Free support for researchers to apply for funding, and to develop and deliver clinical and applied research
The NIHR Research Design Service (RDS) will be replaced by the new NIHR Research Support Service (RSS) from 1 October 2023. NIHR Research Support Service.
After the closure of the NIHR Research Design Service on 30 September 2023, we are continuing to support existing clients through to 31 March 2024.
Would you like to discuss your idea with our RSS Hub?
NIHR Research Support Service (RSS) provides free and confidential advice to help you design your research study and apply for funding, including on how to involve patients and the public involvement in your research. Where appropriate we can also help broker collaborations to strengthen your team.
The RSS is delivered collaboratively through eight hubs, each a partnership of research groups and organisations.
RSS support includes:
- pre and post award advice from methodologists, including statisticians, qualitative researchers, health economists, social scientists, behavioural scientists, clinical trialists and others with expertise in research designs, approaches and methods of analysis
- advice on study development and delivery
- advice on patient and public involvement, and on developing and delivering inclusive research
- opportunities to collaborate with centres of research excellence
To request support from the Research Support Service Hub Delivered by the University of Leicester and Partners please fill in our enquiry form