The EPSRC Manufacturing the Future theme will issue a series of batching dates during 2017 and 2018 for investigator-led proposals. Submitted proposals will either be considered at a manufacturing-focussed prioritisation panel (if there is sufficient demand) or via a separate list at an Engineering panel. Proposals should address key research challenges facing manufacturing in the UK today and in the future. This activity is intended to highlight the theme’s long term ambition to increase the number of investigator-led research ideas we support. To be considered for a panel in autumn 2017 proposals should be submitted before 31 July 2017.

To be considered for the panel in early 2018 proposals should be submitted by 03 October 2017. A Manufacturing Panel will be held in early 2018 to align with a parallel highlight notice (to be announced separately). Proposals submitted after these dates, or those that do not have sufficient reviews in time for the panel, will be assessed by the most appropriate panel at a later date The Manufacturing the Future theme has prioritised funding to support investigator-led research projects in manufacturing, with up to £3.2 million per panel available (dependent on demand and quality of proposals). Should there be insufficient demand we reserve the right for proposals to be considered at the most appropriate capability theme panel meeting