Research delivery support for the life sciences industry

The Research Delivery Network (RDN) plays a vital role in delivering the NIHR’s support offer for the life sciences industry.

If you are seeking help or support for non-commercial research, visit our Study Support Service page.

Our support is available to life science companies of all sizes, from start-ups and small to medium enterprises (SMEs) to global life science companies and contract research organisations (CROs). We work with all sectors (pharma, biotech, medtech, data and digital) and across all NIHR therapeutic areas.

We can work with you at all stages of your research journey. Our Study Support Service provides dedicated services to support the planning, placement and delivery of research, for example:

  • advice and guidance on all support available from the NIHR
  • engaging with patients and the public to help you design participant-friendly trials
  • access to data to support early feasibility decisions
  • access to clinical and care experts for detailed feasibility assessments
  • help to identify the right investigators and locations for your research
  • tools and support to complete the UK-wide standardised, national approach to costing and contracting
  • access to research registries and other digital tools for recruitment
  • tools to assess your study’s progress
  • support with individual study delivery and performance upon request
  • advice and guidance on the wider UK research ecosystem

Getting started

If you are new to the NIHR or have not delivered a study in the UK before, visit our NIHR support for industry page to discover our full range of support or explore all our services and support.

If you need help or advice, complete our contact form to request a chat with our Industry team. We aim to reply as soon as possible and always within two business days.

If your study is already part of the NIHR Research Delivery Network Portfolio and you need support or help with a specific site please contact your regional Industry team.

As the RDN progresses through its transition period, our Study Support Service is transforming many of its services to ensure we meet the needs of our customers and stakeholders. This page will be updated to reflect the latest changes as they are implemented.