that a person may have as any role?

Each key investigator is eligible to participate as LPI in up to three NPRP projects in all ongoing cycles, excluding projects to be completed before the start of the award. If the LPI is inside Qatar, he/she is by default the co-LPI and their role will be counted as LPI only. Each key investigator is also eligible to participate as Co-LPI in up to three NPRP projects in all ongoing cycles in proposals submitted by the LPIs outside Qatar, excluding projects to be completed before the start of the award. The maximum number of roles should not exceed 6 roles. Modify date: 10/04/2011 09:27:05

I would like to perform some of the research in the US if awarded a grant. Is this acceptable?

Yes, taking into consideration our policy, as also mentioned in the RFP for percentages of work done inside and outside of Qatar: The total annual budget (direct and indirect) must be expended as at least sixty-five percent (65%) of the total award within Qatar and no more than thirty-five percent (35%) outside of Qatar. Modify date: 10/04/2011 09:25:24

Can you submit a one year proposal with a budget exceeding $350,000, the balance being supported by a collaborating institution?

No, QNRF policy does not allow co-funding. Modify date: 09/28/2011 11:49:46

Can a Co-PI register after LoI submission? The RFP does not mention if the registration closes when the LOI deadline comes as previously, or if research members can register any time until the proposal submission

The other members such as Co-PI of the research team, can continue to register after LOI submission also. Modify date: 09/28/2011 11:40:27

Can I submit the proposal as a new submission even though when I submitted the LOI I indicated that this would be a resubmission?

If the LOI is submitted as a 'Resubmission', this cannot be changed during the proposal submission stage. Modify date: 09/28/2011 11:37:51

I am resubmitting a proposal which was submitted last year. I would like to amend the title of the proposal. Is that acceptable?

During resubmission of proposals, the title cannot be modified. If there are changes in the title or the research proposal itself, it will need to be submitted as a new proposal. Modify date: 09/28/2011 11:35:43

If QNRF policy change post-award, which policy would apply? the old or the new?

We only change our policy by a mutual agreement with awardee. Modify date: 09/28/2011 11:34:34

How does the Supreme Council of Health certify our IRB? How long is this process?

Please contact the Supreme Council of Health (SCH) directly for questions regarding registration of your institution's ethical compliance boards. As per the SCH, the process can take two-three weeks. Modify date: 09/28/2011 11:29:33

My publication has already been added in the QNRF system by another author. How do I add it to my account?

The system will prompt the LPI when a publication that has already been entered online is reentered by the LPI. However, the LPI will be able to choose this publication as another co-author and add to his profile. Modify date: 09/28/2011 11:26:29

Is there a limit to the total number of participants in a given proposal?

No, there are no limitations to number of participants in a project by QNRF. However, the qualifications of all key investigators will be reviewed and evaluated by the peer reviewers. Modify date: 09/28/2011 11:23:38

For the LPI eligibility of five publications, will accepted manuscipts fulfil the criteria?

No, accepted manuscripts are not published yet, and hence will not have a ISSN, ISBN or DoI number yet. Hence the system will not allow you to submit this. Modify date: 09/28/2011 11:21:23

The proposal is in a new field of research for the LPI and hence minimum three relevant publications may not be available. What is a possible solution to this issue?

The relevant publications section, requiring three to five publications includes publications of all key investigators. Hence any related publications by any of the KIs can be uploaded. Manuscripts in progress/accepted are also eligible to be uploaded for this requirement. Modify date: 09/28/2011 11:19:35

LPI has lesser than five required publications for eligibility. However, they have higher impact value. Will this be accepted by QNRF?

QNRF requires five publications as eligibility from LPIs. The publications could be book or book chapters, online journal publications, peer reviewed journal publications, patents etc., The number of publications need to fulfil the requirement of five, irrespective of the impact factor. Modify date: 09/28/2011 11:15:24

I do not have the facilities necessary to carry out my research proposal. How can I find a suitable collaborative partner?

