The UK has launched a £1.1bn investment to support over 4,000 PhD students in technology fields, announced by Science and Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan.
This funding, a collaboration between the government, businesses, charities, and academia, aims to bolster the nation's technological prowess and innovation capacity.
The initiative prioritises educational diversity, offering numerous PhD opportunities at universities beyond London and the South East including Glasgow, Edinburgh, Bristol, Sheffield and Manchester.
“By doubling down on our investments in skills and backing British business, we can lay the foundations for an economy fit for the future – an economy that creates jobs and improves lives for communities up and down the country,” Donelan said. “That is how we make our science and tech superpower mission a success.”
Each institution will focus on research areas, from digital chemistry and AI in drug development at the University of Bristol to advanced engineering for personalised surgery at King’s College London. Other focus areas include semiconductors, quantum technologies, and next-generation telecoms.
Additionally, the government is investing £60m in quantum technology skills, part of which will fund 100 quantum PhD placements and support for early career researchers. A £4m pilot aims to create apprenticeships in quantum computing.
Professor Sheila Rowan, Chair of the Quantum Skills Taskforce, said: “More than doubling the number of quantum Centres for Doctoral Training demonstrates the UK’s long-term commitment to quantum technologies.”
This initiative follows the Chancellor’s announcement of a £7.4m AI upskilling fund, inviting small and medium-sized enterprises to participate.
Moreover, the government is seeking a partner for the £3m Science and Technology Venture Capital Fellowship Programme, aiming to enhance the UK's venture capital expertise in science and technology.
A new Future Telecoms Skills Taskforce has also been established to ensure the UK develops the skills necessary for a digital future.
