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Research: Cyber Infrastructure

Volume 703: debated on Tuesday 22 July 2008

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they intend to increase funding for cyber-infrastructure research projects in companies and universities in 2008-09 and 2009-10. [HL4537]

The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) provides opportunities for funding for cyber-infrastructure research through its Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) programme, which will be investing £225 million in new research grants in the period 2008-09 to 2010-11, and through the Digital Economy programme, which will be investing £83 million in new research grants in 2008-09 to 2010-11.

The Technology Strategy Board is currently developing a UK technology strategy in the areas of “Information and Communication Technologies”, and “Electronics, Photonics and Electrical Systems”. Funding will also be provided to stimulate business research and innovation focused on addressing key societal challenges such as “Intelligent Transport Systems and Services”, “Assisted Living” and “Low Impact Buildings”, which could provide opportunities for funding cyber-infrastructure research where appropriate. Funding in these areas will be approximately £40 million per annum.

DIUS investments in space technologies, while not directed at cyber-infrastructure, may in the future and in some cases find a use in related applications.