Promoting Cross-Disciplinary Research: Engineering and Physical Sciences and Economic and Social Sciences

Closing date: 12 October 2010 (intent to submit proposals due 2 August).

The focus of this call is on building research collaborations between engineering and physical sciences (EPS) and economic and social sciences (ESS) while also supporting transformative, cross-disciplinary research.

EPSRC is interested in two thematic areas and one of these is relevant to development sciences.

Themes

Innovation at the bottom of the pyramid. For example, low income or marginalised groups. This could include:
- Novel technologies for developing countries or deprived social systems.
- Disruptive technologies for development
Quantitative Aspects of Understanding Behaviours
Covers behaviour such as: social relations, social practices, social structures, organisational behaviour, economic behaviour and social institutions.

EPSRC intend a broad interpretation of each thematic area and there may be topics that underpin these themes, for example, social cohesion, ethics and trust; no specific areas are excluded.

Funding

Up to £6 million has been earmarked for this targeted activity and it is anticipated that four proposals will be funded.

Eligibility

All UK higher education institutions, research council institutes and independent research organisations are eligible to apply. See the list of eligible organisations for more information.

Application process

Registration of intent to submit a full proposal, by 1200 on 10 September 2010.
A "webinar" session will be held on 2 August 2010 (details and timings to be confirmed) to give potential applicants an opportunity to learn more about the call.
Deadline for full proposals: 4pm, 12 October 2010