A partially randomised approach to internal funding allocation: A pilot by the University of Leeds’ Research Culture team

This report presents the rationale, methods, and preliminary data emerging from a 2023 trial of partially randomised funding allocation (PRA) used to internally distribute Research England’s Enhancing Research Culture fund at the University of Leeds. Of 26 eligible applications, six fell in the upper midfield on quality assessment and were randomised. Of this subset, one received the available funding.

Qualitative data from applicants, reviewers, and moderators in the trial suggest modest gains regarding the reduction of bias and efficiency of peer review. The benefits of the feedback that PRA affords are variable.

This report presents strategic and operational recommendations for colleagues interested in adopting or adapting PRA as a way of improving research culture. For example, we highlight the importance of a) sharing data on the role of chance in traditional peer review, and b) considering the benefits and risks of PRA at both group and individual applicant levels.

This project is part of University of Leeds’ Research Culture Strategy 2023-2028.