DOST-NRCP, UPLB Team Up to Boost Engineering Researchers' Proposal Writing Skills
Over 40 faculty members and researchers from the University of the Philippines-Los Baños (UPLB) College of Engineering and Agro-Industrial Technology (CEAT) received a comprehensive proposal writing training organized in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology-National Research Council of the Philippines (DOST-NRCP). The training, held on March 24, 2025, at UPLB, focused on the essential skills needed for effective proposal writing, aligning research with DOST priority areas, and identifying funding opportunities.
The training workshop led by the NRCP Division of Engineering and Industrial Research, titled “From Concept to Funding: Effective Research Proposal Development”, was designed to upskill the participants in transforming their ideas into competitive research proposals. The session aimed to maximize funding opportunities and provide a deeper understanding of DOST and NRCP’s priority programs.
The workshop also encouraged attendees to join NRCP and actively engage in national research initiatives.
Dr. Ira C. Valenzuela, an Associate Professor at De La Salle University and Regular Member of the NRCP’s Division of Engineering and Industrial Research, led a session on Crafting an Effective Research Proposal. Dr. Valenzuela shared crucial strategies for streamlining the proposal development process, outlined funding opportunities, and emphasized the importance of fostering multidisciplinary collaboration to maximize the impact of research.
Dr. Ramon Christian P. Eusebio, Associate Professor at UPLB and Chair of the NRCP Division of Engineering and Industrial Research, provided insights into Basic Research: Priority Areas. Dr. Eusebio discussed programs under the National Integrated Basic Research Agenda (NIBRA) that are aligned with AmBisyon Natin 2040, emphasizing their relevance to current research initiatives. He also guided participants on using the DOST Project Management Portal System (DPMIS for submitting complete research proposals.
Meanwhile, Ms. Karizza Yambao, Science Research Specialist II from the NRCP’s Research Development and Management Division (RDMD), presented an overview of the NRCP Membership and Application Procedures. She encouraged CEAT researchers to apply for NRCP membership, highlighting the benefits of being part of the Council’s pool of experts and gaining access to research opportunities and resources.
Donabel Angelo, Project Technical Assistant VI from NRCPs RDMD, conducted a session on Project Line-Item Budget, explaining the key steps in preparing budgets and handling budget realignments or reprogramming for effecient project management.
As part of the workshop, participants had the opportunity to create and present their own concept research proposals. A total of four (4) proposals were developed, and the researchers plan to submit them during the next Call for Proposals.
The workshop ended with closing remarks from Dr. Eusebio,highlighting DOST-NRCP and UPLB’s continued commitment to strengthening research capacities, promoting collaborations, and expanding the network of experts through targeted capacity development initiatives.
This workshop is part of NRCP’s CaSCade Program (Capability Advancement through Scientific Capacity Development), which aims to build the research capacity of early-career researchers and support their efforts in securing research funding.
(Al James A. Manua, NRCP RDMD-TCDS)
