Focused Funding 2026 FAQs

How do I submit an application?

Proposals should be submitted as a one-page A4 document, single spaced, 11 point font, with at least 10mm margins.  Please send this to info@ukccsrc.ac.uk by 5pm, 24th February 2026.

The exact format is at the discretion of the proposer, but it must include the following information:

• Applicant information (including full name, contact information, affiliated institute) and researcher team, relevant expertise/track record
• Which focused topic the proposal is addressing, and details of proposed research and activities
• Outline cost breakdown into:
  • supervision costs
  • research staff costs
  • T&S costs
  • other costs with descriptions
  • estates and other directly allocated charges (at agreed Research Council rates)
• Deliverables and impact plan

Do I need a letter of support from my home institution?

While all applications must be approved at the applicant’s home institution before they are submitted to the UKCCSRC, an official letter of support is not required at this stage (with the exception in the next question).

I’m an ECR, can I be a PI for a project?

ECRs can be a PI if their organisation will let them, as our purchase order is legally with their institution.  We ask for a letter with the proposal confirming this, unless the ECR is eligible to be a full academic member of the UKCCSRC (i.e. has the sort of academic post where they can be a PI on EPSRC grants).  If an ECR is not eligible, then they will have to get a suitable academic as a PI and can go on as a Co-I.

There is no requirement for an ECR to have a Co-I if they have the letter or the right sort of academic post (i.e. where they can be a PI on EPSRC grants).

My project will go on past the stated end date of 30th June 2026, is that okay?

Unfortunately no extensions will be given beyond this date due to the current grant end date of the UKCCSRC Network+,

Do I need to be part of a network/partnership to apply?

No, you can apply as an individual.  It is entirely at the discretion of applicants to enter into whatever partnerships they think can best accomplish the specified research.

Can Limited companies apply for this funding?

Unfortunately, Limited companies can not receive EPSRC funding.  They can collaborate with an eligible UK research organisation, but that organisation would have to be the applicant.