Nanotechnology companies are being encouraged to tap in to research taking place in UK universities.
An award scheme has been announced by the government-funded NanoKTN aims to increase engagement between industry and academia.
The first award scheme is in partnership with the University of Surrey and will offer companies funding to encourage them to undertake a feasibility study using the University’s research resource.
“At the University we encourage research into relevant and practical applications and by working with the NanoKTN’s BlueSkyNano award scheme and bringing together industry and academia,” said Sophie Woodward, project manager of the knowledge transfer account at the University of Surrey.
“Developing relationships between industry and academia offer a fast-track route to realising the significant benefits that nanotechnology can bring to many UK industries, gaining competitive advantage and market share,” said Martin Kemp, theme manager at the
NanoKTN.
The funding is available to all SMEs working in the nanotechnology space.
Applications will be reviewed by the Research and Enterprise staff at the University of Surrey and successful applicants will be introduced to suitable academics to deliver the project. As well as working as part of BlueSkyNano, there will also be opportunities for further funding using KTA (Knowledge Transfer Account) /KTP (Knowledge
Transfer Partnerships)/IDC (Integrated Doctoral Centre) mechanisms.
The call for applications opened on 13th September 12010 and will close on the 26th November 2010.