On September 9, 2024, Dr. Sushma R, Lecturer, Public Health Dentistry Department at JSS Dental College and Hospital, delivered an informative seminar on 'External Grant Opportunities' as part of the PG orientation program for the new MDS students. This session provided a crucial overview of how postgraduate students can secure funding for their research projects and public health initiatives

Dr. Sushma R began her talk by emphasizing the importance of external grants in advancing research and enhancing public health initiatives. She outlined how obtaining grants can support a range of activities, from basic research to clinical and innovative interventions. One of the key aspects of the seminar was Dr. Sushma's detailed explanation of the various types of grants available. She discussed different funding mechanisms including research grants, seed grants, fellowship grants, and project grants. Each type of grant serves a specific purpose and has unique eligibility criteria and application processes. Dr. Sushma provided several examples of organizations and bodies that offer grants, helping students understand where to look for potential funding. She highlighted prominent funding sources such as the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and the Tata foundation. She also mentioned various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and foundations that offer grants for specific health initiatives. To illustrate the application process, Dr. Sushma shared practical tips and insights on preparing successful grant proposals. She emphasized the importance of a clear research objective, a well-defined methodology, and a compelling justification for the proposed study. Dr. Sushma also encouraged students to leverage institutional resources and seek mentorship from experienced faculty to strengthen their proposals

The session concluded with Dr. Sushma reassuring students that she is available for further guidance and support in navigating the grant application process. Her seminar equipped the first-year MDS students with valuable knowledge and resources to pursue external funding opportunities for their research and public health projects.