Research Councils UK (RCUK) have today launched two new websites which explore
the areas of Digital Economy and Nanoscience research, two major multi-disciplinary
programme areas funded by RCUK. The websites give details of research currently
being funded in these areas and include case studies of where this research is making
an impact on society and the economy.
The RCUK Digital Economy Programme is investing £120 million in UK research exploring
the design or use of information and communications technologies transforming the
lives of individuals, society and business. Digital Economy research funded by the
programme covers a wide range of areas from helping improve patient care in hospitals
to enhancing UK creative industries. Some areas of Digital Economy research highlighted
on the website include:
- The Digital Hospital of the future will use new technologies to improve
patient admission times and ultimately help save money.
- New computer software technology that helps children with disabilities talk
and play games with family and friends.
- Digital technologies that can help people who live in rural communities
get access to key services such as emergency healthcare.
The new website is available at:
http://www.rcuk.ac.uk/digitaleconomy
The RCUK Nanoscience Through Engineering to Application Programme is investing
in research across a number of disciplines including chemistry, physics, biology,
medicine and engineering. Nanoscience refers to the science of the very small (a
billionth of a meter) and nanotechnologies can provide novel solutions to a variety
of societal issues such as climate change and improving human health.
Some areas of Nanoscience research featured on the website include:
- ‘Nanotags’ made from pollen can help police trace people who have handled
bullets and guns used in crimes.
- Researching the way small insects can hear is helping researchers develop
new ultra sensitive microphones.
- Using nanoparticles in body armour for police and the armed forces makes
it more flexible and lighter to wear, and therefore more effective.
The new website is available at:
www.rcuk.ac.uk/nano
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Further Information
Contact:
Jane Wakefield
RCUK Press and Communications Manager
Tel: 01793 444592
Research Councils UK
Research Councils UK is the strategic partnership of the UK's seven Research
Councils. We invest annually around £3 billion in research. Our focus is on excellence
with impact. We nurture the highest quality research, as judged by international
peer review providing the UK with a competitive advantage. Global research requires
we sustain a diversity of funding approaches, fostering international collaborations,
and providing access to the best facilities and infrastructure, and locating skilled
researchers in stimulating environments. Our research achieves impact – the demonstrable
contribution to society and the economy made by knowledge and skilled people. To
deliver impact, researchers and businesses need to engage and collaborate with the
public, business, government and the third sector.
www.rcuk.ac.uk
The seven UK Research Councils are:
- Arts & Humanities Research Council (AHRC);
- Biotechnology & Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC);
- Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC);
- Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC);
- Medical Research Council (MRC);
- Natural Environment Research Council (NERC);
- Science & Technology Facilities Council (STFC).