The Nanoscale and Microscale Research Centre, supported by the University of Nottingham and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council invite applications for its NanoPrime scheme. This aims to catalyse the development of innovative methods in materials characterisation through equipment and expertise sharing by: enabling high-risk, high-gain science; delivering research excellence; enhancing interdisciplinary research and collaboration; providing training in nanoscience and nanotechnology; providing opportunities to researchers for networking. Funding is available through the following two streams:

•proof-of-concept studies, often seeking to appraise instrument capabilities and applicability to a particular sample, worth up to £2,000;

•pump priming projects, often involving a significant amount of experimental method development, worth up to £15,000.

In both cases, projects should be speculative or novel in nature and not yet ready for external funding applications.

Engineering and physical science researchers across UK HEIs and partner research organisations may apply. Academics at any career stage and postdoctoral researchers are eligible. Current EPSRC funding is not required.

Requests for funding should include access charges for instruments at the Nanoscale and Microscale Research Centre, and consumables and travel may also be included.