Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers – FAQs for Aspiring Researchers

Current Programmes:

LHP Researcher Development Programme (2025/26)
A structured pathway supporting researchers aligned with Liverpool Health Partners to grow their research careers through workshops, mentorship, and peer learning.

NHSE/NIHR Bridging Scheme (2025/26)
Helps nurses, midwives, allied health professionals, and healthcare scientists prepare a strong application for a doctoral or postdoctoral research award.

NHSE/NIHR Internship Programme (2025/26)
Offers early career professionals the opportunity to gain practical experience and mentorship in applied health research.

INRES Pilot Programme (2024/25)
A new initiative to support inclusive research engagement and build a culture of research across NHS trusts.

Releasing Potential (2025)
A development series focused on personal growth, confidence, and leadership in the research context — combining workshops, coaching, and storytelling.

Provocation Seminar Series 3 (Late 2025 / Early 2026)
An exploratory series of conversations and events focused on challenging norms and expanding thinking in health and care research.

Early career / new to research

• Liverpool Health Partners Researcher Development Programme:
  This programme is designed for people who work in healthcare/ research delivery who are new to research and show ambition to become a future research leader. A fully funded programme working in collaboration with Liverpool Health Partners and The University of Liverpool, this programme offers structured support which includes workshops, group coaching and mentoring and expert speakers to enable progression in your own research pathway.

• INRES Pilot Online Programme:
  This pilot online programme is designed for people who are new to research who have expressed significant interest in developing their research career. This programme provides a flexible, accessible and active learning experience for health and care professionals. The programme has monthly online workshops supported by coaching sessions and mentoring. Participants will be able to engage with learning materials and resources at a convenient time in advance of each workshop, which will support the exploration of learning as a group through online sessions together. 

• NHSE/NIHR Internship Programme:
  Designed for those with little or no research experience. Offers practical exposure to research projects and mentorship to build confidence and skills.
• Releasing Potential:
  Focuses on self-development and leadership. Ideal if you’re exploring your potential as a future research leader or need time and space to reflect on your next step.

Developing research experience / preparing for a PhD

• NHSE/NIHR Bridging Scheme:
  Supports those who’ve started building research experience and want protected time and support to prepare a strong PhD or postdoctoral funding application.

Working in or aligned with LHP organisations

• LHP Researcher Development Programme:
  For researchers connected to Liverpool Health Partners. Offers structured support, including workshops and mentoring, to progress your research pathway.

Inclusive engagement and research culture building

• INRES Pilot Programme:
  Supports NHS trusts and staff to develop inclusive, practice-based research that reflects diverse voices and builds a culture of learning.

Critical reflection and leadership

Provocation Series:
Offers space to reflect on the wider purpose, values, and culture of health and care research through dialogue and creative formats.

Not sure which is right for you?
Get in touch for a 1:1 conversation — we’re happy to help you navigate your next step.

• Talk to your supervisor or mentor about your ambitions and what support you might need.

• Get in touch with your Trust’s R&D department – they can help signpost local opportunities and advice.

• Explore NIHR resources and funding routes to understand the national research environment.

• Connect with other researchers – sharing experiences and ideas can open unexpected doors.

• Be open-minded – research pathways aren’t always linear, and new opportunities often emerge through collaboration.

• Join NHS R&D NW workshops – they offer space to explore research careers, build confidence, and develop useful skills at any stage.

Need a starting point? Try our Releasing Potential series or join an info session..

Early Career Researcher

You’re exploring research, developing confidence, and learning how the process works. You may be working on small projects or supporting others, and you’re starting to shape your research identity.

Mid-Career Researcher

You’ve gained experience, built a network, and are actively involved in projects. You might be leading studies, publishing, and collaborating across teams and disciplines.

Established Researcher

You’re taking a leadership role — developing funding bids, supervising others, and contributing to strategy or policy. You’re shaping the direction of research within your organisation or field.

• Use the application form provided and carefully follow the Guidance Notes.

• Be concise – use the word counts wisely and write clearly.

• Show evidence of your interest in research – highlight any involvement, however small.

• Make sure your project aligns with the programme criteria and is easy to understand, even for someone outside your specialty.

• Let your enthusiasm show – your passion for research matters.

• Ask someone to read your application – they can help you spot unclear sections or simple mistakes.

• Submit on time, with the required support from your employer.

We want to see your potential – not a perfect proposal, but a clear commitment to grow.

If you’re applying for a Pre-Doctoral Bridging Award:

• You should have a clear research idea, even if the question isn’t fully developed.
• You’ll have shown some engagement with research, such as publications, audits, or quality improvement work.
• You should already have at least one supervisor identified.

If you’re applying for a Postdoctoral Bridging Award (not currently offered):

• You’ll have completed a PhD and begun demonstrating research leadership.
• You’re looking to build on that leadership and secure further funding.

In both cases, it’s important to be aware of other development opportunities in case your application isn’t successful this time. Our team can help you explore alternative pathways.

• Take time to reflect on what you’ve learned and how it’s shaped your goals.
• Build on the momentum by developing a career plan – consider what skills or experiences you want to grow next.
• Talk to your manager about how your learning can support both your development and your team.
• Stay connected – keep building your network, and consider finding a mentor or coach to guide you through your next phase.
• Explore follow-on opportunities on the NHS R&D NW website or book a 1:1 with our team for personalised advice.

Your research journey doesn’t end here – it evolves. We’re here to help you keep moving forward.