UKRI Digital Research Technical Professional Skills NetworkPlus (Grant)

The UKRI Digital Research Technical Professional Skills NetworkPlus Grant is a critical funding opportunity designed to support the development of advanced technical skills in digital research. Managed by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), this grant aims to foster collaboration and innovation in digital research through the creation of professional skills networks. The goal is to equip technical professionals with the skills needed to drive the UK's digital transformation across various research disciplines.

About the NetworkPlus Grant

The NetworkPlus Grant focuses on building and enhancing the UK’s digital research infrastructure by:

• Creating Professional Networks: Establishing collaborative networks that bring together digital research professionals, industry experts, and academic institutions.
• Supporting Skills Development: Providing funding for programmes that focus on upskilling and reskilling professionals in areas such as data science, software development, high-performance computing, and artificial intelligence (AI).
• Innovating in Digital Research: Encouraging the creation of new tools, methodologies, and frameworks that enhance the UK's digital research capabilities.

The grant promotes cross-sector collaboration, bringing together academia, industry, and government to ensure that the UK remains a leader in the digital research landscape.

Key Benefits of the UKRI Digital Research Technical Professional Skills NetworkPlus Grant

• Skills Development for Digital Transformation: The grant supports projects that enhance the technical skills required to drive innovation in digital research and address the skills gap in critical areas like AI, machine learning, and data science.
• Collaborative Networks: By fostering collaboration between institutions and industries, the grant helps build strong, sustainable networks that support long-term skills development in the digital research field.
• Funding for Training and Development: The grant provides financial support for initiatives focused on training and professional development, ensuring that the UK’s workforce is equipped to meet future challenges in digital research.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the UKRI Digital Research Technical Professional Skills NetworkPlus Grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Partnership Requirement: Projects must involve collaboration between universities, research institutions, and industry partners to create a network that enhances digital research technical skills.
• Focus on Technical Skills: The proposed project must focus on advancing technical skills in digital research, including areas such as data analysis, software development, AI, and digital infrastructure.
• Innovative Approach: The project must demonstrate a clear strategy for building innovative skills development programmes and contributing to the UK’s broader digital research ecosystem.

Funding Opportunities

The NetworkPlus Grant offers several funding options depending on the scale and scope of the project, including:

• Skills Development Programmes: Funding for training and upskilling programmes that focus on critical digital research skills.
• Collaborative Networks: Support for creating and maintaining professional networks that bring together experts from academia, industry, and government.
• Tools and Resources: Financial support for the development of new tools, frameworks, and resources that can be used to enhance digital research practices.

How to Apply for the NetworkPlus Grant

If you are interested in applying for the UKRI Digital Research Technical Professional Skills NetworkPlus Grant, follow these steps:

1. Develop a Proposal: Collaborate with academic institutions and industry partners to create a comprehensive proposal that outlines your project’s goals, methodology, and expected outcomes.
2. Ensure Eligibility: Verify that your project aligns with the grant’s focus on digital research skills and the development of collaborative networks.
3. Submit Your Application: Applications can be submitted via the official UKRI application portal. Be sure to include all relevant documentation, such as project timelines, budget plans, and partnership agreements.

For detailed application guidelines and deadlines, visit the UKRI website or contact the grant administrator for additional information.

Shaping the Future of Digital Research

The UKRI Digital Research Technical Professional Skills NetworkPlus Grant is an exciting opportunity for organisations looking to lead the way in digital research innovation. By creating collaborative networks and advancing technical skills, this grant plays a vital role in shaping the future of digital research in the UK.