As part of the World Mental Health Day, which takes place on October 10, FLAD launches the 2nd edition of the Science Award Mental Health, the largest award to support mental health research in Portugal. The winner will be awarded 300,000 euros to develop their project. This initiative is recognized by the Minister of Health, World Health Organization and United Nations.

The impact of the mental health pandemic on populations was devastating. After decades of alertness, this is an issue that has finally become central in the words of leaders around the world, and a key issue in any analysis of the impact of the pandemic. If it used to be urgent, now it’s critical. It has become even more evident to all of us that it is crucial to value Mental Health and to fight the stigma with which mental disorders are associated. For all these reasons and not only, FLAD has taken the lead and created what is the highest scientific award in this field in our country.

Promote clinical research on Mental Health in Portugal.

The FLAD Science Award Mental Health, the largest scientific award for Mental Health in Portugal, aims to support clinical research projects of young psychologists, psychiatrists, family doctors, neurologists, and other professionals in this area,in Portugal, with the cooperation of the United States.

But also to contribute to the quality of life of patients, at a time when the needs around Mental Health are even more evident.

Key research areas for the 2022 edition

The focus is on developing new clinical approaches, which can be dedicated from prevention to treatment and rehabilitation. The idea is that these approaches reflect a better understanding of the impact of different factors – biological, life experiences, family history, epidemiological, among others – on the development of mental disorders.

Award

The award has a value of 300.000 euros, for a maximum of 3 years, which corresponds to 100.000/year.

Jury

The evaluation shall be carried out by a scientific committee composed of:

Candidates profile

  • Hold a PhD, maximum 8 years ago at the opening date of the open call. Those who have completed their PhD on or after November 1, 2013 are eligible.
  • To be associated with a research center recognized by FCT (Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia) in the field of Mental Health and clinical research.
  • Have the support of the health unit and research center associated with the research plan.
  • Research in Portugal, independently, autonomously, and with scientific quality.
  • Include a research interaction with a United States entity.

Selection

The prize will be awarded after an analysis of a two-stage application:

  • Phase 1: The first phase of applications opens between November 1 and November 30, 2021, focusing on the evaluation in the scientific and professional curriculum of the candidate, and on the main ideas presented in the research proposal.
  • Phase 2: The best-qualified candidates in the first round are invited to participate in the second phase of the application. The proposal for the research plan for the 3 years of duration of the prize, between January 15 and February 15, 2022. A final interview can also be anticipated.

The final results will be known on 31 March 2022.

Applications

For the first stage of the application, it is necessary to attach the Applicant Biosketch form.

We advise you to read the notice of this open call (Notice – FLAD Science Award Mental Health), where you can find all the details about the award.

Any question related to the prize or the application process, please email fatima.fonseca@flad.pt

Follow us through this website and our social media to stay briefed about the selection process.