This round closed on 8 September 2026. The details below are from that round.
NERC (UKRI)
Aviation's Non-CO2 Impacts on the Climate 2026
4:00pm UK time
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NERC funds research on aviation's non-CO2 climate impacts through this one-off call, with up to £308,340 per project over a maximum of 14 months. The call welcomes researchers at any career stage based in UK institutions and spans three themes: improving contrail and aerosol prediction, assessing alternative fuels (SAF, hydrogen, fuel cells), and supporting climate-informed aviation policy decisions. Industrial partnerships are encouraged; up to six projects will be funded.
Details
| Funder | NERC (UKRI) |
| Budget | Up to £308,340 (80% of £385,425 FEC) per project |
| Duration | Maximum 14 months |
| Consortium | No |
| Application | Single stage |
| TRL | 1-4 |
| Frequency | One-off |
| Eligible countries | GB |
Eligibility & scope
Open to UK research groups and individuals (any career stage, subject to NERC eligibility). Focuses on aviation non-CO2 climate impacts across three themes: contrail/aerosol prediction confidence, future fuels (SAF, hydrogen, fuel cells), and decision-making support. Projects with industrial partnerships encouraged. Up to 6 projects funded; projects must start no later than 1 February 2027. UK host institution required.
Who Should Apply
- •UK-based researchers at any career stage hosted at a recognised UK institution
- •Research groups with expertise in atmospheric science, climate modelling, or aviation engineering
- •Projects bridging science and policy, with evidence of stakeholder engagement or industrial partnership
- •Research addressing contrail/aerosol prediction, alternative fuel impacts, or decision-support tools
Key Dates
- •Deadline: 8 September 2026 at 4:00 pm UK time
- •Single-stage application process
- •Maximum 14-month project duration; projects must start by 1 February 2027
Tips for Applicants
- ✓Align your project to one of the three named themes (contrail/aerosol prediction, future fuels, or decision-making support); proposals spanning all three dilute focus and score lower.
- ✓Industrial partnerships and named end-users (airlines, regulators, fuel suppliers) strengthen competitiveness; include a letter of support if applicable.
- ✓This is a one-off call with only six projects to fund; pitch feasibility within 14 months and forefront early-stage, high-impact results over comprehensive closure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the NERC Aviation Non-CO2 call fund per project?
Up to £308,340 per project, which covers 80% of the full economic costing.
Who is eligible to apply to this NERC call?
UK research groups and individuals at any career stage, hosted at a UK institution and meeting NERC eligibility criteria.
What research topics does this call cover?
Three themes: improving contrail and aerosol prediction confidence, evaluating future fuels (SAF, hydrogen, fuel cells), and supporting aviation climate decision-making.
When does this call close and when must projects start?
The deadline is 8 September 2026 at 4:00 pm UK time; funded projects must start by 1 February 2027.
Related on Grantsby
- NERC (UKRI) writing tips & FAQ
Evaluation criteria, proposal structure, common mistakes.
Summary generated by AI based on published grant information. Always verify details on the funder's website.
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