Assessment process

All applications to the Dementia Grants Program undergo a rigorous peer-review process overseen by members of the Scientific Panel.

Academic Assessment

The following assessment criteria will be used for rating applications:

1.  Scientific merit and quality (40% weight)

This criterion considers the significance and value of the proposed research, along with the clarity of the research aim(s), hypotheses or research objectives, and the suitability of the research methodology and research plan in achieving the research aim(s). The general scientific relevance should be evident in the project proposal, and the research methodology should be sound and clearly presented. Projects must also be feasible and realistic within the available timeframe and budget. The roles of the Associate Investigators to support the project will also be considered.

2.  Track record and independence of the applicant (30% weight)

This criterion considers whether the applicant’s previous research experience demonstrates they are capable of successfully undertaking the proposed research and publishing the outcomes. Track record (career impact statement, research training, publications, supervision, awards and other relevant experience) will be assessed relative to opportunity, including career stage.

3.  Innovation and/or significance (20% weight)

This criterion considers the novelty and originality of the proposed research as well as its overall significance to the field. The criterion considers, as appropriate to the topic and scope of the project, the extent to which it has the capacity (if successful) to introduce innovative and new research directions, treatments, interventions or models of care etc. to the field and/or the potential for it to have a direct, beneficial impact on policy, clinical practice and, ultimately, people living with dementia, their families and carers.

4.  Knowledge translation (10% weight)

This criterion considers whether the applicant has articulated how their research findings will be translated into practice and/or how the research will be applied in the real world (over the short, medium or long term) to achieve the stated benefits.
This criterion will be assessed relative to the opportunity for the applicant to undertake knowledge translation activities within the scope of the project.

• For projects at the ‘discovery’ research phase, a knowledge gap may be identified and the potential for new knowledge is clearly outlined (e.g. research that changes our understanding of the causes or progression of the disease, describes the path to translation).
• For projects closer to implementation, how the research findings will be translated into practice and/or how the research will be applied in the real world to achieve the stated benefits will be articulated (e.g. generate awareness, facilitate practice or policy change).
   

Dementia Advocate Assessment

The following assessment criteria will be used by dementia advocate members of the Scientific Panel for rating those applications that have been shortlisted:

1.  Importance of the research and potential benefit (60% weight)

This criterion considers the rationale for, and importance of, the proposed research and the potential for it to have a direct, beneficial impact on the lives of people impacted by dementia and/or the wider public. The innovation and originality of the proposed research as well as how the research findings will be translated into practice and/or how the research will be applied in the real world will also be considered.

2.  Involvement of the people impacted by this research (40% weight)

This criterion considers whether and how people living with dementia, carers, family members or friends of someone diagnosed with dementia, or other relevant members of the public have been involved in the research.

The Dementia Advocate and academic assessment scores will be combined, with the dementia advocate assessment comprising 20% of the overall score.