This funding opportunity aims to establish a UK multidisciplinary centre for neuromorphic computing. The centre will serve as a focal point for research in this field, engaging relevant disciplines, fostering international collaborations, and demonstrating the potential of neuromorphic computing to deliver NetZero solutions for emerging technologies and applications. The funding opportunity is open to UK research organisations eligible for Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) funding.

Scope of Work

The UK multidisciplinary centre for neuromorphic computing will address fundamental research challenges in neuromorphic computing. The centre will act as a focal point for the UK research community, building collaborations and identifying future challenges. The centre will focus on the development of neuromorphic computing as a viable option for non von Neumann computing, reducing energy requirements for applications such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and cloud and distributed computing.

Eligibility

To be eligible for this funding opportunity, applicants must be based at a UK research organisation eligible for EPSRC funding. EPSRC standard eligibility rules apply. The UKRI-RCN Money Follows Cooperation Agreement does not apply to this funding opportunity, so grants cannot include a Norway-based international co-project lead. Resubmissions of projects previously submitted to UKRI or any other funder will not be accepted.

Budget and Duration

The full economic cost (FEC) of the project can be up to £5,600,000. EPSRC will fund 80% of the FEC, with a maximum duration of four years. The funding will cover directly allocated costs such as project lead and co-leads’ salaries, as well as directly incurred costs such as travel and subsistence, professional enabling staff, and organisation of activities. Up to £2,500,000 (80%) can be requested as flexible funding to address the challenges of neuromorphic computing identified by the research centre.

Additional Information

The research centre is expected to consist of a virtual or physical research centre based around a single research organisation or multi-institution with an identified lead research organisation. The centre should serve as an open platform, accessible to researchers participating in neuromorphic computing research. The centre will carry out a two-stage fundamental research programme, with the first stage addressing neuromorphic computing research challenges as currently understood and the second stage tackling prioritised challenges identified through the roadmap.

Key Dates

• Opening Date: 10 September 2024 9:00am UK time

• Closing Date: 5 November 2024 4:00pm UK time

• Webinar: 2 October 2024 10:00am

Application Process

• Applications must be submitted through the new UKRI Funding Service.

• The project lead is responsible for completing the application process.

• Only the lead research organisation can submit an application to UKRI.

Selection Process

• Applications will be reviewed by an expert review panel.

• The panel will assess the quality of the application and rank it alongside other applications.

• Decisions will be communicated by March - April 2025.

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