Calling all ECR AHPs working in mental health research: the NIHR is launching its latest round of its research for patient benefit (RfPB) call this week on 13 December – this time focusing on projects which are led by allied health professionals! This is a perfect funding scheme to apply for for AHPs working in mental health research as it is open, focuses on projects aimed at working directly with patients, and provides funding for up to 3 years. The NIHR is also specifying that the lead applicant be an ECR, so it’s an amazing opportunity!
We have an explainer post about the scheme generally here if you want an overview!
What is it?
The projects must be conducting work which is primarily focused on improving the lives of patients as with previous rounds of RfPB. However, this time there is an additional focus on supporting the career development of researchers from under-represented disciplines or specialisms. They are also specifically focusing on ECRs as the lead applicant in order to further build capacity in research.
AHPs can apply for up to £500,000 spread over up to 3 years of research.
Who’s it for?
- The call is for any project led by AHPs from any of the 14 professions specified by NIHR, including: art therapists, dietitians, drama therapists, music therapists, occupational therapists, operating department practitioners, orthoptists, osteopaths, paramedics, physiotherapists, podiatrists, prosthetists/orthotists, radiographers, speech and language therapists.
- An AHP at an early stage in their research career.
- If working in the NHS, the grant must be administered by a NHS body in England.
- Researchers working in the charity or commercial sectors are eligible to apply as long as they can prove that the work will clearly be for patient benefit.
- Co-applicants or partners can be based outside of England if they are the best placed person/organisation to be delivering the work.
Want to know more?
There will be a webinar Monday 15 January 2024 at 1400 – sign up here
There is a handy FAQ’s document here and the full call and other associated documents can be found on the NIHR’s website here
If you have a research idea but not sure exactly how to turn it into a grant application, the NIHR’s Research Support Service can help you out – check them out here
Are you an AHP working in mental health research interested in this RfPB call? Let us know over on X/Twitter @MHRIncubator