Call for Research Proposals
Applications are now open for research project proposals from researchers across all relevant disciplines. Part of our mission at Locate International is to foster important new research on all aspects of missing persons and unidentified remains cases, build knowledge and contribute to prevention.
Call for Research Proposals
At Locate International, we are committed to solving missing persons and unidentified remains cold cases through innovation and collaboration. We work closely with police forces, families, communities, and a dedicated network of volunteers to achieve our mission.
As part of our ongoing efforts to expand knowledge and prevent future cases, we are inviting collaborative research proposals from researchers across relevant disciplines. This initiative provides an opportunity to partner with Locate International to address pressing issues related to missing persons and unidentified remains.
About our Programme
Locate International’s research programme is informed by the experiences of families, volunteers, and other stakeholders. It aims to:
Deepen understanding of missing persons and unidentified remains cases.
Develop effective tools and methodologies for investigations.
Contribute to preventative measures through innovative research.
By partnering with universities and research institutions, we aim to foster a community of curiosity that addresses these challenges and supports meaningful change.
Key Research Topics
We welcome proposals on a range of topics, including but not limited to:
Volunteer Motivation and Retention: Exploring the characteristics of volunteers and what drives their involvement.
Public Appeals for Information: Investigating why some people respond to appeals, the accuracy of tips, and response patterns.
Data Collection Tools: Improving software to streamline and standardise the presentation of identifying information in cold cases.
Legal and Judicial Processes: Examining coroners’ and courts’ handling of ‘presumption of death’ cases.
Media Representation: Analysing equity in reporting missing persons across print and social media.
Digital Memory and Privacy: Addressing challenges posed by persistent online posts about missing persons.
Technological Advances in Searches: Public understanding of and engagement with the use of drones in searches.
Tracing Prosthetics and Implants: Investigating the potential of serial numbers and international registers to identify remains.
Transportation of Victims: Researching patterns in the movement of bodies in criminal cases.
We also encourage proposals on other related topics, as innovation and creativity are essential for addressing these complex issues.
Submission Guidelines
Proposals should include:
Research Objectives and Methodology: A clear outline of the study’s aims and methods.
Funding Plans: Information about targeted funding schemes, where applicable.
Team Qualifications: Details of team members’ qualifications and experience.
Involvement of Locate International: Explanation of how Locate’s participation will enhance the project’s success.
Please note that while we are unable to directly fund research, Locate International offers in-kind support, including access to resources, advice, and participation from our team.
Deadlines and Process
Proposal Submission Deadline: Wednesday, 20 April 2025
Review Process: Proposals will be reviewed by Locate International personnel and external experts.
Announcement of Outcomes: Early June 2025
Proposals should be submitted using the designated template, available to download from this page using the red buttons.
Completed proposals. should be emailed to Suzanne Fraser (Head of Research, Locate International and Adjunct Professor, La Trobe University) .- contact details have been provided below.
You can also contact Suzanne to arrange a meeting about your proposal.
Professor Suzanne Fraser
Please feel free to contact Professor Suzanne Fraser with your submission, or with questions / to learn more about how you can best support our mission for change and resolution.
E: suzanne.f@locate.international
T: 0300 102 1011
