Get involved in research

The R&I team actively seek research opportunities in all specialities and are continuing to cultivate the research portfolio across the Trust.

Research and innovation:  For patients and public   For industry

We aim to support efforts to deliver high-quality research programmes. Research develops new skills, encourages critical thinking, and builds the evidence for future treatment.

R&I can provide a range of support for staff interested in any of the following:

• Opening a research study at FHFT. Most of our current activity is hosting non-commercial and commercial studies from the NIHR portfolio. The portfolio is a large database of research studies that have funding and ethical approval.
• Formulating a research question
• Developing a research grant application
• Sponsoring a research study through the ethical and governance approvals

Formulate a Research question

We are keen to support home grown research ideas. We can provide advice on developing your research idea, identifying funding options and provide sponsorship for the research.

There is a monthly drop-in session to discuss ideas, and Frimley Health Charity has committed to providing pump priming money for projects.

Academic careers

There are various routes to developing a career in research. It can be part of a full-time clinical role, or with more time dedicated to research activity. Find out more about career development opportunities.

Innovation and intellectual property

We are keen to support innovation and the generation of intellectual property. The Trust policy on Intellectual Property is available on the Frimley Health intranet.

We work closely with the commercial team and have recent experience of device innovation, registering designs and trademarks.

There are six main types of intellectual property:

1. Patents
2. Trademarks
3. Copyright
4. Designs
5. Databases
6. Trade Secrets

Please get in touch early with your idea. Do not make it public as disclosure may preclude future protection of the IP.

Getting involved as a staff member

Where can I get research funding?

Sources of research funding include charities, national societies, NIHR, Wellcome and MRC. These funders often have different streams targeted at different types of research question or stage of research.

Can you help me develop a research idea?

Yes, get in touch via email at fhft.research-innovation@nhs.net with your idea and we can provide support to develop it. The NIHR Research Support Service is also available.

Can I get time out of my job to conduct research?

Some jobs have research built into the role. Otherwise, it is possible to have time bought out in a successful grant application or pursue personal funding to support an academic career.