Idea for a trial?
The Network is open to trial suggestions from UK DCTN members. If you are not experienced in setting up and running a clinical trial don't worry - the Network can help with all aspects of designing your clinical trial.
If you're looking for funding, please see our UK DCTN annual themed research call
*NEW* Research Clinic for your trial ideas
Do you have a research idea but not sure where to start or need help refining it? Visit our research clinic for an informal discussion with our small group of experts. Please see our flier here for information then complete this form and return to us to book your place.
Upcoming research clinic dates: 12-1pm Tues 23 Sept or 6-7pm Wed 24 Sept 2025
Application Forms for full or part developed research proposals
- Outline proposal - For a research proposal at an early stage of development
- Full vignette - For a more developed research proposal with the backing of a team
- Fast track - If you are responding to a commissioned call with a short deadline please contact us via email
A good example of a completed vignette - Use this example as a guide of what information we need from you. If you do not have all the information you can submit an early outline proposal instead.
Being a clincial lead - It is usual practice, but not essential, that the author of a vignette becomes the clinical lead for a study. See here what is involved in being a clinical lead.
Diversity & Inclusion - This guidance has been developed to support our trial teams to think about inclusivity in the design of their research and for sufficient reporting on the diversity of their trial population.
How we can help
If you submit an idea for a clinical trial, and it is approved by our steering group, then we can assist in getting your trial up and running in the following ways:
- Facilitate and advise on development of trial protocol and co-ordinate study teams
- Conduct membership surveys to assist with trial design
- Assist with your applications for funding
- Ongoing publicity for your study
- Encourage and develop the involvement of service users/people with lived experience
- Identify potential recruiting sites for your study
- Dissemination of results for maximum impact.
Submit a research idea to the NIHR for commissioning
Most studies developed with UK DCTN support are funded via various National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) funding streams. We are currently working with them to look at ways of getting more commissioned research calls for dermatology. Please see this video from the NIHR to find out more. You can submit an idea for the NIHR to consider for commissioning via this form Simply send it to us so we can review it and support you.