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Securing funding for your research: step-by-step

Check what you need to make a research bid application and when to contact your Research Development Manager.

  • Step 1: Identify funding opportunities for your research

    Visit the funding opportunities section  to find internal and external opportunities from a range of sources including professional grants.


    Before you apply:

  • Step 2: Apply and develop your bid application 

    Grant Application System - Worktribe

    Ulster University uses a system called Worktribe to allow researchers to manage projects from one place. Worktribe can help researchers with full economic costing; spend tracking; streamlined project management; faster approval processes; and clear workflows from submission to awards for research projects led by Ulster academics and applications submitted in partnership with other institutions. The Worktribe website provides training and support under the Help section as well as access to your Worktribe account. Therefore if you are planning to apply for research funding, please contact the relevant Research Development Manager.

    Your Research Development Manager will help you:

    • advise on the difference between Research and Consultancy
    • develop your project on Worktribe in accordance with Ulster University’s Guidance and Procedures
    • review your application and budget
    • ensure that relevant documents and resources are uploaded to Worktribe

    Notify your Research Development Manager once your bid has been approved on Worktribe by your Research Director and Head of School. Your application must be approved prior to submission.

  • Step 3: Submit your bid 

    Your Research Development Manager will help you review and submit your application. They will also provide guidance on whether internal or external peer reviews are required.

    The application must be approved by your research office before you can submit a bid to funders.

  • Step 4: Receive the outcome of your application

    Successful applications

    If your application is successful you must:

    • contact your Research Development Manager and provide them with a copy of the Letter of Award
    • your Research Development Manager will arrange the handover of your project to Research Management for Award Set-up

    The Research Development team has created a Document Repository of successful grant applications that have been submitted and awarded to Principal Investigators in the institution, we have included applications from as broad a range of funders and schemes as possible. Ulster University staff can then request access to the repository via their Research Development Manager when developing their application to enhance learning and understanding.

    Therefore, if your application has been successful / awarded funding and you are content to add a redacted copy of your application to the Document Repository. Please make your Research Development Manager aware.

    Unsuccessful applications

    If your application is unsuccessful you should:

    • contact your Research Development Manager to advise them of the outcome
    • your Research Development Manager will update the project on Worktribe
    • your Research Development Manager will assist you with Guidance and further opportunities
    • you may also wish to search for research funding opportunities using Research Professional