Research Funding Support

Introduction

RI members are able to apply for appropriate and timely funding through the RSF1 application form, ensuring that the activity to be funded, is appropriately justified. Support for research activity will be considered especially where it will enhance an individual’s (and/or a group’s) research profile and contribute to the aims and objectives of the RI.

Research Planning

Research planning is an integral part of the appraisal process. In line with good practice, individuals are reminded to plan their research activity on an annual basis, and to consider the resources that might be required to achieve this. When planning your research for the year, be mindful that you may need to be selective as to which events you wish to attend/present at, as it may not be possible to fund all that you wish to do.

Support for research activities will be considered favourably if the proposed activity has been planned for, applied for in good time, and is consistent with the individual’s (and/or group) research interests/expertise. Note, there may be occasional exceptions to this planning process, where unanticipated events or activities could not be planned in advance.

Monitoring Research Activity

As you are aware, the RI is monitoring members’ research activity. Each year, we will ask you to complete our Research Activity Survey so that we can review the effectiveness of our investments and the changes to our practice.

Bidding Rounds:

The call for funding is open in recognition of the fact that a great deal of research activity is responsive, and we wish to encourage activity throughout the year. The last opportunity to request funding during the financial year (1st August-31st July) will be on the 1st May. Any money awarded to members must be fully expended by 1st July each year and cannot be rolled forward. Note: any expenditure incurred which does not have prior RI approval WILL NOT be paid by the RI.

Application Process: (Summary) – further guidance is provided on the RSF1 Form

The application process (Form RSF1) is intended for easy completion and swift turnaround. Simply complete the relevant details including full costs. Please make sure that you complete the justification section on the form as fully as possible. This will enable others to make an informed decision about whether the request is appropriate, is timely and is important to your research. Email the completed RSF1 form to the Research Institute Administrator, Sue Humphries s.e.humphries@keele.ac.uk

All completed applications will be considered by the Research Institute Management, taking into consideration the justification for resources, the expected outputs of the research, and ensuring a degree of parity and fairness to all RI members. Decisions will be made and the outcomes delivered to applicants via e-mail, usually within one working week of receipt of an application. Unsuccessful applicants will be given feedback.