Research infrastructure

In engineering and physical sciences research a world-class infrastructure comprises not just large high-specification equipment and access to central facilities, but also the distributed investment in laboratory-based equipment and the technical support needed to ensure its productivity.

Use of computational approaches such as modelling and simulation, software development and data analysis capabilities are a pervasive component of 21st century research infrastructure and are critical to sharpening the UK's industrial competitiveness.

Through our "Future Proofing state of the art Research Infrastructure" Delivery Plan priority we acknowledge the relationship between laboratory-based, distributed facilities and large-scale campus-based facilities. We also seek to ensure maximum availability and sharing of equipment across organisations, to realise the benefits from our infrastructure investments. 

The Research infrastructure theme focuses on ensuring the right infrastructure is available to EPSRC-sponsored researchers at the right time in the most economic way possible.