Engineering biology is the application of (rigorous) engineering principles to the design and fabrication of biological components and systems, from modifications of natural systems to new forms of artificial biology. It encompasses the entire innovation ecosystem, from breakthrough synthetic biology research to translation and application.
UKRI is inviting applications for:
- Mission Hubs in Engineering Biology, maximum funding of £13.1 million (100% full economic cost (FEC)) for up to 60 months, with a further £1.15 million capital equipment available per proposal.
- Mission Awards in Engineering Biology, funding ranging from £0.6 million to £1.9 million (100% FEC) for up to 24 months, with a further 20% as capital per proposal.
There will be a single call for proposals comprising two funding options spanning both Mission Hub and Award opportunities, with a mandatory intention to submit closing 5 May 2023 and the deadline for full applications in July 2023 (to be confirmed).
Mission 4 is: Engineering biology for environmental solutions
Supporting the diagnosis and cure of environmental issues. In this mission engineering biology technologies will be developed and applied to address challenges including bioremediation, waste management, carbon-capture, biomining, and resilient, biodiverse agri-environmental systems and ecosystems.
Mission 3 is: Engineering biology for clean growth
Delivering less carbon-intensive and more environmentally sustainable manufacturing processes and supply chains. This mission will present bio-manufacturing solutions, create sustainable and renewable supply chains, and develop efficient and smart power generation and storage solutions, increasing productivity and reducing carbon emissions. It will contribute to achieving the UK government’s ambitious net zero targets.
For this specific opportunity projects must positively demonstrate that they are addressing one or more of the four missions. Projects investigating disruptive approaches with broad applicability can be considered but must have a clear line of sight to at least one mission area. See here.
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