About EPSRC

We are the main UK government agency for funding research and training in engineering and the physical sciences, investing around £500 million a year in a broad range of subjects – from mathematics to materials science, and from information technology to structural engineering.

We operate to meet the needs of industry and society by working in partnership with universities to invest in people and scientific discovery and innovation. The knowledge and expertise gained maintains a technological leading edge, builds a strong economy and improves people's quality of life.

Our work is complementary to other research investors including other research councils, government agencies, industry and the European Union. We actively engage in and encourage partnerships and collaborations across disciplines, boundaries and the world.

We also actively promote public engagement in science, engineering and technology.

Mission and Vision

Our mission is to:

Promote and support, by any means, high quality basic, strategic and applied research and related postgraduate training in engineering and the physical sciences.

Advance knowledge and technology (including the promotion and support of the exploitation of research outcomes), and provide trained scientists and engineers, which meet the needs of users and beneficiaries (including the chemical, communications, construction, electrical, electronic, energy, engineering, information technology, pharmaceutical, process and other industries), thereby contributing to the economic competitiveness of Our United Kingdom and the quality of life.

In relation to the activities above, as engaged in by the Council and in such manner as the Council may see fit, to:

Generate public awareness

Communicate research outcomes

Encourage public engagement and dialogue

Disseminate knowledge

Provide advice

Our vision is for the UK to be the most dynamic and stimulating environment in which to engage in research and innovation.
We will deliver a significant and visible contribution towards:

Excellence - supporting world class people and projects through open, transparent and effective operations.

Engagement - building strong alliances throughout the research and innovation system involving researchers themselves, business, funding partners, the public and our own staff.

Empowerment - promoting an enterprising culture of adventure and excitement in which people seize opportunities and make things happen.

Facts and Figures

Click here for facts and figures about the EPSRC