New Frontiers in Research Fund (NFRF) Exploration 2026: Strategies for Success – Jul. 29, 2026
Session Description
July 29 2026 @ 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
The Division of the Vice-President, Research & Innovation is hosting a webinar for the University of Toronto community on the upcoming New Frontiers in Research Fund (NFRF) - Exploration 2026 competition.
The objective of the Exploration stream is to support interdisciplinary research that is high-risk and high-reward. Researchers are encouraged to propose projects that defy current paradigms, bring disciplines together in bold, innovative and unexpected ways, with the potential for transformative impact, even where there is a risk of failure.
This session will feature a faculty discussion focused on sharing insights into the adjudication process, best practices, and proposal development tips.
This session will also include information on common weaknesses in unsuccessful applications, as well as a general overview of the NFRF-Exploration application process and deadlines, including research security considerations.
A question & answer period will follow.
Presenters:
Panel
- Elizabeth Dhuey, Professor, Department of Management, University of Toronto Scarborough
- Zahra Shakeri, Assistant Professor, Health Informatics and Information Visualization, Dalla Lana School of Public Health
VPRI Speakers
- Andrea Gill – Director, Institutional Initiatives, RSO
- Golnaz Farhat – Manager, Research Development & Inclusive Excellence, RSO
- Jenny Korolik – Research Funding Manager, RSO
- Edward Kim - Research Security Advisor, RST
Learning Objectives
After this session, attendees will have a better understanding of:
- How NFRF review committees adjudicate NFRF-E applications
- Guidance for crafting compelling proposals that address all criteria
- Resources available to applicants