Cutting-edge research depends on more than ideas. For research-intensive universities, it requires access to facilities, skilled staff and advanced equipment. However, funding for research infrastructure in the UK is increasingly elusive, with limited opportunities and fierce competition. To secure that much-needed investment, applicants and institutions must find new ways to make their proposals stand out.
The research technical professionals advantage: driving success from the bottom up
A proactive strategy led by research technical professionals (RTPs) can improve equipment funding success. With support from colleagues at Newcastle University, we’ve placed RTPs at the heart of the internal assessment and decision-making process. This allows us to harness their technical expertise, operational insight and understanding of the needs of the researchers, all key factors in sound decisions and long-term equipment sustainability.
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- Career development for technicians in higher education
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Beyond strengthening funding bids, this approach also empowers RTPs through mentorship and active involvement in the proposal assessment process, building their confidence and capability to lead future applications. This shift has redefined them from support staff to strategic enablers of research excellence and, importantly, colleagues who can shape investment decisions, drive innovation and influence institutional strategy.
Our approach was rolled out in 2022, and since then, Newcastle’s RTPs have been lead or co-applicants in 16 research infrastructure bids. Most are now leading their own proposals outright. With a 56 per cent success rate and over £7 million in investment in the facilities that they run, our RTP-inclusive approach is now beginning to be mirrored on a national scale.
Tips and tricks for grant-writing for RTPs and technical staff
For technical staff, securing funding can be a game-changer, enabling innovation, career growth and recognition. But writing a bid can be daunting, especially the first time. Where do you start?
First, do an inventory of your skill set. Don’t forget that in your technical role, you’ve developed a broad and advanced range of competencies that can significantly strengthen a grant application. These skills may include project management, outreach, leadership, supervision and critical thinking. Funders are now actively acknowledging the vital role of technical and non-research staff in the research process. Evidence all areas that you can evidence – and remember that funders are moving beyond traditional metrics such as publications. A narrative CV might be a better way to showcase your contribution and how it will ensure the success of the project. You don’t need to lead a bid to be named, but if the project relies on your work, your involvement should be recognised.
If you're considering writing your own bid, reflect on how your background aligns with the funding call. With the right framing, your experiences can help you stand out and enhance your chances of success, regardless of the funding amount.
Below are simple tips for those who want to embark on this journey:
1. Seek out opportunities
Don’t wait for funding to find you; be proactive and go looking for it.
- Sign up for internal and external mailing lists to stay updated on funding calls.
- Join professional bodies or learned societies – they often share low-value and focused opportunities.
- Network actively – talk to colleagues, attend events and ask around.
- Put yourself forward and make your interest known.
- Engage with academics – they’re often plugged into funding calls and can be great collaborators or mentors.
2. Do your homework
Before diving into writing, make sure the basics are covered.
- Check your eligibility with both the funder and your host institution. You may need to get a letter of support from your research office to prove your eligibility.
- Ensure your proposal fits the scope of the funding call.
- Talk to your line manager about work capacity – writing funding applications can be time-consuming.
- Seek mentors or reviewers internally or externally.
- Read successful applications, if possible.
3. Start small
If you're new to grant writing, try low-value, light-touch internal funding calls first.
- Apply for small internal or external funding calls to build up experience and a track record.
- Apply as a co-applicant but take on more responsibilities for various aspects of the grant.
- Seek support from colleagues and another, critical pair of eyes to review your bid.
4. Write with purpose
Grant reviewers are busy. Make their job easy by getting your message across efficiently.
- Answer all questions fully and clearly.
- Check word limits and application format and stick to them – you don’t want to be rejected on a technicality.
- Be concise. Avoid unnecessary jargon or waffle.
Funding bodies are increasingly recognising the value of technical expertise and leadership in grant applications and are also bringing RTPs into grant assessment panels and strategic advisory boards. Sustainable operating models, best practice, quality management and technical training are all vital to maximising the long-term impact of funded equipment.
Our inclusive, RTP-driven model offers a compelling template for others. It shows that when RTPs are empowered and supported, they don’t just contribute but can drive institutional strategy forward with success.
Alex Laude is head of biomedical research facilities and engagement lead for the innovation, methodology and application research theme in the Bioscience Institute at Newcastle University.
Alex has been shortlisted in the Outstanding Technician of the Year category in the 2025 THE Awards. A full list of nominees can be found here. The awards will be presented on 13 November.
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