QNRF has introduced a new page on our website entitled "Collaboration Forum". Applicants are encouraged to complete the appropriate form, as posted on the QNRF website. Such requests will then be screened by QNRF and published on a new collaboration opportunities link. In the interest of transparency, QNRF will not participate in the actual matching process but expects dialogue to take place directly between the interested parties. Modify date: 09/28/2011 10:56:16

We are in the process of preparing our proposal, can we switch the role of the LPI with one of the key investigators?

The role of the LPI can not be changed at this stage, as the overall proposal is built on the LPI account. You can however submit a change request to QNRF, if the proposal is awarded. Modify date: 09/28/2011 10:54:49

Some PIs need to have principal researchers to help with the work. To what extent can any of these researchers be released from their existing posts?

This issue is an internal matter to be resolved between the LPI and his research team prior to the submission of the proposal. Modify date: 09/28/2011 10:54:17

Is it acceptable for the Co-LPI residing in Qatar to be responsible only for the administrative part of the project (and be compensated for that) and not have any scientific role in the project?

The definition of a Co-LPI from our RFP below to explain that it is not acceptable for a Co-LPI to be responsible only for administrative part of a project: Co-Lead Principal Investigator (Co-LPI): is a PI affiliated to the submitting institution and acting as the LPI-representative in Qatar in addition to his/her scientific role of post award communication between the research team and QNRF. In the event that the LPI is in Qatar he/she will take the role of the Co-LPI by default. Modify date: 09/28/2011 10:50:21

I just want to inquire whether QF employees are allowed to apply or not? And if we are allowed which center in this case will vet our proposal??

Any center having an independent legal entity within Qatar Foundation can apply and their respective research office can vet the proposal. Modify date: 09/28/2011 10:49:19

When it comes to peer reviewing of my proposal, does the proposal lose points, if there is no collaboration with another university or other organization?

There is no bonus for collaboration and no loss of points if you don't have a collaborator, as it is not one of the PR evaluation criteria. Modify date: 09/28/2011 10:48:18

If I have received a small funding from an agency (seed-fund) to work on preliminary data for a given proposal, then after the seed-funding is over, can we submit the proposal to QNRF? Does QNRF allow the submission of such a proposal to its NPRP rounds?

QNRF does not co-fund proposals with another agency. If there is no overlap of this research then this proposal can be submitted. Kindly refer to our RFP (which can be downloaded from the following link) for further clarification: http://www.qnrf.org/fund_program/nprp/download/ Modify date: 09/28/2011 10:35:45

Can a key investigator not having the approved terminal degree participate in my proposal? And how can I add this KI?

Our system by default will not allow the LPI to add any key investigators not having the approved terminal degrees (as per the RFP). However, if the LPI, feels that this key investigator has qualifying research experience and publications, the LPI can submit his petition to QNRF support online to add the key investigator during proposal preparation period with the CV of the potential key investigator. Modify date: 09/28/2011 10:34:39

Are private companies eligible to apply for an NPRP research grant on their own, or is a company required to partner with an academic institution?

Private companies located inside Qatar can submit a proposal on their own ONLY if the company is research oriented or has research resources and facilities to conduct research. Furthermore, their Research Office (RO) should register with QNRF. Otherwise, the researcher in a private company may seek a collaborator in one of Qatar's academic institutions, through which the proposal should be submitted. Modify date: 09/28/2011 10:32:38

Does QNRF support an individual research proposal in order to conduct research in Qatari laboratories?

QNRF does not support individual research proposals, however, any proposal must be submitted via a submitting institution based inside Qatar. If your institution is not located in Qatar you need to partner with another PI working within an institution that is based inside Qatar. Modify date: 09/28/2011 10:31:34

Can Lead PI's submit proposals in subjects other than those given in the priority list?

