EPSRC-Defra Reimagining Circularity: full stage
EPSRC-Defra Reimagining Circularity funds interdisciplinary UK research networks to advance circular economy solutions in data, metrics, and textiles, supported by UK Research and Innovation.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: November 3, 2026 (Closing date)
Funding Amounts: Up to £5.41M (100% FEC) per award; 80% FEC funded by UKRI; total fund £8.656M; project duration up to 36 months.
Summary: Supports UK research networks (NetworkPlus) to drive innovation and collaboration for circular economy solutions in data/metrics and textiles.
Key Information: Invitation-only: full proposals accepted from teams successful at outline stage.
Description
This opportunity, delivered by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) in partnership with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), aims to fund two major NetworkPlus investments. The focus is on building vibrant, interdisciplinary research communities in the UK to accelerate the development and adoption of circular economy solutions in two challenge areas: data and metrics, and textiles.
NetworkPlus awards are intended to foster collaboration across academia, industry, policy, and third sector stakeholders, supporting community building, knowledge exchange, and translational research. The initiative emphasizes whole-systems thinking, inclusive partnerships, and responsible research practices, with a strong focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). The flexible fund component enables rapid response to emerging opportunities, feasibility studies, and seed-corn funding, driving systemic change towards a resilient, low-carbon, and resource-efficient UK economy.
