Closing date:
28 October 2026 at 1:00pm.
Who can apply?
Researchers proposing applied health and care research relevant to the day-to-day practice of health service staff and with a clear potential for patient benefit. Early-career researchers are encouraged to apply as Lead Applicant, supported by a more senior researcher as mentor and Joint Lead Applicant where appropriate. The grant must be administered by an NHS body or other provider of NHS services in England, and the Lead Applicant must have an appropriate relationship with the contracting organisation.
Available in:
England
Funding available:
Up to £500,000 for projects lasting up to 36 months. NIHR uses indicative funding tiers according to the type of research and expected trajectory to patient benefit, including up to £500,000 for research with more immediate patient benefit, up to £300,000 for feasibility studies and pilots, and up to £200,000 for more upstream research such as observational or proof-of-concept studies. An additional £10,000 may be requested specifically to support inclusive research practices.
Additional information:
- RfPB supports high-quality quantitative and qualitative research with a clear trajectory towards patient benefit.
- Research proposals can address a wide range of health service issues and challenges rather than being restricted to specified research topics.
- Patient and public involvement is strongly encouraged, particularly where research has been developed in association with relevant service users.
- This is a two-stage application process, beginning with an outline application followed by a full application for successful applicants.
- The current round also includes researcher-led funding and commissioned opportunities relating to James Lind Alliance research priorities and NICE research recommendations.
How to apply:
Submit an outline application through the NIHR Awards Management System by 1:00pm on 28 October 2026. Applicants successful at the outline stage are expected to be invited to submit a full application in February 2027, with full applications due in March 2027.