The disciplines covered in the priority list published on the QNRF website is not an exhaustive list. So all  disciplines are welcome. Modify date: 09/28/2011 10:28:49

Can a graduate participate in such research grants? What are the conditions?

A graduate student may participate in the research grant if he/she was part of the research team but not as a key investigator.  Please refer to the RFP under 'Eligibility of Graduate Students' for more details. Modify date: 09/28/2011 10:19:14

Should the Lead PI reside in Qatar?

The lead PI may reside inside or outside Qatar. Modify date: 09/28/2011 10:18:01

Do we consider consultants as Key investigator?

No, consultants are not Key investigators but they are part of the research team. Modify date: 09/28/2011 10:17:22

Is it possible for the same research team with different Lead PIs win more than two proposals?

Yes, it is possible for the same research team with different Lead PI's as long as the conditions on the key investigators are met. Modify date: 09/28/2011 10:16:42

Can an institution outside Qatar be the submitting Institution (Awardee) and then commit to open a branch in Qatar if the project is awarded, in order to comply with the RFP policy?

No, the submitting institution should be inside Qatar, registered with QNRF as a RO prior to submission of proposals for any programs. Modify date: 09/28/2011 10:15:31

Are there any QNRF requirements to where, who, etc. can be considered as a consultant, or this is left to the professional judgment of the research team?

Consultant could be in or outside Qatar and is the decision of the LPI. Modify date: 09/28/2011 10:14:04

Should the partner inside Qatar be a faculty at a university or a business partner?

Grants will be made to the successful PI's academic, government, or private institution operating in or through a branch entity located inside Qatar. Modify date: 09/28/2011 10:11:46

I wonder if there are funding possibilities for the improvement infrastructure and research facilities of non-profit diagnostic and research units?

QNRF funds only basic and applied research. Unfortunately funding is not available for improvement infrastructure and development of research facilities. Modify date: 09/28/2011 10:10:02

I would like to inform that I am junior at an academic institution in and I am willing to work on research. I need the confirmation to do so and whether it is possible or not?

QNRF encourages the involvement of junior researchers; however this is left to the Key investigators working in that project to select their research team members. To apply as a Lead PI, you will need to satisfy all the eligibility criteria as mentioned in our RFP. Modify date: 09/28/2011 09:55:20

Does QNRF offer research grants in the Medical Ethics area?

Yes, QNRF fund a broad spectrum of specialty that covers all areas. Modify date: 09/28/2011 09:53:49

If I try to replace the supporting letter for other research team members, like Co-PI, the whole entry is deleted, and the Co-PI is removed from the timeline and budget, and everything has to be re-entered. Is there a solution to this problem?

The functionality for replacing the supporting letter is available at the collaborative institution page under the 'replace letter' tab. Modify date: 09/27/2011 14:49:48

Can the Graduate Student be from a university which is not part of the team, that is which does not have a key investigator in the team? For example, can we hire a GS from Qatar to do some work while his university is not official partner?

Grad students, consultants, technicians and other unnamed members of the team, ie those not designated as key investigators, are added at the preparation stage of "Timeline & Specific Aims". However, QNRF's online submission system will not allow participation of any personnel that have not previously been identified with a "collaborative institution" i.e., one that has already been added at the "Collaborative Institution information" stage (third panel down, on the left-hand side). Thus, even for unnamed team members, such as a consultant or grad student, their respective organization or institution must have already been added to the proposal (as an "official partner") before the budget and, therefore, the proposal, can be completed and made ready for submission. Modify date: 09/27/2011 14:46:07

Please let me know whether the Institution's Endorsement Letter needs to be submitted by the submitting Institution, the collaborative Institution, or both?

The Institutional Endorsement letter should be submitted by the Submitting institution at the time of vetting of the proposal. Modify date: 09/27/2011 14:42:46

Can QNRF upload Latex template of the research plan on QNRF website for LPIs?

