Work With Our Research - Industry Collaborations and Funding
There are many ways for companies to collaborate with us on research and development projects, and to access the knowledge, expertise, skills and technologies of the School. Our academic staff collaborate with companies, applying their research expertise and innovative solutions to business challenges. Companies can invest in such research with us directly, or make use of grants and funding initiatives to support innovation and academic-industry collaborations. Further information on some grant opportunities and funding models are detailed below.
Innovate UK
Innovate UK funds a wide range of grants and competitions to support business-led research and development. Many of these initiatives support companies to work in partnership with academic experts, or to subcontract R&D work to universities. Funding calls are usually around specific themes although some grants are open at all times.
Knowledge Transfer Partnerships
Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) enable businesses to work with universities on a specific project, bringing knowledge and expertise from the academic realm into an organisation to help solve important technical or business problems, including developing and applying new technologies. A KTP Associate, a recently qualified graduate, will work within your business to manage the project, apply their own knowledge, and ensure that University expertise is available to your company. The business will also access the time and expertise of a relevant member of academic staff who will co-supervise the associate and contribute to the project. UKRI contributes 50% - 75% of the project costs depending on the size and nature of the business. For more information about KTPs visit https://www.ukri.org/councils/innovate-uk/guidance-for-applicants/guidance-for-specific-funds/knowledge-transfer-partnership-guidance/
Innovation Vouchers
The Scottish Funding Council, in partnership with Interface - The Knowledge Connection for Business, provide up to £5,000 to fund an initial collaboration between companies and academic researchers. The applying company is required to match this contribution in cash or in-kind. For full details see, https://interface-online.org.uk/vouchers/standard-innovation-vouchers/.
Defence Science Technology Laboratory (DSTL)
Organisations developing technologies with potential defence or security applications may wish to collaborate with the School on DSTL-led funding calls and commercial opportunities. Current opportunities can be viewed via https://www.gov.uk/guidance/how-to-sell-to-dstl-industry-academia-and-other-research-organisations