CAHPR is pleased to announce a new commissioned project focused on improving understanding of research employment contracts for Allied Health Professionals (AHPs). Applications are now open for an experienced individual or team to undertake this important piece of work.

The full commissioning brief can be downloaded at the end of this page.

Why this project matters

Contracting arrangements for AHPs working in research have been identified as a recurring challenge affecting workforce retention. AHPs moving into research careers, taking up fixed-term posts, or working across NHS and higher education settings can face uncertainty around employment protection, end-of-contract arrangements, benefits, pensions, and the operation of joint contracts.

This project forms part of wider national work to support and retain clinical researchers and has been identified as a priority by both the NMAHP workforce retention implementation group and the AHP professional bodies.

About the commission

CAHPR is seeking proposals to investigate the current landscape for contracting AHP researchers and develop practical resources to help AHPs confidently negotiate and understand research contracts. The successful applicant will work closely with CAHPR leadership and key stakeholders from across the UK.

The commissioned work is expected to include:

• Interviews with key stakeholders across the NHS, higher education institutions, government departments, and the AHP research community.
• Identification of common issues, examples of good practice, and areas requiring greater support and understanding.
• Development of a comprehensive set of frequently asked questions relating to employment contracts, employment protections, benefits, fixed-term arrangements and joint contracts.
• Creation of an information guide to support AHPs when negotiating research contracts.
• Production of practical resources, including examples of contractual clauses that may require careful consideration.
• Development of an AI-compatible prompt to help researchers identify potential contract issues.

Funding and timeframe

CAHPR has allocated up to £10,000 for this commission. The project is expected to run for approximately three months, with the timeline primarily determined by engagement with stakeholders across all four UK nations.

Who should apply?

We welcome applications from individuals or teams with expertise in areas such as:

• Public policy, social sciences, communications, or health-related disciplines.
• Employment legislation, HR practice, and the Follett Principles.
• The UK health and care research funding landscape.
• AHP research capacity building and workforce development.
• Project management, stakeholder engagement, and communications.

Applicants may include specialist expertise through subcontracted partners where appropriate.

How to apply

Applicants should submit:

• A proposal of up to four pages outlining their approach and costings.
• A CV.
• Information about any named contributors or subcontractors.

Application deadline: 31 August 2026
Submit applications to: dawn.carnes@cahpr.org.uk

For further information, please read the full brief below or contact Dawn Carnes.

We encourage colleagues across the AHP research community, workforce development, HR, and policy sectors to share this opportunity widely through their networks. Together, we can help create clearer, fairer contracting arrangements that support and strengthen AHP research careers.