Over the past 17 years, ACH2 has supported translational research in the areas of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), hepatitis B virus (HBV) and now human T-lymphotropic virus type-1 (HTLV-1). In 2021, ACH2 will continue to support translational research into these four viral infections.

ACH2 is seeking expressions of interest (EoI) in applied research from qualified scientists to fund research projects aimed at:
i) developing vaccine candidates for HIV, HBV subtypes, HCV or HTLV-1; ii) developing preventatives such as HIV microbicides and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP);
iii) cure and treatment interventions for HIV, HBV, or HTLV-1, including immunotherapy
iv) novel diagnostics and prognostics for HIV, HBV, HCV, HTLV-1 or hepatitis B/C/HIV/HTLV1 co-infection;
v) molecular tools for tracking epidemics caused by these viruses; and vi) development of new tests for supporting vaccine and antiviral trials. Basic research is not eligible, and grants aimed at development of new direct-acting antivirals against HCV are also not eligible.
Grants based on the specimens obtained from the Immunovirology Research Network collected from clinical trials or cohort studies of patients with HIV, HBV or HCV are also encouraged.

These grants are intended to complement and translate basic research in the virology and immunology of HIV, HBV, HCV and HTLV-1, usually initially funded by other granting bodies.

Funding is available from 1 January 2021 to 30 September 2021 for grants up to $100,000.

One EoI per chief investigator (CI)-A will be considered.

Eligibility: CIs must be equivalent to NHMRC PSP 4, usually with existing salary support for the duration of funding. The eligibility criteria for CIs (see Guidelines on website) will be strictly interpreted by the Scientific Advisory Committee.
ACH2 grants will be awarded to the administering organisation through which the CIA submits their application. All awards will be governed by a participant agreement (between the participant organisation and The Westmead Institute for Medical Research representing ACH2).

All administering organisations awarded a grant will be required to enter such an agreement.

Guidelines explaining further details and eligibility criteria of this funding is available at www.ach2.org.au/apply or: Joanne Camilleri Administration Officer, ACH2 The Westmead Institute for Medical Research PO Box 412 Westmead NSW 2145 Phone: (02) 8627-3004. Email: joanne.camilleri@sydney.edu.au