- Realising our potential - A strategy for Science, Engineering and Technology (PDF 3MB)
The 1993 UK Government report which led to the formation of EPSRC
Our beginnings
Science Research Council (SRC) 1965 - 1981
SRC was formed in 1965 to address issues highlighted by the Trend Committee to do with the organisation of civil science in the UK. Previously the Minister for Science had been responsible for defining research activities and the Treasury made decisions about the priority for funding
Science and Engineering Research Council (SERC) 1981 - 1994
SERC was formed in 1981 to reflect the increased emphasis on engineering research and was responsible for all publicly-funded scientific engineering and research activities, including astronomy, biotechnology and biological sciences, space research and particle physics in the UK.
Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) 1994 - Present
SERC was split into discipline specific areas after a report (available below) carried out by the then Director General of the Research Councils in 1993. This resulted in the formation of EPSRC by Royal Charter in 1994. A Supplemental Charter was granted in 2003.