Don't miss out on funding for sustainable industrial futures in the UK!

This substantial funding opportunity is not for astronomy research, but it could be a perfect fit if you're looking to support the transition towards a more sustainable industrial future in the UK. The program is spearheaded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and offers a total of £26 million (funded at 80% full economic cost) over seven years to create a virtual center of excellence.

Details about the program:

Program Goal:

The overarching goal is to establish a world-class research center that will empower existing UK manufacturing industries to adopt sustainable practices and achieve net zero or even negative greenhouse gas emissions. This transformation is expected to deliver a range of environmental and socio-economic benefits.

Expected Outcomes:

• Environmental Wins: The research conducted by the center will lead to the development and deployment of new, sustainable technologies for industrial processes. This will significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels, improve air, water, and land quality, and contribute to achieving environmental net gain.

• Economic Growth: The program fosters the creation of new sustainable jobs and businesses, bolstering the UK's industrial landscape and technological leadership.

Who can Apply?

Universities and research institutions are eligible to lead the application. However, collaboration is key! Businesses are actively encouraged to participate as project partners, fostering a strong industry co-creation and leadership approach from the outset.

What will reviewers look for?

• Research Excellence: The quality and innovation of the proposed research will be a major deciding factor. Reviewers will seek a well-defined plan tackling the challenge of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in UK manufacturing.

• Industry Engagement: A strong emphasis is placed on genuine co-creation with industry partners. The proposal should demonstrate a clear strategy for collaboration throughout the project's lifecycle, with substantive contributions (including financial) from industry players.

• Team Composition: The research team should be interdisciplinary, encompassing experts in engineering, physical sciences, and environmental sciences to ensure a holistic approach.

• Policymaker Collaboration: Effective engagement with policymakers is crucial for translating research findings into real-world solutions and impactful policies. The proposal should outline a strategy for collaborating with policymakers to create a supportive regulatory environment for sustainable industrial practices.

Application Timeline:

The good news is that there's still time to apply! While this isn't an astronomy research opportunity, it presents a unique chance to contribute to a more sustainable future for UK industries. The deadline for submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) is August 7th, 2024, followed by a full application stage.

Remember, this program is all about collaboration and innovation. If you have the expertise and drive to make a difference in sustainable manufacturing, this could be the perfect funding opportunity to bring your ideas to life.