We are seeking a range of investigator-led proposals from researchers working in the engineering and physical sciences who want to apply their expertise to challenges faced by UK manufacturing.
We define manufacturing research as the development of new and existing manufacturing processes, systems and networks.
We aim to help solve some of the most serious challenges facing the UK, both today and in the future. Manufacturing makes a major contribution to the UK economy but further investment is required, particularly in research into high-value and specialist manufacturing.
We particularly want to support work that turns science and engineering research into products and processes that can be used at scale in manufacturing.
Our manufacturing the future theme highlights a number of key areas for research:
- 21st century-defining products enabled by new technologies and advanced materials
- digital manufacturing
- sustainable manufacturing
- new industrial systems, including alternative machine tools, cellular manufacturing, self-healing tools, systems that self-build, and alternative supply chains and business models.
Find out more about our manufacturing the future theme.
We fund a wide range of projects ranging from small, short-term grants to multi-million-pound research projects, including:
- high-risk/high-return research embracing new concepts or techniques
- feasibility studies
- instrument development
- project-specific equipment
- collaborative projects that cross different disciplines.
You can use this funding opportunity to apply for standard grants, new investigator awards, networks or workshops.
Find out more about new investigator awards.
We will fund 80% of the full economic costs of your project. You may request funding for staff costs, equipment and other items required to carry out the project, costs related to impact, and travel and subsistence.
We have up to £3 million to invest in manufacturing the future projects each quarter. We can accept applications for up to £2 million. If you are considering a larger proposal, please contact a member of EPSRC’s manufacturing the future team to discuss this.