Call for Research Grants

EAES Research Grant Projects

The overall objective of the EAES grants is to strengthen the clinical, educational and basic science research in minimally invasive interventions by supporting novel research activities across the EAES. The intention is to create a collaborative culture of scientific research combining high quality projects with opportunities for young clinicians to address the need of our populations. The EAES believes in inclusivity for all of its projects, giving all clinicians a voice with particular emphasis on our future leaders and members.

We would encourage researchers, involved in novel projects with sound methodology and realistic milestones, to apply. Applications should be prepared with a focus on all the requirements and including a fair mix of experience. We wish you all the very best of luck and look forward to receiving your applications.

Submission deadline: 15 November 2023
Application: Online application is required. Documents must be uploaded as 1 pdf file.
Grant amount range: €10,000 – €15,000
Eligibility:  The Research grant program is open to any investigator who is an EAES member currently in a surgery-related endoscopic/laparoscopic practice. 

Bonus points

This year a project will receive bonus points when the researh focusses on a specific field. This will give you a small headstart in being able to receive the grant. However, it doesn’t mean that research proposals in other fields are not important and do not have a change of winning anymore.
We’ll be positively waiting those projects that look at surgical quality. Particularly those that use data analysis and artificial intelligence.

Submission format and content

The following documents are required and should be uploaded in 1PDF file:

1. Abstract (maximum 400 words)
2. Proposal containing the following sections:
   • Study title
   • Principle applicant (title, contact details, role in the project)
   • Co-applicants (title, contact details, roles in the project)
   • Duration of the project (including the start date)
   • Hypothesis / Aims
   • Background and state of the art, including relevant bibliography
   • Presentation of the hypothesis and description of the proposal objectives
   • Methodology, inclusion and exclusion criteria, study design, variables, data collect and statistic analysis
   • Work plan, broking down by task, investigators and timetable
   • Last five years report on the scientific and technical background of the research team
   • Description of the proposal’s scientific and social interest
3. A detailed budget in Euros. Details for consumables, equipment, travel, etc.
4. Curriculum Vitae of first and senior applicants (maximum 2 pages each).

Criteria of evaluation for obtaining the EAES funding

Proposals submitted to the EAES grant committee will be judged on the following criteria:

1. Research question:
   • The importance of the question in relation to that particular field of research in MAS
   • The novelty and originality of the proposal
   • Clarity of the hypothesis – research objectives
2. Research relevance
   • Needs of patients, users or hospital staff
   • Advances of minimal access techniques
   • Healthcare system
3. Research feasibility:
   • Whether the objectives are achievable, with realistic goals, timescales and/or milestones within the limited fund
   • The appropriateness of the design and methodology
   • The strengths and weaknesses (major or minor) of proposed investigations.
4. Applicants track record – potential:
   Overall opinion of the applicant(s)’ standing in the field, track record and potential for delivering the proposed research. The evaluation should include the support to young researchers by established team.
5. Project Management
   A clear management structure should be in place with clear responsibilities for each member of the application.
6. Resources/staffing
   Do the equipment, staffing and running costs seem appropriate?
7. Dissemination plan
   The dissemination plan depends on the nature of the project (clinical, educational or technology based.
8. Research Impact
   The impact of the research will be assessed based on the proposed theme and objectives. Examples are:
   • Impact on patient care, healthcare system
   • Is it new or better replacement technology
   • The potential for IP and commercial exploitation
   • Cost-effectiveness
   • Educational value.
9. Long-term perspective and sustainability
   The program needs to have the potential for long-term sustainability according to its underlying concept.
   Special consideration will be given to:
   • Programs developed for geographically and economically less advantaged areas within Europe
   • Programs aiming at excellence of up-coming young doctors in clinical and basic science of endoscopic surgery
   • Programs developed to build up networks of clinical and/or basic scientists in the field of endoscopic surgery across Europe.

Reports: The successful applicant is required to submit biannual progress reports to the EAES Research committee. Due to the limited funding, there is no overhead costs to be covered and only direct costs will be funded.
Upon completion of the project, EAES requires a final scientific and financial report. All publications and abstracts must acknowledge support from EAES. Manuscripts arising from the project shall be submitted to surgical endoscopy subjective to the peer review process.