Endowment Fund for Research
Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura
Medical research is essential for the advancement of healthcare. It allows medical researchers to explore new frontiers, uncovering vital information that can lead to breakthroughs in diagnosis, treatment and prevention. It also drives innovation and can have substantial economic benefits. By supporting and investing in medical research, we can pave the way for a healthier and more prosperous future. A sustainable financial support will attract and retain researchers and experts in the field of medicine, and enhance the reputation and competitiveness of Faculty of Medical Sciences (FMS), University of Sri Jayewardenepura (USJ) by engaging in quality research and publications.
The Endowment Fund for Research of FMS, USJ was established in 2023 by the Research Committee of FMS to support and enhance research. We invite you to contribute to the fund to fulfill the objective of promoting science and research in the Faculty of Medical Sciences.
Who can contribute to the endowment fund?
Alumni or any well-wisher living in Sri Lanka or overseas can contribute to the fund.
What types of donation categories are available?
Donors will have the opportunity to name specific research scholarships (PhD or MPhil), showcasing their commitment to advancing research at FMS, USJ.
- Named research Grants to Support a PhD Student [Minimum Value of Endowment is Rs 6,000,000]
- Named research Grants to Support an MPhil Student [Minimum Value of Endowment is Rs 3,000,000]
- Any amount of donations to be added to the EFR
Donations may be made by cheque, online/bank transfer or cash. All donations should have and endorsement viz, ‘Endowment Fund for Research FMS’. Donations once made shall become the property of FMS. The Dean shall acknowledge all donations in writing.
How will the funds be utilized?
Funds will be utilized to provide financial assistance that will enable members of the FMS to undertake impactful research projects leading to a research degree (MPhil or PhD), by themselves or a student under their supervision (registered at the Faculty of Graduate Studies, USJ).
How will the funds be awarded?
Awarding of funds for a research degree shall be made annually after an advertisement on a competitive basis to a permanent member of the academic staff of FMS, USJ. It shall be the duty of the Endowment Fund for Research Committee (EFRC) to advertise and select the grantees.
A transparent and merit-based selection process will be established to determine the allocation of funds to research projects. Eligible faculty members will be invited to submit research proposals, which will then undergo rigorous evaluation by subject experts. The EFRC will then assess the scientific merit, potential impact, and feasibility evaluations by the expert reviewers before deciding on awarding funds.
What is the structure of the Endowment Fund for Research?
An endowment is a permanent, self-sustaining source of funding. In an endowment fund, the principal will be invested in perpetuity and only a portion of the investment’s earnings will be used each year to support the fund’s purpose. Any earnings in excess may contribute to the long-term capital growth.
The EFRC will determine the annual endowment distribution, while preserving the initial endowments for future generations.
What is the role of Endowment Fund for Research committee (EFRC)?
The fund will be managed by a dedicated committee comprising of the Dean, members of the Research Committee of FMS, financial experts and administrators, who will oversee investment strategies to maximize returns.
Members of the EFRC
- The Dean of the FMS, USJ
- Chairperson of the Research Committee, FMS
- Secretary of the Research Committee, FMS
- Treasurer of the Research Committee, FMS
- Three other identified members of the Research committee each representing Phase 1, Phase II and Phase III departments
- One Senior Professor of FMS other than any of the above
- Senior Assistant Bursar/Assistant Bursar, FMS
- Deputy Registrar/Senior Assistant Registrar, FMS
The committee will ensure transparency, accountability, and adherence to ethical guidelines while disbursing funds to research projects. The committee is responsible for actively appreciating endowments from donors, management and monitoring of practices and decide on allocations.
How will the progress of funded research be Reported and audited?
Annual reports will be prepared and submitted to the Faculty Board, FMS and Finance committee, USJ, highlighting the progress made by funded research projects and the impact achieved. Regular auditing will be done.
How do I donate?
Please contact the following if you wish to donate or require further information.
Dean
Faculty of Medical Sciences
University of Sri Jayewardenepura
Chairperson
Research Committee
Faculty of Medical Sciences
University of Sri Jayewardenepura