RITC

The following outline is meant to assist researchers in the preparation of a brief 2-3 page concept paper:
 

1. Rationale/Problem Justification

• Briefly describe the overall context for the specific tobacco control research issue you propose to address.  Focus on information relevant for the research question, including relevant research to date.
• Provide a brief description of the social, political, institutional, economic dimensions of the problem to be addressed and how this research could contribute to this problem’s understanding and solution.

2. Objectives

• Describe clearly and succinctly the overall research question to be addressed through the study.
• Clearly state each of the specific research objectives.

3. Activities/Methodology

• Provide an outline of the research methodology and rationale for its choice.
• Describe the research methods to be used and how they will answer each of the specific research questions/objectives (survey, qualitative methods or others).
• Where will the research be conducted?
• What is the population group to be targeted?
• Describe any training activities that may be required.
• Describe any social, political, gender, or ethical considerations pertaining to the conduct of the research.
• Describe any relationships or collaboration with other local, national, or international institutions.

• Summarize any important capacity development at the individual level among research team members or others involved in the research, or any capacity development expected at the institutional level in terms of building research management or administrative capacity of the recipient institution and/or collaborating institutions.

5. Expected Outcomes/Impact/Utilization

• What specific policy changes are expected to result from the research and at what level (national, regional, local)?
• What specific program/intervention would benefit from the research findings?
• What are the expected impacts and benefits of the research in terms of human capacity building, knowledge creation, etc.

6. Dissemination

• Provide an overview of the dissemination plan, including reports, policy briefs, seminars, articles, media events, as well as target audience and language of communication.

7. Research Institution and Researchers

• Provide a description of the institution that will be responsible for receiving and administering the research grant, including a description of the legal status of the institution.
• State the names and briefly describe the qualifications of the project personnel.  Indicate time allocation per person.

8. Timetable

• What is the expected duration of the study/tentative timing of major events and activities?

9. Budget

• What is the total amount of funding requested?  Provide a budget breakdown.  Indicate whether any other funding has been obtained.

Please submit the concept paper by e-mail attachment to ritc@idrc.ca or in hard copy to the following address: