NSERC-NRCan partnership to fund research on small modular reactors
Program Overview
- In support of Canada’s Small Modular Reactor Action Plan, NSERC is partnering with Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) to fund research on SMRs. NRCan has set aside approximately $1,000,000 per year, for 4 years, to co-fund research projects through NSERC’s Alliance grants program.
- Full program terms here.
Deadlines
- Expression of Interest to NRCan: April 11, 2023
- Request an expression of interest (EOI) form via email to smr-prm@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca. Include your area of expertise in your initial email to NRCan.
- Full application to NSERC: August 1, 2023*
- NRCan will select a limited number of applicants from among those who submit EOIs to submit a full application to NSERC. Invited eligible researchers may apply for an Alliance grant with a duration of 1-4 years. Funding decisions will be made based on NSERC’s Alliance grant application and review process.
- *Application packages should be sent to UBC ORS five (5) working days before agency deadline, with Risk Assessment Questionnaire completed and signed by JP Heale, if required.
Partner Eligibility
- NRCan must be included in your application as a partner organization.
- Additional partners from industry, government, and not-for-profit organizations are encouraged to participate, as per NSERC’s Alliance grants program.
Subject Matter Eligibility
- Proposed research projects must address at least one of the following research objectives (further detail from NSERC here):
- Robust supply chains for SMRs
- SMR fuel supply
- Radioactive waste management and minimization for SMRs
Value
- The amount that may be requested from NRCan is $20,000 - $100,000 per year, for 1-4 years. Total award value will depend on additional partner organizations’ contributions (if applicable), and NSERC’s contributions, to be calculated using the Alliance cost-sharing formula.
SPARC Support and Contact: Consultations and reviews of draft applications are offered. Please contact: Erin Evoy