Firstly, the MRC wishes to satisfy itself that a trial is really needed. This is done through a formal outline proposal stage the closing dates for which are in Spring and Autumn of each year. Full proposals will only be accepted if they have been through this stage. Applicants whose trials have the potential to be competitive in the annual competition for funds are then invited to submit a full proposal. Those unlikely to be successful are not invited.
All applicants receive unattributed referees' comments.
Applicants invited to progress to the full proposal stage are normally given detailed feedback to inform the further development of their trial. Those progressing to the full proposal stage are asked to submit to the Board an application that goes into more detail on every aspect of the proposed trial. The importance of establishing a multidisciplinary team with the appropriate range of expertise and experience of this type of study is important. Full proposals are considered in open competition with other calls on Council funding and decisions are given at normal Council award points. Applicants are asked to submit the full costs of the proposed research.