All news (2012)

News archive: 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | 2009

Antarctic lake mission called off

27 Dec 2012
In the early hours of Christmas Day Professor Martin Siegert of the Subglacial Lake Ellsworth experiment confirmed that the mission to drill into the lake has been called off for this season. Antarctic lake mission called off

NERC seeks new Director for BAS

21 Dec 2012
NERC is looking for a new BAS director; full details are available on the BAS Director website. NERC seeks new Director for BAS

The closing date is 17 Jan 2013

New genetics project could help save the ash tree

21 Dec 2012
NERC-funded scientists plan to decode the ash tree's entire genetic sequence in the hope of stopping Britain's trees from being completely devastated by the Chalara ash dieback fungal disease. New genetics project could help save the ash tree

Drop-in sessions for NERC Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTP) competition - January 2013

20 Dec 2012
We are offering potential applicants a second opportunity to meet in private with NERC staff to discuss the DTP competition. Drop-in sessions for NERC Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTP) competition - January 2013

The closing date is 9 Jan 2013

Marine Ecosystems programme - Facilitation workshop presentations

19 Dec 2012
Presentations by the main speakers and delegates at this workshop, held at PML on 6 December 2012, are now available. If you wish to access them, please contact Rachel Leader. Marine Ecosystems programme - Facilitation workshop presentations

Announcement of Opportunity: Call for IRNH Fellowships

13 Dec 2012
NERC and ESRC are seeking to appoint two IRNH Knowledge Exchange Fellows for the Increasing Resilience to Natural Hazards in Earthquake-prone and Volcanic Regions (IRNH) programme. Announcement of Opportunity: Call for IRNH Fellowships

The closing date is 12 Feb 2013

British Geological Survey team scoop top prize

13 Dec 2012
A team of budding entrepreneurs from the British Geological Survey has scooped the top prize at the Environment Young Entrepreneurs Scheme (YES) 2012 competition. British Geological Survey team scoop top prize

Science plan and pre-announcement of opportunity

10 Dec 2012
The Mineral Resources Expert Group Science Plan and recommendations for delivery of the research programme and subsequent calls is now available. Science plan and pre-announcement of opportunity

Announcement of Opportunity: ESPA 2013 grants

7 Dec 2012
Outline bids are invited for the latest ESPA grants round, in which applicants can apply to one of three research themes that have been identified as key knowledge and evidence gaps within the programme. Announcement of Opportunity: ESPA 2013 grants

The closing date is 23 Jan 2013

NERC as part of RCUK welcomes £600 million investment in research and innovation

6 Dec 2012
Research Councils UK (RCUK) is delighted to welcome the new £600m funding for research and innovation announced 5 December by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne, during his Autumn Statement. NERC as part of RCUK welcomes £600 million investment in research and innovation

Top conservation issues to look out for in 2013

6 Dec 2012
A UK-led team of researchers has identified 15 issues that could affect the diversity of life on Earth in 2013. Top conservation issues to look out for in 2013

NERC / BBSRC Sustainable Agriculture Research and Innovation Club - Industry workshop

5 Dec 2012
This workshop in London on 20 February 2013 will help develop an industry-led collaborative research and knowledge translation programme to address key challenges surrounding sustainable agriculture. NERC / BBSRC Sustainable Agriculture Research and Innovation Club - Industry workshop

Announcement of Opportunity: Shelf Sea Biogeochemistry

30 Nov 2012
Studentship proposals are invited for this programme, which aims to reduce the uncertainty in our understanding of nutrient and carbon cycling within the shelf seas and their overall role in global biogeochemical cycles. Announcement of Opportunity: Shelf Sea Biogeochemistry

The closing date is 24 Jan 2013

NERC-funded researchers win Lloyd's Science of Risk Prizes

30 Nov 2012
Environmental scientists scoop top prize for Climate Change and Natural Hazards categories. NERC-funded researchers win Lloyd's Science of Risk Prizes

RCUK's Strategic Framework for Capital Investment

29 Nov 2012
This framework will help Research Council's plan long term investments in capital infrastructure. RCUK's Strategic Framework for Capital Investment

New publication highlights best practice for citizen science projects

28 Nov 2012
A new practical guide to developing, implementing and evaluating citizen science projects to monitor the environment has been produced by the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology and the Natural History Museum. New publication highlights best practice for citizen science projects

Reducing risk from natural hazards

27 Nov 2012
A new government Foresight report is published today and NERC announces new research to change the way natural hazards are assessed. Reducing risk from natural hazards

NERC grant final reports

26 Nov 2012
NERC grants with an end date on or after 1 January 2013 will no longer be required to submit a final report. NERC grant final reports

Announcement of Opportunity: Marine Ecosystems

20 Nov 2012
NERC invites outline proposals for the Marine Ecosystems research programme, which will improve our understanding of how marine ecosystems are being impacted by on-going environmental change. Announcement of Opportunity: Marine Ecosystems

