Applications are now open for an EPSRC sandpit that will develop collaborative research projects exploring how digital technologies can accelerate materials innovation, with approximately £7.12 million available to support resulting projects.
Following the pre-announcement in September, researchers and industry representatives are invited to apply to attend the Materials Innovation Programme Digital Materials Sandpit, taking place in Cheshire on 1–4 February 2027.
Delivered by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) through the National Materials Innovation Programme (NMIP), the opportunity will bring together expertise across materials science, computing, engineering and other disciplines to develop new collaborations.
Participants will explore how approaches including artificial intelligence, automation, digital twins and improved data management can help materials research progress towards practical application.
Advancing Materials 4.0
The opportunity builds on the National Materials Innovation Strategy, facilitated by the Henry Royce Institute on behalf of the UK materials community. The strategy identified Materials 4.0 as a priority spanning the sector, recognising the potential of digital technologies to transform how materials are discovered, developed, manufactured and brought to market.
The sandpit will support this ambition by helping multidisciplinary teams develop proposals that address shared challenges and accelerate the adoption of digital approaches.
Apply to participate
The first step is to submit an expression of interest to attend the sandpit by 4pm on 26 November 2026.
Selected participants must attend the full residential workshop and an online introduction planned for the preceding week.
EPSRC expects to fund three to eight projects lasting up to 33 months, at 80% of their full economic cost. Teams recommended for funding following the sandpit will be invited to submit a full application through the UKRI Funding Service. Attendance does not guarantee funding.
Applicants seeking funding must meet EPSRC eligibility requirements. Industry representatives are encouraged to participate as project partners, although businesses cannot receive funding directly through this scheme.
Read the full eligibility criteria and submit an expression of interest through UKRI.
