This module will enable students to prepare effectively for the development of a grant proposal for competitive, peer-reviewed funding that is strong from a methodological point of view, but also reads well and presents a convincing case for funding. This module will be suitable for home and international students seeking structured support and training for completing a competitive application for doctoral funding

Module Content:

• Grant application process.
• Funding opportunities and eligibility criteria (NIHR, ESRC, MRC, Welcome, healthcare charities such as Cancer Research UK, etc).
• The importance of the research question, title, aims, and objectives.
• Research protocol.
• Self-assessment- strengths, and weaknesses.
• Identifying training needs, selling yourself as a candidate.
• Project Management and Finance: study time schedule, budget, and plans for obtaining necessary ethical approvals.
• Demonstrating credible support: choosing supervisors and institutions.
• Pre-submission review.
• The interview process, skills, and a mock interview.

Learning is facilitated through lectures, required and recommended reading and seminars. The seminars will include student and guest presentations and hands-on exercises. Active student participation will be encouraged.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the module, the student will be able to:

• Demonstrate expert understanding in the process of development and submission of a grant application;
• Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of the criteria for developing a strong research proposal;
• Demonstrate a critical awareness of what constitutes Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) and its relevance to Ph.D. funding;
• Demonstrate an understanding of the research governance and oversight requirements, and be able to propose and appropriate project management plan (including GANTT chart, budget, and timelines for obtaining approvals;
• Demonstrate a comprehensive and advanced understanding of sales pitch and writing style to produce a convincing application with a good structure, flow, and argument;
• Demonstrate a critical awareness of the importance of communicating your work to different audiences including using Plain English and scientific summaries;
• Demonstrate an understanding of the process of individual research training needs analysis;

This module is designed for health and care professionals who have a foundational understanding of research methodologies and are actively considering doctoral-level study. Applicants should have:

• Prior experience or formal training in research methods (e.g. through a Master's-level module or equivalent professional experience);
• A clearly defined research idea or area of interest they intend to develop into a doctoral research proposal;
• A realistic plan to apply for a competitive PhD fellowship or studentship (e.g. NIHR, UKRI, charity-funded, or institutionally funded) within the next 6–12 months.

The module is particularly suited to those in clinical, academic, or applied healthcare roles who wish to strengthen their readiness for doctoral study by developing a high-quality funding application. Applicants are encouraged to engage with potential supervisors or research teams ahead of the module where possible.

Assessment

3,000-word assignment. Detailed Research Plan

Teaching schedule

Term 3 - 23/04/2026, 30/04, 14/05, 21/05, 04/06, 11/06