Supporting research proposals – in person training event for research administrators

From developing a research project idea through to grant negotiation, research administrators add value at every stage of the research grant cycle.  Research administrators develop an extensive understanding and knowledge base to enhance grant proposals and the research ambitions of those that they support.  The role we play will vary by institution, but we develop diverse abilities such as to preparing bidding strategies, develop compelling grant applications, costing and negotiation.  Oh, and understand the constantly changing rules of engagement with funders and their eligibility requirements!   

With this broad spectrum of skills and knowledge, engaging in dialogue and network with our peers to share best practice makes a real difference in our confidence and capability to deliver our role.  This is where ARMA is so valuable, with a range of development opportunities to help us navigate this minefield.   

Supporting research grants can feel like a constant battle to balance demands and change, and for someone new a confusing mix of information and questions of where to begin!  

Our upcoming Supporting Research Proposals session is designed to help colleagues who are new (less than 12 months experience) to pre-award and supporting research proposals, to navigate the key external and internal challenges, whilst also meeting others who are in the same boat! The session will explore and cover:  

• The role of research administrators when dealing with research proposals
• An overview of key terminology and principles around grant development and grant costing 
• A summary of the current issues in research support relating to research funding 

In the session we undertake a group critique of a grant summary, do a costing and consider how to provide feedback to academics. We will also have time and space for a discussion on topical issues.   

There will also be plenty of opportunities to network with other attendees at the event and ask questions and pose your challenges to the session facilitators.  

The session will be run in person, from 9:30 am – 4:00 pm and we look forward to meeting you.  

We are:  

Deryn Evans is Research Grants Team Manager/ Research Development Manager at Cranfield University, with over a decade of experience in research management and development. She currently leads a Research Grants Support Team to deliver the pre-award support service for public sector grant applications and is personally responsible for the development of strategic grants. 

Emma Davies is Research Development Manager at the University of Manchester. She has over 15 years experience supporting research and external funding.