Research funding

The ability to generate funding is a real necessity for a career in academia. Outside academia it is also highly prized. You need to write persuasively, go through the peer review process, adhere to guidelines and deadlines and be aware of opportunities.

Where to find sources of research funding
Write a grant proposal
On this page:
When should I apply for funding?
Start small
Support for research funding applications

When should I apply for funding?

You can think about applying for funding at any time in your research career. The best time might seem to be “as soon as you have a research proposal”. But there are other options you can explore even before this point. Consider whether you could help your line manager or principal investigator (PI) to prepare a new funding application. You may be entitled to be named on the application, if funders’ regulations allow it.

Make a careful check of the criteria for the funding you want to apply for. The funding body’s website will have full details of eligibility, terms and conditions and how to prepare and submit a grant proposal.

Start small

Start with applications for funding for travel, conferences, equipment, public engagement and knowledge transfer activities and so on before tackling grant applications, ideally during your doctorate. This is evidence of your ability to write persuasively and can be used on your CV.

Support for research funding applications

Your line manager or PI is a natural first point of contact. Talk to others who have successfully won grant funding. Make use of their insight and expertise. Many universities have a Research Office, or equivalent, which is responsible for administering grants: they will be able to help.