QNRF cannot upload this software onto the website. However, the LPI can use any software to write the research plan, as long as the PDF file produced is aligned with QNRF research plan template and the guidelines for fonts and margins. Modify date: 09/27/2011 14:41:25

Is it required for the lead PI outside Qatar to obtain the Supporting Letter for Key investigators that are faculty members of the submitting institution?

No, supporting letter is not required for key investigators affiliated to the submitting institution, as the RO will vet the proposal and submit the required endorsement letter. Modify date: 09/27/2011 14:40:39

If the publications are books not available as electronic files, should they be submitted as hardcopy or is it enough to write the titles?

You need to write the title, chapter, the author's name, the publisher and the ISBN number. Book chapters could be scanned and uploaded. Online links can also be provided if available. Modify date: 09/27/2011 14:39:04

Please clarify if the term 'key investigators' refers only to the Lead PI, Co-LPI, PIs and co-PIs?

Yes, this is correct. Modify date: 09/27/2011 14:36:46

How can I update my CV?

CVs can be updated by using the 'My Profile' tab at the home page of LPI account. Modify date: 09/27/2011 14:35:31

Can any of the key investigators (co-PI) login and change the proposal they are participating in and how can we make sure that it is not done without the permission of the Lead PI?

No, none of the key investigators can login to the proposal of the lead PI and change its content.  They can only review it. Once the Lead PI invites any of the key investigators they can review the proposal to decide whether to accept participating or not. Modify date: 09/27/2011 14:34:38

Is it possible to submit proposals in Arabic?

Proposals must be submitted in English except for a limited number of research areas in which the primary international language of research is Arabic (for example, Islamic Studies, Qatari law, etc). In such cases an abstract in English must be submitted. Even if certain proposal is submitted in Arabic, the Letter of Intent should be submitted in English. Modify date: 09/27/2011 14:33:46

Is there a limit on the number of consultants per proposal?

No, there is no fixed number of consultants per proposal. However, the number of consultants, their experience and critical contribution to a project should be thoroughly justified. Modify date: 09/27/2011 14:32:49

Who should sign the supporting letter? Can the RO sign the letter?

A supporting letter, using institutional official letter head, should be signed by the Dean or equivalent from the collaborative institutions and stamped with the official stamp of the institution. Modify date: 09/27/2011 14:31:14

I am a lead PI in an institution outside Qatar. The Co-LPI is from an institution inside Qatar. Which institution is the submitting institution?

Only institutions inside Qatar can become submitting institutions. In your case, as the Lead PI of an institution based outside Qatar, your institution will become the collaborating institution. Modify date: 09/27/2011 14:30:01

What would be the content of the supporting letter provided by an institution?

The content should include a statement to the effect that they have no objection to such collaboration. Please see the template on QNRF's website- in the download center of NPRP. Modify date: 09/27/2011 14:29:04

We are receiving letters from industry supporting our proposed work, or confirming that we may utilize their facilities for our proposed research. Is there an appropriate location in the proposal to attach these letters?

Supporting documents can be uploaded at the "other supporting documents" section in the online submission. Modify date: 09/27/2011 14:26:21

Can the online proposal preparation be done in intervals (complete some part and finish the rest at a later date)?

Yes, you can write or edit any section and after saving it you can log off and continue later on. Modify date: 09/27/2011 14:24:01

Should all institutions participating in a project provide supporting documents or should it be submitted only by the PI's institution?

They should all supply the relevant documents independently. Modify date: 09/27/2011 14:23:02

Does the NPRP ID in the template of the supporting letter refers to the PIs or to the proposal?

It refers to the proposal. Modify date: 09/27/2011 14:21:35

I have submitted an LOI to the NPRP and I am interested in changing the focus of the proposal. Is it possible to change the orientation of the proposal at this stage?

Unfortunately you cannot, at this stage, edit the research field or key words. However, you can slightly edit the title and the abstract during the proposal preparation phase. Modify date: 09/27/2011 14:20:43

We have a faculty member who registered for the NPRP with two proposals. Since he will not be an employee in our institution in Qatar, please advise what procedure should be followed?

