Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) is spreading across the country and infecting a range of animals from birds to sea mammals. Recently, the virus has spread to dairy cattle and farm workers, and more HPAI research is needed to rapidly enhance surveillance and response capabilities. The Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research’s (FFAR) Rapid Outcomes from Agricultural Research (ROAR) Program awards research grants in response to emerging and unanticipated food and agriculture threats. The ROAR Program welcomes research proposals related to HPAI response, prevention or mitigation.
HPAI is a highly contagious and often deadly viral infection in birds, including chickens, turkeys and other avian species. The virus can be transmitted by wild birds to domestic poultry and other bird and animal species, with the virus recently spreading to dairy cattle and farm workers. The agriculture industry urgently needs research to understand the recent transmission of HPAI into dairy cattle and to develop effective solutions to protect livestock, producer bottom lines and our food supply.
FFAR is interested in research to inform HPAI response, prevention or mitigation, including work on HPAI pathogenesis, transmission and biosecurity enhancement on dairies. ROAR applications are subject to a rigorous scientific review process and matching funding requirements. FFAR encourages applicants to form broad-based coalitions to increase research collaboration and maximize adoption of new knowledge and practices by the agriculture sector.
The ROAR webpage includes more information on program requirements and instructions on submitting a concept note.