EPSRC
Future Computing Paradigms Network Plus
Expression of Interest deadline (EoI open 3 Aug–11 Sep 2026); full application deadline TBC
Last verified:
The Future Computing Paradigms Network Plus invites UK-based researchers to lead a five-year strategic initiative developing a whole-systems vision and roadmap for novel computing architectures, hardware, software, and applications over the next 5-20 years. EPSRC is providing up to £2.24M (80% FEC) to establish a coordinated network that will inform the UK's computing research landscape. International researchers may join as project co-leads under UKRI-RCN Money Follows Cooperation; successful applicants must engage with National Security & Defence stakeholders and may undergo security vetting.
Details
| Funder | EPSRC |
| Budget | Up to £2.24M (80% of £2.8M FEC) |
| Deadline | 11 September 2026 |
| Duration | 5 years |
| Consortium | Optional — international researchers may join as project co-lead (international) under UKRI-RCN Money Follows Cooperation; other international collaborators included as project partners |
| Application | 2-stage: Expression of Interest (by 11 Sep 2026) → full application |
| Frequency | One-off |
| Eligible countries | GB |
Eligibility & scope
Network Plus to develop a UK whole-systems vision and strategic roadmap for future computing paradigms (5–20 year horizon), covering novel architectures, hardware, software, and applications. Applicants must be UK-based at EPSRC-eligible organisations. Successful applicants must engage with National Security & Defence stakeholders and may be subject to security checks. International researchers may only participate as project co-leads under the UKRI-RCN agreement.
Who Should Apply
- •UK-based researchers at EPSRC-eligible organisations (universities, research institutes, collaborating organisations)
- •Research groups with expertise in computing architectures, hardware, software, or cross-disciplinary computing applications
- •Applicants able to coordinate a multi-institutional network and engage strategically with National Security & Defence stakeholders
- •Consortia willing to develop a five-year roadmap spanning fundamental and applied computing research
Key Dates
- •Expression of Interest deadline: 11 September 2026
- •Full application deadline: TBC (to be announced after EoI stage)
- •Five-year project duration
Tips for Applicants
- ✓The EoI stage is competitive and brief; use it to signal your network's scope and strategic vision clearly. EPSRC will be assessing alignment with national computing priorities, not just research excellence.
- ✓Plan security vetting early if your consortium includes sensitive research areas; delays at this stage can slow full-application submission. Engage National Security & Defence stakeholders as named partners from the outset.
- ✓International co-leads strengthen the application under UKRI-RCN but add administrative overhead, clarify co-lead roles and funding flows before submitting the EoI.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the budget for the Future Computing Paradigms Network Plus?
Up to £2.24M (representing 80% of the £2.8M Full Economic Cost) over the five-year project duration.
Who is eligible to apply for the Future Computing Paradigms Network Plus?
UK-based researchers at EPSRC-eligible organisations. International researchers may participate only as project co-leads under the UKRI-RCN Money Follows Cooperation agreement.
What does the Future Computing Paradigms Network Plus fund?
Strategic development of a whole-systems vision and roadmap for future computing paradigms (5-20 year horizon), covering novel architectures, hardware, software, and applications.
How many stages does the application have?
Two stages: Expression of Interest (deadline 11 September 2026) followed by full application (deadline to be announced).
Can international researchers lead this project?
No, the lead applicant must be UK-based at an EPSRC-eligible organisation, but international researchers may join as project co-leads under UKRI-RCN Money Follows Cooperation.
Summary generated by AI based on published grant information. Always verify details on the funder's website.
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