The Translational Clinical Studies Research Committee invites applications for research that aims to improve treatments and diagnostics for conditions of clinical significance to the population of Scotland. We welcome a wide range of translational research, from studies addressing fundamental scientific questions that underpin unmet clinical needs through to patient interventions.
Key Criteria
Applications should demonstrate the clinical relevance of the proposed research and its potential for translation into clinical practice. Research that seeks to address questions of clinical importance in smaller patient groups, including rare diseases, is particularly welcomed. Development, feasibility or pilot studies that will provide essential data to underpin applications for definitive studies to other funders are expected to form a major proportion of the portfolio. The committee also welcomes applications in medical technology such as medical devices, in vitro diagnostic devices and digital health technologies addressing an existing or emerging health or social care need in Scotland.
Research Focus
Applications should clearly define research questions and outline a pathway for translation into clinical practice. The committee seeks studies that are designed to test well-defined hypothesis with the potential to yield clinical actionable results. While hypothesis-driven research with clinical applicability is a priority, we also recognize the importance of exploratory research that can lay the groundwork for future clinical interventions. The research approach and methods should be sound, well-justified, and, where applicable, supported by preliminary data.
Patient and Public Involvement
Applicants are expected to involve patients/public/service/policy makers in the design and conduct of their study as appropriate. They should consider inclusion and diversity in design, applying relevant guidance in order that the research can be as inclusive and representative as possible of the population(s) that could benefit from the outcomes (such as UK Standards for Public Involvement (google.com); INCLUDE – Guidance (google.com); Improving trial diversity – Trial Forge).
Funding Details
Funding of up to £350,000 (at 80% Full Economic Costs) is available for projects of up to three years duration. However, projects at lower cost and shorter duration are welcome considering value for money being important. Applications including funding from other sources are welcomed but evidence demonstrating this support must be provided.
Assessment Criteria
The committee will evaluate applications based on:
- The case made and its potential impact;
- methods (including the approaches taken to patient, public, service and/or policy maker involvement and diversity and inclusion in design);
- the translation of the research;
- value for money.
The application is reviewed by independent expert and lay members of the committee. Competition for funding is high. Usual success rates for applications from outline application stage to final funding decision are around 20-25% with around 5-6 applications funded in any one round. Unless specifically invited, resubmissions of applications will not be considered.
Other Funding Opportunities
Applicants should be aware of the range of other funding opportunities available, including the nine National Institute of Health & Care Research (NIHR) programmes that are open to applications from researchers based in Scottish Institutions (NIHR Programmes – Chief Scientist Office). If applying to CSO for funding for a preliminary study to support a subsequent application to one of the NIHR programmes, applicants should specify the programme in their application to CSO and be fully aware of the requirements of the NIHR programme.
Applicants should consider these opportunities as part of their strategy for securing follow-up funding.
Contact: Queries relating to applications to the Committee should be directed to Dr Alan McNair.
For all other questions, including those on active grants, please contact the CSO Grants Management Team.
Current Committee Membership
| Professor James Chalmers (Co-Chair) | University of Dundee |
| Professor Iain McEwan (Co-Chair) | University of Aberdeen |
| Professor Syed Faisal Ahmed | University of Glasgow |
| Dr Paul Coats | University of Strathclyde |
| Professor Stephanie Dancer | NHS Lanarkshire/Edinburgh Napier University |
| Dr Fergus Doubal | University of Edinburgh |
| Professor Pasquale Maffia | University of Glasgow |
| Professor Kostas Gerasimidis | University of Glasgow |
| Dr Anne-Marie Haughey | Edinburgh Napier University |
| Ms Marilyn Jackson | Lay Member |
| Mr Graham Silcock | Lay Member |
| Ms Catriona Keerie | University of Edinburgh |
| Professor Anne Kiltie | University of Aberdeen |
| Professor Paddy Mark | University of Glasgow |
| Professor Ian Megson | University of the Highlands and Islands |
| Dr Esther Sammler | University of Dundee |
| Dr Lucy Whitaker | University of Edinburgh |
| Dr Catherine Wright | Glasgow Caledonian University |
| Dr Lucy Stirland | University of Edinburgh |