The closing date is 31 Jan 2013

Announcement of Opportunity: 2012 Catalyst Grants

19 Nov 2012
Outline proposals are invited to deliver a major new research programme on Unlocking the Potential for Groundwater for the Poor in sub-Saharan Africa. Announcement of Opportunity: 2012 Catalyst Grants

The closing date is 10 Jan 2013

Announcement of Opportunity: South Asian Monsoon workshop

16 Nov 2012
Applications are invited for UK scientists wishing to attend a joint workshop with the Indian Ministry of Earth Sciences in New Delhi, India, on 4-6 February 2013. Announcement of Opportunity: South Asian Monsoon workshop

The closing date is 12 Dec 2012

Win-win for Cornish farmers and South West Water in first auction to reduce river pollution

12 Nov 2012
Farmers with land close to the River Fowey in Cornwall are getting a helping hand from South West Water to make improvements to their farms that in turn will help reduce pollutants seeping into the river. Win-win for Cornish farmers and South West Water in first auction to reduce river pollution

2013 PhD allocation now available

2 Nov 2012
The 2013 responsive mode (algorithm) PhD allocation is now available. 2013 PhD allocation now available

Marine Ecosystems programme facilitation workshop

2 Nov 2012
NERC would like to invite attendance at the Marine Ecosystems facilitation workshop in Plymouth on Thursday 6 December 2012. Marine Ecosystems programme facilitation workshop

The closing date is 23 Nov 2012

Outcome of NERC Council meeting to consider proposal to merge BAS and NOC

2 Nov 2012
NERC Council announces the outcome of its meeting on 1 November 2012 to consider the proposal to merge the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) and National Oceanography Centre (NOC). Outcome of NERC Council meeting to consider proposal to merge BAS and NOC

Announcement of Opportunity: Doctoral Training Partnership competition

1 Nov 2012
Proposals are invited for the new NERC Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) competition. Announcement of Opportunity: Doctoral Training Partnership competition

The closing date is 1 May 2013

Zoonoses and Emerging Livestock Systems (ZELS) - call for proposals

29 Oct 2012
The Zoonoses and Emerging Livestock Systems (ZELS): Reducing the risk to livestock and people programme call is now live on BBSRC's website. This programme is jointly funded by BBSRC, DFID, ESRC, MRC and NERC. Zoonoses and Emerging Livestock Systems (ZELS) - call for proposals

The closing date is 10 Jan 2013

NERC Doctoral Training Partnerships competition - Town meeting

25 Oct 2012
A town meeting will be held on 11 December to introduce the new NERC Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) scheme and to discuss an Announcement of Opportunity. NERC Doctoral Training Partnerships competition - Town meeting

The closing date is 23 Nov 2012

Announcement of Opportunity - Biodiversity and Ecosystem Processes in Human Modified Tropical Forests

25 Oct 2012
NERC invites full proposals for a major new collaborative five-year research programme on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Processes in Human Modified Tropical Forests. Announcement of Opportunity - Biodiversity and Ecosystem Processes in Human Modified Tropical Forests

The closing date is 19 Dec 2012

ARCHER: CSE and Service Provision user requirement survey

25 Oct 2012
EPSRC, on behalf of the other research councils, has launched a survey to capture the user requirements for the CSE Support and Service Provision for the next national supercomputer ARCHER. ARCHER: CSE and Service Provision user requirement survey

The closing date is 5 Dec 2012

Council consideration of the proposal to merge BAS and NOC

24 Oct 2012
NERC Council will meet on 1 November 2012 to discuss the proposed merger of the British Antarctic Survey and the National Oceanography Centre, taking account of the outcome of the recent consultation. Council consideration of the proposal to merge BAS and NOC

NERC Council - Membership vacancies

23 Oct 2012
NERC Council are currently seeking applications from suitably qualified academics and experienced individuals from the industrial/commercial sector to fill a number of vacancies for part-time membership. NERC Council - Membership vacancies

The closing date is 19 Nov 2012

NERC success rates published

23 Oct 2012
The NERC organisational and departmental success rates for 2011-12 are now available. NERC success rates published

Combined pesticide exposure linked to impaired bumblebee colony success

22 Oct 2012
Individual bees and entire colonies are affected by exposure to a combination of pesticides, new research shows. Combined pesticide exposure linked to impaired bumblebee colony success

Ecosystem Services for Poverty Alleviation town meeting

19 Oct 2012
A research theme development workshop for the ESPA 2013 funding call will be taking place on 21 November to facilitate the framing of the research themes for the next Announcement of Opportunity. Ecosystem Services for Poverty Alleviation town meeting

The closing date is 26 Oct 2012

Announcement of Opportunity: Resource Recovery from Waste Call for Catalyst Grants

18 Oct 2012
NERC invites bids for Catalyst Grants to its Resource Recovery Waste programme to create the interdisciplinary community and scope the science areas for a future research grant call. Announcement of Opportunity: Resource Recovery from Waste Call for Catalyst Grants

The closing date is 12 Dec 2012

ESPA Annual Science Conference

16 Oct 2012
The UK's Ecosystem Services for Poverty Alleviation (ESPA) programme is holding its Annual Science Conference in London on 19-20 November 2012. ESPA Annual Science Conference

