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Request for Proposals

Modelling the Value Proposition of Measles IgM Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs)

About this Request for Proposals (RfP)

​The MAH invites proposals for collaborative research projects that model the value proposition of measles IgM Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs). This call for proposals stems from recent discussions within the MAH IgM RDT Working Group and aims to generate evidence that informs policy and operational decisions on the deployment of RDTs in diverse settings. As WHO prequalification of measles RDTs progresses, there is an urgent need to understand how these diagnostic tools can be effectively integrated into national surveillance systems and outbreak response strategies. Improved diagnostic capacity through RDTs could significantly enhance case confirmation, particularly in settings with limited laboratory infrastructure. Modelling can help identify optimal deployment strategies, estimate test demand, and assess how RDTs should be tailored to different transmission contexts—from endemic regions to settings that are approaching measles elimination—to support targeted surveillance and verification efforts.

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This research will support countries in making evidence-based decisions about IgM RDT adoption, including cost-effectiveness, policy alignment, and integration into surveillance protocols. Ultimately, the findings may help strengthen measles control efforts and accelerate progress toward elimination goals by improving the speed, reach, and reliability of surveillance and response systems.​​

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Proposals should address one or more of the following conceptual ideas, please see the Guide for Applicants for more information:

  1. Enhancing Surveillance Across Contexts

  2. Optimising Outbreak Response and Real-Time Use of RDT Data

  3. RDT Rollout Planning

  4. Estimating Test Demand and Supply Needs

  5. Evaluating Cost and Operational Trade-offs

Collaboration Requirements

​The MAH is deeply committed to building modelling capacity globally, particularly by supporting early career researchers and modellers based in high measles burden countries. This RfP presents an opportunity not only to generate impactful research but also to foster mentorship and skills development within the MAH network. Proposals that include meaningful, structured mentoring components—beyond tokenistic involvement—will be viewed more favourably. We encourage applicants to outline how they will support mentees through active participation in model development, interpretation, and dissemination, thereby contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable modelling community. Proposals are expected to include details regarding the following:

  • Multi-Modeller Collaboration: Proposals must include collaboration between multiple modellers to ensure methodological diversity and robustness.

  • In-Country Involvement: Local partners or users of modelling outputs for decision making should be involved from project conceptualisation through to modelling, interpretation, and dissemination. Their role should be clearly defined and meaningful.

Funding

​Funding is available for up to 12 months. Funding will be arranged via a subcontract between Imperial College London and the modelling group’s institution, with the Gates Foundation as the primary funder. (The level of funding and subcontract arrangement aligns with the Vaccine Impact Modelling Consortium’s (VIMC) approach for its modelling groups). 

​Eligible costs:

  • Staff costs (personnel)

  • Equipment costs (if needed)

  • Travel costs (if needed)

  • Institutional overheads / indirect costs (if applicable):

 

​Submission Requirements

Evaluation Criteria

This is a competitive application process, for which each application will be blindly reviewed by an external committee (see below). Proposals will be reviewed for the following:

  • Scientific approach

  • Research impact

  • Collaborations and capacity building

  • Value for money​

 

​​Please submit your proposal on the application form below to vimc-mah@imperial.ac.uk by 24 October 2025 at 23:59 BST with ‘RfP Application’ in the subject line. All applicants must be registered with the MAH.

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​The Guidelines and Application Form are available below.

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