External research (EFO) applications to the RMS are assessed from the viewpoints of current interests in RMS activities and research. Topics should be related to orthopaedics and traumatology as well as specific material problems with respect to various kinds of application. These so-called EFO projects are defined after consultation with the applicants and the project managers who implement them either independently or in close cooperation with the RMS.
Applications for research grants should be submitted in German or English with the «RMS – Research Grant Application» form and in accordance with the mentioned directives to the:
RMS Foundation
External Research
Bischmattstrasse 12
P.O. Box 203
CH-2544 Bettlach
Any financial grant and/or requested material samples / prototypes / implants / instruments have to be specified in the «RMS – Research Grant Application» form. Basically the equipment investments or investments in computer hardware and software are excluded from a financial grant. In contrast, the operating and maintenance costs can be applied proportionally and referring to the grant application. Further instructions regarding the content of the grant application are given in the application form.
Applications are accepted any time. Receipt will be confirmed within two weeks. Two months are usually needed to evaluate the proposed project, depending on its complexity and the communication with the applicant about questions from the RMS.
If human or animal subjects are included in the project or parts thereof, the study shall comply with the laws and regulations of the country involved. In this case, the World Medical Association Declaration of Helsinki of June 1974 and/or the European Standard EN 540 (Clinical investigation of medical devices for human subjects) has to be observed in particular.
The following conditions apply to any project support by the RMS:
• | The applicant and/or external project manager will be responsible for the management and progress of the project. |
• | Should this project lead directly or indirectly to the development of a product or process, ensuing patent applications may only be made following the agreement and the consent of the RMS’ Managing Director and/or Head of Basic & Applied Research. |
• | If the result of this project can be used directly or indirectly for commercial purposes, this may only be done with the agreement and consent of the RMS’ Managing Director and/or Head of Basic & Applied Research. |
• | A short written report (10 –12 lines) about the state of the project shall be submitted to the RMS twice a year. |
• | Prior to any publication or presentation, the results of this study shall be forwarded to the RMS for discussion and comments. In case of publication, the support of the RMS should at least be mentioned. |