Delivering Manchester 2035 – team streamlines research funding
17 Jun 2026
Research Services launches two new procedures to clarify expectations and coordinate funding calls, supporting our strategic foundation, organised for success.
Our Research Services team is introducing two new procedures aimed at streamlining research funding processes: the Research Grant/Contract Proposal Advance Notice Procedure and the Framework for the Internal Management of Funding Opportunities.
This work directly supports our Manchester 2035 foundation, Organised for success in which we’ll create a supportive, empowering and shared working environment where our people have the clarity, tools and culture to do their best work and feel empowered to innovate, as well as simplify processes and reduce barriers.
Advance Notice Procedure
The Advance Notice Procedure establishes clear expectations for applicants on when to request support for costings and submission of research and studentship proposals.
This procedure standardises requirements across all Faculties, ensuring applicants receive the breadth of support they need to prepare strong proposals that are in line with funder terms, maximise funding, and adhere to relevant compliance standards that apply to their proposed research.
Researchers should engage with Research Services or the Doctoral Academy as early as possible in their application development process to benefit from a high-quality support and a consistent service.
Framework for the Internal Management of Funding Opportunities
The Internal Management of Funding Opportunities introduces a coordinated approach to university-managed, internal research funding calls. It defines roles and responsibilities, recommends streamlined processes for application and award stages, and aims to provide a clearer, more consistent experience for colleagues designing and running internal calls with clearer support paths for applicants. The framework covers guidance for various internal schemes, from Interdisciplinary Pump Priming to Impact Acceleration Accounts and sets expectations for support teams around applications, budget verification, and award management.
Both procedures are now effective (in place as of 1 June 2026). Further information can be found on the RBE Staffnet pages: