Research Design Service North East

WHAT WE OFFER

The NIHR Research Design Service (North East) consists of a team of experienced researchers with expertise in health services research methodology, qualitative research, statistics, health economics, systematic reviewing, clinical trials and social care research. The service is led from Newcastle University in partnership with Durham University and local NHS trusts. The main physical bases are at the two universities, through the Institute of Health and Society at Newcastle University and the Wolfson Research Institute (Queen's Campus) at Durham University, with a satellite hub at James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough.

 

It is envisaged that those from Northumberland, Tyne and Wear wishing to use the service will generally access the Newcastle hub while those from County Durham and Tees Valley will use the Durham hub. For those who already have an established relationship with colleagues in one of the hubs, or if particular expertise is required that is exclusive to one hub, cross-border approaches will be accepted.

 

WHAT WE OFFER

 

The RDS NE team have the knowledge and expertise to advise on a wide range of research-related issues, including all aspects of research design and methodology. We can also advise on issues such as patient and public involvement, identifying resources and dissemination plans. We have a wide range of other contacts in academic and clinical disciplines to facilitate any necessary additional input where required. All discussions and information provided will be treated confidentially.

 

WE OFFER

  • to facilitate the identification of a suitable funding stream for your project
  • professional advice on aspects of developing a grant application, research design and research methodologies, both quantitative and qualitative
  • support to identify and approach suitable lay and professional collaborators
  • referral to a clinical trials unit when required
  • advice from our designated Patient and Public Involvement Officer
  • statistical, qualitative, and health economics support/advice as required
  • formative peer review of grant applications in the final draft stage

 

WE ARE UNABLE TO

  • help develop projects where there is no intention of submitting an application for peer review to a recognised funding stream
  • support applications that are audit, evaluation or satisfaction surveys
  • provide supervision or informal support for students
  • carry out any of the research - unless RDS advisors are costed into bids
  • calculate the costs of the research

 

WE EXPECT THAT INVESTIGATORS WILL

  • use the RDS only for eligible purposes
  • approach us in a timely manner; preferably at least eight weeks in advance of the grant deadline
  • consider proffered advice carefully and accept such advice except where there are compelling reasons not to do so
  • ensure that the research team includes input from NHS staff and lay person(s)
  • agree to carry out a thorough literature review of their area of interest
  • agree to one or more members of RDS staff being grant co-applicants where their involvement is sufficient, typically involving a substantial contribution to project design and/or their ongoing contribution to the study, if funded, is anticipated
  • acquaint themselves with the scope and eligibility of the targeted funding stream
  • discuss their proposal with all of their research team before submitting it to us to review
  • provide the RDS with a copy of any submitted application in which their support has been obtained
  • inform the RDS of the outcome of applications


The RDS NE employs highly experienced health services and social care researchers. The advice and guidance they provide is aimed at increasing the quality of your funding application. All documents submitted to funding bodies remain the responsibility of the investigator.

 

WHEN TO CONTACT US

 

You may approach RDS NE at any stageof development of a research proposal: from simply wanting to discuss an initial idea through to requesting input on a specific issue relating to a well-developed proposal. However, it is preferable to contact us at an early stage to discuss your ideas, particularly if you have a clear funding deadline in mind.

 

We prefer you to make an initial on-line request for support through this website via the contact form.