Funders’ Forum for Social Science Research on Infectious Diseases

GloPID-R mobilizes funders interested in advancing the important work of Social Science Research through its Funders’ Forum and a new mapping initiative.

There is growing recognition that social science research is a necessary component to informing effective epidemic preparedness and response. However, the integration of social sciences research into preparedness and response remains, for the most part, delayed, inconsistent, and peripheral.

Established in 2018, the GloPID-R Funders’ Forum for Social Science Research on Infectious Diseases (‘Funders’ Forum’) aims to maximize the contributions that social science research can make to preventing and responding to new and re-emerging infectious diseases by 1) raising awareness for the need to invest in social science research on infectious diseases, 2) promoting and coordinating international research investments in this area, and 3) supporting funders who are interested in making their first investments in this area.

Working on behalf of all GloPID-R members, the Funders’ Forum convenes national research agencies, international organizations, and philanthropic organizations and foundations to identify synergies, align agendas, and coordinate funding activities.

The Funders’ Forum leadership group currently includes: the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (Chair), European Commission, UK Department for International Development, South Africa Medical Research Council, and Wellcome Trust (Vice-Chair).

Those who are interested in learning more about the Funders’ Forum are welcome to attend the annual in-person meeting on May 14, 2019 immediately following the 2019 GloPID-R General Assembly.

For more information about the meeting or the group, contact Morgan Lay, Policy Advisor, Canadian Institutes of Health Research. (morgan.lay@globalstrategylab.org).

Social Sciences Research Mapping Project

SoNAR-Global and GOARN R Social Sciences have collaborated to develop a map of social sciences research conducted for the Ebola Response in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring countries. The interactive maps show social sciences research conducted by IFRC, UNICEF, WHO, MSF and the SSHAP, among many others, and offer a vision of where and what kinds of research efforts are taking place.

The maps will be updated regularly.

The initiatives welcome contributions to the maps from organizations and actors conducting social sciences operational research for the Ebola response in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring countries.

For more information, contact Tamara Giles-Vernick and/or Nina Gobat.