Expressions of interest sought from experienced researcher to partner with the PSI for the HRB Applied Partnership Award (APA)

Please note, expressions of interest are now closed.

The PSI, the Pharmacy Regulator, is a public body that regulates pharmacists and pharmacies in Ireland, in the interests of patient safety and public protection. At the PSI, we are committed to evidence-based decision making and applying the outputs of quality research to improve our work and our effectiveness as a public service regulator.

The PSI intends to apply for a HRB Applied Partnership Award (APA) to inform our work. We are seeking expressions of interest from experienced researchers in Ireland who are interested in partnering with the PSI as a Lead Applicant - Researcher. The PSI will be the Lead Applicant - Knowledge user for the application.

Further information on the Applied Partnership Awards (APA) is available on the HRB website.

What are the proposed research topics/area of research?

The following areas are proposed to form the basis for the research questions included on the application. These are subject to discussion and revision based on input from the successful lead applicant chosen through this EOI process.

1. To identify appropriate, proportionate and cost-effective method(s) of patient and public involvement in the work of the PSI. These may include appropriate channels through which we can receive input and feedback on our work, as well as methods of capturing insights on patient and public experience of pharmacy services in Ireland.
2. Related to the above, we plan to identify through appropriate research methods how our regulatory practices and the legislation underpinning our functions should adapt to achieve our ambitions to become more effective, compassionate, efficient, and patient-focused regulator.  In particular, we seek to understand how our activities and services are experienced and perceived by patients and the public, such as the Fitness to Practise process.

What are the timelines?

• Deadline for submission of EOI: 5pm, Wednesday, 16 October 2024.
• Application deadline for the HRB Applied Partnership Award: Wednesday, 18 December 2024.
• Project commencement date (pending successful application): Wednesday, 1 October 2025, with a duration of between 12-24 months.

What does the role of Lead Applicant involve?

As the Lead Applicant, you will:

• Be responsible for the scientific and technical direction of the research project.
• Have primary fiduciary responsibility and accountability for carrying out the research within the funding limits awarded and in accordance with the terms and conditions of the HRB. 
• Be the primary point of contact with the HRB for the review process and award. 

Who is eligible to apply?

Lead applicants must meet the following essential criteria: 

1. Hold a post (permanent or a contract that covers the duration of the award) in a HRB recognised Host Institution in the Republic of Ireland as an independent investigator. 

OR 

Be an individual who will be recognised by the Host Institution upon receipt of an award as an independent investigator who will have a dedicated office and research space for the duration of award, for which you will be fully responsible. The Lead Applicant does not necessarily need to be employed by the Host Institution at the time of the application submission. 

(A HRB Host Institution is a research-performing organisation approved by the HRB for the purpose of receiving and administering HRB grant funding and is responsible for compliance with all general and specific terms and conditions of awards.)

2. Demonstrate a record of research output, with at least three publications of original research in peer reviewed journals as well as evidence of broader outputs (e.g. published book chapters, reports to government, research data and datasets, research material, databases, audio/video products, national and/or international reports, patents, models and protocols, software production, evidence of influence on health policy and practice, outreach and/or knowledge exchange activities, media coverage or other relevant activities) that have resulted in a significant impact in your field.

3. Demonstrate a record of independence by showing that you have secured at least one peer-reviewed research grant for a research project as either the Lead Applicant or a Co-Applicant.

4. Show evidence that you possess the capability and authority to manage and supervise a research team.

Additional essential criteria specific to this EOI process:

• Researchers should be at mid-stage or senior stage in their career. Experience in clinical research, population health research and/or health services research is essential.
• Researchers with a special interest in patient and public involvement in research.
• Previous experience of involving patients and members of the public in research projects. 

How do I express my interest? 

There are two steps to the EOI process:

1. Complete the online application form
2. Email the CV of the proposed lead applicant to communications@psi.ie 

Please submit your EOI by 5pm on Wednesday, 16 October 2024. Late applications will not be considered. 

How will the Lead Applicant be selected? 

Applicants will be selected by a panel within the PSI based on the information provided via the EOI application form. 

Following this, the PSI will contact all applicants to let them know the outcome of the process, whether successful or unsuccessful.

It is important to note that the progression of the project is dependent on the outcome of the HRB funding process. The research project will only go ahead if the project is selected for an APA. The PSI also reserves the right to withdraw from the application process.

Is this research funded?

The APA awards provide funding for allowable costs up to €200,000. Depending on the final research questions/scope, the PSI would provide co-funding of up to €40,000. There will be no funding available for the application process itself. Funding by HRB and/or PSI will only be provided if the project application is successful.

Where can I find more information? 

Please email communications@psi.ie if you have any questions.