QNRF policy does allow a lead PI to reside outside Qatar provided that he/she has a Co-LPI that resides in Qatar. If this LPI starts preparing his/her proposal , then he/she needs to identify a Co-LPI from an institution inside Qatar. Modify date: 09/27/2011 14:19:56

I understand that the font size and margins are set for the proposal under the proposal guidelines; I would like to know whether or not we can put something in the header or footer of the different pages of the proposal?

It is not allowed to change or add anything in the header or footer of the research plan. Modify date: 09/27/2011 14:19:09

I notice on the form page for preparation of the proposal that the items to be prepared no longer include a one page Specific Aims. Will Specific Aims be directly typed into the form fields on the submission webpage or is this information no longer reques

Yes, the specific aims can be directly typed into the form fields on the submission webpage. Modify date: 09/27/2011 12:29:59

Does a non-Qatari institution acting as the Research Office need to register online with QNRF, to vet the submitted proposals ?

Only the ROs of the submitting institutions inside Qatar, whether they are Qatari or non-Qatari, are required to register online in order to be able to vet. Modify date: 09/27/2011 12:26:26

Is it possible to modify my Information as PI.

Yes, you can do so any time by clicking on My profile tab, unless you want to change your institution and in that case you have to submit a special request to QNRF. Modify date: 09/27/2011 12:25:38

As a lead PI, how can I add Key investigators to the proposal?

All key investigators will need to register themselves through the applicant registration channel so that the LPI can add them during the proposal preparation phase by providing their e-mail addresses. Modify date: 09/27/2011 12:20:29

I am a collaborator in the research project with another professor and at this stage I just wish to register my name with your office.

All investigators can register online. It's the Lead PI who has the role to choose the research team. Modify date: 09/27/2011 12:19:21

If I am a PI who registered last year, can I use the same username and password?

For all applicants using QNRF submission site, username and password remain valid for the next cycle. Modify date: 09/27/2011 12:16:01

I tried to register, but when I was entering the information, my university was not on your list of institutions as displayed in the drop-down box.. Shall I leave that box empty?

Please add your institution by selecting "Add New Institution" which is an option at the top of the list. Modify date: 09/27/2011 12:14:34

Is it possible to have 2 Principal Investigators for the same project? If yes, could we submit only one single LoI with 2 Principal Investigators?

Yes, a proposal can have more than one PI in its research team, however one Lead PI- the owner of the scientific idea- should be identified who in his/her turn should submit the LOI. Modify date: 09/27/2011 11:30:01

We are in the process of selecting a suitable Qatari partner for our project. We understand that, regarding submission of the Letter of Intent (deadline) at that time there is no need to have a Qatari partner

Yes, at the LoI submission stage you don't need to have partnered with PIs inside Qatar, but you must identify your partners and their RO before the proposal submission deadline. Modify date: 09/27/2011 11:25:16

Please clarify if it is required that all key investigators need to be registered by the LOI deadline or by the Final Submission deadline.

They don't need to register by the LoI deadline, but they do need to register in time for you to select them during your proposal preparation stage. Modify date: 09/27/2011 11:17:24

If the definition of a topic falls between two Frascati classifications, can we register both areas or shall we select just one?

QNRF submission channel provides the tool to select two relevant disciplines if required for multidisciplinary proposals. Modify date: 09/27/2011 11:15:45

I was wondering if it is possible to remove an already submitted LOI and exchange with a new one?

Yes, you can do so by deleting the original LOI and submit a new one by clicking on to the proposal status tab. Modify date: 09/27/2011 11:12:20

Can we submit a research proposal on a topic, whose invention has already been patented (international patent) by another Institution out side Qatar?

No, the research proposal is considered duplicated. QNRF policy is to decline duplicated research applications. Modify date: 09/26/2011 15:05:53

We have two collaborative institutions and both need an IRB for the work being done. Should I submit one letter for IRB commitment from both universities or one for each university?

