About HIV/AIDS Research Initiative

The CIHR HIV/AIDS Research Initiative is managed by the CIHR Institute of Infection and Immunity (III) under the leadership of Dr. Marc Ouellette.

The CIHR HIV/AIDS Research Initiative is guided by the CIHR HIV/AIDS Research Advisory Committee (CHARAC), which is comprised of members representing multiple CIHR Institutes, various HIV/AIDS research pillars, government, and HIV/AIDS community organizations. Similarly, the Community-based research program is guided by the wisdom of a Steering Committee, comprised of researchers and community members from both the general and Aboriginal community. Nominations for both these committees are launched regularly on the CIHR website.

In 2007-08, CHARAC led a lengthy consultation process to develop a strategic plan for CIHR's HIV/AIDS Research Initiative. This plan entitled "Canadian Institutes of Health Research HIV/AIDS Research Initiative Strategic Plan 2008-2013" sets out six priority research themes, with which all HIV/AIDS research support programs will be aligned. The priority themes are:

  • health systems, services and policy;
  • resilience, vulnerability and determinants of health;
  • prevention technologies and interventions;
  • drug development, toxicities and resistance;
  • pathogenesis; and
  • issues of co-infection and co-morbidity.

Moving forward, these priorities will be used to guide CIHR's strategic investments in HIV/AIDS research over the period 2008-13.

Funding Opportunities

The CIHR HIV/AIDS Research Initiative offers ongoing funding opportunities for both new and experienced investigators across the spectrum of HIV/AIDS research. In addition to supporting operating grants and training awards through twice yearly open funding competitions, targeted Request for Applications are launched on an ongoing basis that address gaps and opportunities in the Canadian HIV/AIDS research landscape. Further support is available for knowledge translation activities and workshop support.

Funding opportunities available under the CIHR HIV/AIDS Research Initiative can be found online.