RCUK welcomes additional funding for science and research

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Research Councils UK (RCUK) welcomes additional Government investment in research infrastructure and in particular the announcement today of a number of new university and business research partnerships, allocated by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) through the UK Research Partnership Investment Fund (UK RPIF).

Unlocking research opportunities requires both highly technical and often expensive infrastructure. Continued investment is therefore essential to enable the UK to maintain its world-leading position in research and to continue to make vital contributions to economic growth and social wellbeing.

The announcement was made today (1 November) by David Willetts, Minister for Universities and Skills, following a £200 million additional investment from Government. The Government contribution of £300 million in total has been combined with business and charity investment to bring the Fund’s total to £1 billion."

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Further information

Contact:
Katie Clark
Press and Communications Manager
Tel: 01793 444592 or email: Katie Clark

Notes to editors

1. The BIS announcement is available here.

2. Research Councils UK (RCUK) is the strategic partnership of the UK's seven Research Councils who annually invest around £3 billion in research. We support excellent research, as judged by peer review, that has an impact on the growth, prosperity and wellbeing of the UK. To maintain the UK’s global research position we offer a diverse range of funding opportunities, foster international collaborations and provide access to the best facilities and infrastructure around the world. We also support the training and career development of researchers and work with them to inspire young people and engage the wider public with research. To maximise the impact of research on economic growth and societal wellbeing we work in partnership with other research funders including the Technology Strategy Board, the UK Higher Education funding bodies, business, government, and charitable organisations. 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).