Minister announces 350 million investment to train future science leaders

One of the UK's largest investments in training for the engineering and physical sciences was announced today by Minister for Universities and Science, David Willetts.

Speaking at the think tank Policy Exchange, Mr Willetts announced the forthcoming £350 million call to be issued in February by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).

Mr Willetts said: "Maintaining a healthy supply of skilled scientists, researchers and engineers is vital to our economy and society. That's why I'm pleased to announce that EPSRC will be inviting universities to apply for a share of the £350 million available to support doctoral training in priority areas. This investment will ensure we have the knowledge and expertise to tackle the major challenges we face in the 21st century, from improving healthcare to developing greener energy."

Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs) are one of the three main ways by which EPSRC provides support for Doctoral Training. The other routes are the Doctoral Training Grant and Industrial Case Studentships. The call for new Centres will be available from 6th February on the EPSRC website.

EPSRC's Chief Executive, Professor David Delpy said: "Developing the talented leaders of tomorrow is a key goal for EPSRC and we recognise the need to support researchers at all stages of their careers, providing the right environment in which to grow.

"Future economic growth will depend on our ability to develop the right people with the right skills in key sectors. The Centre for Doctoral Training model has already proved highly effective in training cohorts of world class students and drawing in expertise from industry and business. This new call will focus on over 60 priority areas identified after engagement with the scientific community."

Provided by Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council