Getting started
Developing the idea
All research should be protocol driven. A protocol is a detailed description of the study that explains all the methods and processes involved from start to finish. If necessary, it should enable unfamiliar researchers to continue to set up the study from the point that another researcher may have left it. Where support departments, such as pharmacy or radiology, are involved it is essential to discuss the implications of the study with them during the protocol development stage.
Further guidance may be obtained from Research Design Service South Central (RDS SC)| or the University of Southampton Clinical Trials Unit (UoS CTU).| We advise to use the overview of the NIHR's current non-commercial partners| (funding bodies/charities automatically eligible for inclusion onto the NIHR portfolio).
Funding must be secured for any study. There are a number of funding streams available. Guidance on appropriate funding streams and assistance with working up detailed grant applications can be obtained from the RDS SC| and UoS CTU|.
When applying for grant funding it is important that NHS costs are included in the application. Whilst grant funding may be paid into a university account arrangements must be put in place to refund the NHS any eligible costs.
The R&D office can offer assistance with costing studies. Contact Michelle Cawte| (023 8079 5146) for non-commercial studies and Heidi Nield| (023 8079 6083) for commercial studies.
Please note that it is important that sufficient time is given for costing studies. This allows for consultation with relevant departments and institutions. We recommend that a minimum of 3 weeks prior to submission date is allowed.