You will need to upload two letters of commitment for both institutions during proposal preparation. Modify date: 09/26/2011 15:04:03

When is the deadline for submitting the ethical compliance? You mention in the RFP "prior to funding". Is there a specific date?

The ethical compliance should be submitted no later than two months after the fund results announcement, during the announced pre-funding stage timeline. Modify date: 09/26/2011 15:02:12

For an experimental chemistry proposal, it is not clear what statement you are looking for with regard to "hazards". Can you clarify what is needed in the ethics statement regarding hazards?

QNRF requires the LPI to submit approval from the appropriate Institutional committee, that the Lab is certified (safe to operate) and the research team received the required training course to conduct this project. This procedure is to protect all the research team from any biological (viral, bacterial, fungal…), and chemical (Carcinogens, radioactive and flammables) agents.   Such committees for example, may be Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) for research involving bio-hazardous materials, or equivalent ethics board or committee as described above. Modify date: 09/26/2011 15:01:14

If the proposal is funded, who should submit the IRB approval?

The LPI  should submit the IRB approval letter online, which will be vetted by the RO, and also as part of the hard copy package during the pre-funding submissions. Modify date: 09/26/2011 14:55:42

For collaborating proposals, which IRB should be submitted?

All institutions participating in the proposal and involved in the human subjects research should submit an IRB. If the work is carried out by a research institution within Qatar, involving human or animal subjects, then Qatar National Ethics and Regulations should be applied. The Qatar National Ethics Policy, together with guidelines and regulations is available at Qatar Supreme Council of Health SCH. The submitting institution's IRB inside Qatar should also be registered with the SCH. Modify date: 09/26/2011 14:53:42

We would like to request the exclusion of 2 out of 5 peer reviewers for a resubmitted proposal, how is that possible?

QNRF always evaluate the peer reviewer's performance and flags-out those proven to be unfair. However, the selection of previous peer reviewers rest entirely with QNRF. Modify date: 09/26/2011 14:41:04

According to what criteria does QNRF evaluate the PI?

QNRF doesn't evaluate the PI.  It is the role of the independent peer reviewers to evaluate the PI and his or her research team. Modify date: 09/26/2011 14:39:36

Where do you get the referees (peer reviewers) from? Are they local or mainly from the U.S and Europe?

QNRF follows established international criteria in the peer reviewing process. All PRs are selected from all over the world, but not locally. Modify date: 09/26/2011 14:38:55

Can you elaborate more on the review process?

At this point, QNRF has adopted a model where a minimum of three PRs and maximum of five PRs, of similar research interest as the submitted proposal, are selected from the QNRF database. All PRs in QNRF are globally selected. Based on the evaluation criteria and scores, each PR, independently, states his/her critiques, comments and review in each criterion, reflected by a score. The NPRP evaluation criterion and scores are described in the RFP. The PRs evaluations are compiled and the final scores are derived from the median of each evaluation criterion. The cut-off line is determined by a combination of the overall scores and the fund available to each cycle. Modify date: 09/26/2011 14:38:13

What happens if the internal agreement in a submitting institution stipulate a share 0 for that institution it will only go to the department and the inventor, does that mean that Qf/QNRF will not require anything?

QF IP policy shall prevail. Modify date: 09/26/2011 14:32:43

If a PI from a company is collaborating with an academic partner, would the awarded budget go to the company or the institution?

The award will go to the submitting research institution (known as the "awardee") whether it is a private company or an academic institution which will manage the disbursement of the fund. Modify date: 09/26/2011 14:29:17

Can funding money be allocated directly to a UK university? What percentage of Full Economic Costing (FEC) is available (most UK research councils are 80% and charities range from 20% to 80%)?

