Dr. Akanimo Odon, Head of Strategic Partnerships, Lancaster University, England, said connections between research producers and users were inadequate to secure funding for research and implement it.
Odon stated this while presenting a paper titled “Supporting the African Research Community With Expertise from the UK-Africa Diaspora” at the 7th African Scientific Research and Innovation Council (ASRIC) congress on Wednesday in Zanzibar, Tanzania.
Odon, who doubles as the chair of ASRIC Diaspora, United Kingdom chapter, said securing research funding can be challenging and competitive, especially in times of budget cuts and uncertainty.
“Research funding and grants are essential for advancing your academic career and conducting impactful studies.
“Not only does research play a significant role in influencing decisions and policies across various sectors, but it is also essential in expanding our understanding of the world and finding solutions to global issues.
“Funding for research is the catalyst that fuels groundbreaking discoveries. At the heart of groundbreaking discoveries lies funding, the catalyst that fuels innovation, he said.
Odon added that funding for research was not just about financial sustenance but about unlocking the doors to securing resources.
“Funding enabling researchers to traverse the path from ideation to innovation that makes tangible contributions to human knowledge.
“It enables researchers to push boundaries, facilitating access to cutting-edge technologies, specialised equipment, and expert collaborations,’’ he said.
Odon further noted why identifying the best types of funding and applying for research grants was important for researchers.
He emphasised the importance of unravelling the intricacies of funding for research, depending on the types of research funding available, and how to navigate the funding pool in research.
“Unfortunately, it is common to see potentially valuable research initiatives languishing due to inability to access resources or funding,’’ he said.
Odon said one way any researcher can increase their chances of success is to partner with other researchers who share their interests, goals, and expertise.
He added that he was committed to exposing African researchers to opportunities for research funding at various stages of their careers.
“I mentor African researchers and discuss concepts necessary to obtain funding for research, which is a crucial step towards initiating a research program,’’ he said.
Odon disclosed that almost all granting agencies are motivated by the vision of their organisation and urged researchers to align the research objectives in their grant application with the funding agency’s goals.
He said, “The researchers must reshape their research question to suit the agency’s call for proposals.
“It is the applicant’s responsibility to choose a funding opportunity that aligns with his or her own research goals.
“The funding body’s objectives are always listed in the call for applications.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)