The Research Design Service (RDS) London is part of the NIHR and provides help to those preparing research proposals for submission to peer-reviewed funding competitions for applied health or social care research.

With centres based at King's College London, Imperial College London, Queen Mary and University College London, it supports applications for funding from NHS staff and academics and those working in partnership with the NHS. Priority is given to those applying for NIHR Research for Patient Benefit (RfPB) funding, with other NIHR, NHS and Charitable funding streams also supported.

The centre at Imperial College is based at the Charing Cross Campus and provides expert advice on health economics, social science, and evidence synthesis. Our team at South Kensington also provides extensive statistical support.

Support is provided at all stages of a proposal from idea to final draft application and is delivered in the form of personal support with one or more advisers. In addition to the specialties above, the RDS also has a strong focus on Patient Public Involvement (PPI) and will link new researchers with those of considerable experience for a successful grant application.

RDS London

Workshops and drop in sessions

The RDS holds regular drop-in sessions for researchers for quick help on proposals as well as training for researchers.

For regular updates on these events, please visit the Research Design Service London website.

Request support

If you would like support for your funding application, please complete the RDS London online support request form (on the Research Design Service London website)