Regardless of their geographical location, all applicants to the NPRP must partner with a Qatari institution (referred to in QNRF documentation as the 'Awardee'). That institution will then assume responsibility for disbursement of the award and although funds cannot be transferred directly from QNRF to an overseas institution, the Awardee institution can make such a transfer as long as it is in line with the Lead PI's approved budget. FEC is a costing methodology now used in all UK higher education institutions to help calculate the full economic cost of individual research projects and to assess the potential for recovery of that cost. Whilst QNRF recognizes that the ongoing under-recovery of costs cannot be sustained by any research institution, it does currently lim it the contribution to an institution's indirect costs to a maximum of 20% of the total amount awarded, as the primary purpose of the award is to fund research. Modify date: 09/26/2011 14:24:13

I see that QF/QNRF requires the universities (organizations) to share half the revenues allocated to them (the university share not the department or inventors shares). Does that apply irrespective of the amount of money a given organizations gets?

QNRF signs the FMA with the awardees (submitting institutions) and hence the share will be fixed irrespective with their agreement with the sub-awardee. Modify date: 09/26/2011 14:22:30

I work in an institution in Qatar. Can I be one of the local peer reviewers who review the NPRP proposals?

No, QNRF does not use local peer reviewers for evaluation of NPRP proposals. Modify date: 09/26/2011 14:19:52

I am peer reviewer in the NPRP program. Since I would like to take part in an application I want to refrain from any reviewing activity for this round in order to avoid conflicts of interest. How can I express this formally?

This is inline with QNRF policy and to ensure compliance QNRF PR channel will not allow assigning any participant as a PR in the same cycle. You would need to send a request through the IT online support channel in order to change your status from peer reviewer to an applicant; this will open the channel for submission and it will close the other channel for peer reviewing. Modify date: 09/26/2011 14:18:46

Deadline for the LOI submission is too short to find a collaborative partner in Qatar, before submission of the LOI. Do I need to identify a partner at the LOI submission stage?

No, the LOI submission does not require identification of collaborative partner in Qatar. It is required by the next stage of completion of research proposal submission stage. Modify date: 09/26/2011 14:15:35

I have three consultants and I need to add their institutions as Collaborative Institutions in the proposal. Is this ok? If yes, I should add a supporting letter from this institution. But the template of a supporting letter is for key investigators.

Consultant is not considered as a key investigator thereby you don't need to add their institutions as collaborative institutions, but if you like you can upload their supporting letter in any format through Miscellaneous Document(s)section in the proposal preparation page. Modify date: 09/26/2011 14:14:27

The Lead PI is from outside Qatar but has no collaborator from Qatar. Can he submit the full proposal to QNRF?

No, the LPI must first identify a Key investigator who can act as a co-LPI inside Qatar and who will be affiliated with the submitting institution inside Qatar. Modify date: 09/26/2011 14:13:18

What makes an institute outside Qatar a collaborating institution and is a supporting letter required from that institution?

Collaborative Institution: Any academic, government, or private organization in or outside the State of Qatar collaborating with the submitting institution in conducting the research proposal. Therefore, any such institute should submit a supporting letter indicating the participants and their roles from that institution. This letter will be uploaded online by the Lead PI during proposal submission. Modify date: 09/26/2011 14:10:49

We had been told earlier that Student tuitions are not included in the budget, but the current RFP mentions it. Please let us know if we can include MS or PhD student tuitions in the budget or not

Yes, it is correct that our previous policy did not include student tuition and fees in the budget. However the policy has since been revised and now graduate tuition and fees are included in the budget up to USD 30,000. Modify date: 09/26/2011 13:57:57

Can we include conference expenses as part of our budget?

NPRP allows budgeting travel expenses to conferences, but does NOT allow organizing conferences/workshops as part of the approved budget for the proposal. If you are interested in funding for conferences, we encourage you  apply in the future, through your research office in Qatar,  for conference sponsorship opportunity offered by QNRF through the Conference and Workshop Sponsorship Program(CWSP); the approval of which will be subject  to the policies and guidelines shown in the following link: http://qnrf.org/activities/wcsc/goals_guid/ Modify date: 09/26/2011 13:56:30

Is the $350,000 maximum per year is the sum of direct and indirect costs? or is it $350,000 maximum direct costs on top of which the indirect costs are added?

The 350,000USD will include both the direct and indirect costs. Modify date: 09/26/2011 13:54:04

On a project with multiple universities listed as collaborators, may I have the submitting university handle all of the budget for travel, or must each university for each key investigator manage funds for travel?

Each institution should manage its own budget. Modify date: 09/26/2011 13:50:37

Is funding permitted to be used to compensate individuals who complete a survey for the research purpose?

The payments are not considered as incentives but rather as compensation for their efforts as long as they are reasonable; such payments should be classified as miscellaneous. Modify date: 09/26/2011 13:46:33

I reside in Qatar but I visit our mother campus university in the US every other semester. Can the part of work I do for research in the US be considered as part of the 50% effort in Qatar?

No, because you are supposed to budget funds for that part of the work to be done by you on the mother campus. Therefore, it is considered as an effort outside Qatar, even though you reside in Qatar. However, If the work is done free of charge, then it is considered "free effort" made outside Qatar, but will not be counted as effort inside Qatar. The rationale is to transfer technology and expertise, as well as developing a research culture inside Qatar. Modify date: 09/26/2011 13:45:27

How can I calculate the 20% indirect cost?

Total Budget(eg. 350,000USD)= Direct Cost (DC) + Indirect Cost (IC) If the Indirect cost in your institution is 20% of the direct cost then IC = 0.2*DC To calculate IC from the Total cost it will be; IC= 0.1666*Total Budget Modify date: 09/26/2011 13:44:20

Is funding of small proposals that require US$20,000 competing with those requiring US$350,000?

Yes, all proposals will be evaluated equally regardless of the total budget requested. Modify date: 09/26/2011 13:43:34

Is there a limit to how much money one could allocate to pay consultants?

There is no maximum limit on consultants' fees. However, Lead PIs should keep in mind those consultants' fees and justifications will be evaluated by the peer reviewers. Modify date: 09/26/2011 13:42:40

Does the money spent for attending training workshop or conference outside Qatar for a PI with a full-time employment with a university located inside Qatar qualify as ``Inside-Qatar" or ``Outside-Qatar" expense?

Such expenditure is classified as "inside Qatar" as defined all travel expenses from or to Qatar will be part of the 65%, while travel cost for research team located outside Qatar and intending to travel to other than Qatar will be part of the 35%. Modify date: 09/26/2011 13:41:43

Under what budget category does the purchase of survey data go as a line item? Equipment or miscellaneous? The data (survey data) can be as expensive as equipment as in social research it is the equivalent of a medical researcher purchasing equipment for

As per the RFP, the Miscellaneous category includes communications, administrative and other similar costs. It is also subject to a cap of 5% of the total annual budget and thus including the purchase of survey data means that it would quickly exceed this limit. In such case "Supplies and Materials" is a suitable budget category for purchasing survey data. Modify date: 09/26/2011 13:40:52

Does QNRF cover the family expenses for a researcher who needs to go abroad for about 2 or 3 months?

QNRF does not fund travel expenses to spouse or family members accompanying the researcher going abroad to continue his research. QNRF funds travel expenses of any member of the research team as per the member institution(s) travel policies provided that such expenses are covered in the original budget and justifications are given. Modify date: 09/26/2011 13:39:35

Which travel policy should be followed when key investigators plan to work in Qatar?

It should follow the travel policy of the host institution inside Qatar. Modify date: 09/26/2011 13:38:50

Could you please confirm if the 20% indirect costs are part of the $350,000 maximum/year? Therefore, $280,000 is direct and $70,000 is indirect.

No , indirect budget is limited to 20% of the direct budget not the total budget. Modify date: 09/26/2011 13:37:48