The closing date is 12 Nov 2012

New research and development will stimulate water industry innovation

15 Oct 2012
Grants totalling over £2.5m have been awarded for seven major collaborative research and development projects that aim to deliver innovation to help safeguard future water supplies. New research and development will stimulate water industry innovation

NERC Community Event

15 Oct 2012
NERC would like to invite the environmental science community and its stakeholders to participate in a community event in Manchester on 20 November 2012. NERC Community Event

The closing date is 9 Nov 2012

Watson to drive strategy at UK Energy Research Centre

12 Oct 2012
Professor Jim Watson has been appointed to the post of Research Director of the UK Energy Research Centre. Watson to drive strategy at UK Energy Research Centre

Draft UK Space Weather Strategy

11 Oct 2012
NERC have been working with STFC and other key stakeholders to develop a UK Space Weather Strategy which integrates research and operations. The draft strategy is now open for further comments. Draft UK Space Weather Strategy

NERC and Environment Agency Knowledge Exchange Policy Placement Fellowship

11 Oct 2012
Applications are invited for a Policy Placement Fellow to undertake work on integrated approaches to managing floods and droughts in a changing climate. NERC and Environment Agency Knowledge Exchange Policy Placement Fellowship

The closing date is 13 Nov 2012

Radioactivity and the Environment - Programme brokerage event

10 Oct 2012
A brokerage event was held to bring the community together to provide the background to this programme and its call. The agenda and presentations given at the workshop are available. Radioactivity and the Environment - Programme brokerage event

Announcement of Opportunity: Radioactivity and the Environment

8 Oct 2012
Outline proposals are invited for the RATE programme, which will address areas of research within the field of radioactivity and the environment that are currently underrepresented in the UK. Announcement of Opportunity: Radioactivity and the Environment

The closing date is 13 Nov 2012

Atlantic Ocean blamed for run of dismal UK summers

8 Oct 2012
This year's dismal UK summer could be part of a run of poor summers caused by a major warming of the North Atlantic Ocean that occurred back in the 1990s. Atlantic Ocean blamed for run of dismal UK summers

Announcement of Opportunity: International Opportunities Fund

4 Oct 2012
Proposals are invited for the 2012 Call of the NERC International Opportunities Fund. Announcement of Opportunity: International Opportunities Fund

The closing date is 27 Nov 2012

Announcement of Opportunity: Discipline Hopping Scheme

2 Oct 2012
The Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) invites applications for a Discipline Hopping Scheme to deliver part of the Omics research programme. Announcement of Opportunity: Discipline Hopping Scheme

The closing date is 27 Nov 2012

Research Grant and Fellowships Handbook update

1 Oct 2012
The NERC Research Grants and Fellowships Handbook has been updated (effective from 1 October 2012). Research Grant and Fellowships Handbook update

Announcement of Opportunity: BESS - Grants and Fellowships

1 Oct 2012
The Biodiversity and Ecosystem Service Sustainability (BESS) programme announces opportunities for funding for grants and fellowship projects which complement and extend the BESS research portfolio. Announcement of Opportunity: BESS - Grants and Fellowships

The closing date is 6 Dec 2012

NERC Defra High Level Policy Placement Fellowship

1 Oct 2012
NERC and Defra are seeking a senior member of the environmental science community to take on a key role linking NERC science with Defra policymaking. NERC Defra High Level Policy Placement Fellowship

The closing date is 20 Nov 2012

Marine Ecosystems research programme - Timetable for key programme activities

28 Sep 2012
NERC and Defra would like to announce the indicative timing of some key dates for the Marine Ecosystems research programme. Marine Ecosystems research programme - Timetable for key programme activities

Knowledge Transfer Partnership Targeted Call: Developing the Offshore Renewable Energy Supply Chain

24 Sep 2012
The Technology Strategy Board and NERC would like to announce a call for Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) in the field of offshore renewable energy. Knowledge Transfer Partnership Targeted Call: Developing the Offshore Renewable Energy Supply Chain

The closing date is 24 Apr 2013

Insight into snake venom evolution could aid drug discovery

18 Sep 2012
UK-led scientists have made a discovery about snake venom that could lead to the development of new drugs to treat a range of life-threatening conditions. Insight into snake venom evolution could aid drug discovery

UKERC Research Director job available

18 Sep 2012
The UK Energy Research Centre, funded by NERC, EPSRC and ESRC, is seeking a new Research Director. UKERC Research Director job available

The closing date is 28 Sep 2012

NBAF 2012-13 Pilot Project Grants Competition

14 Sep 2012
NERC is again providing funding for small pilot / development sequencing and microarray projects to be undertaken at the NBAF Edinburgh and Liverpool nodes. NBAF 2012-13 Pilot Project Grants Competition

The closing date is 5 Oct 2012

Announcement of Opportunity: December Standard research grants

11 Sep 2012
Applications are invited to the December 2012 Standard (including New Investigator) grant calls. The minimum that can be requested per complete proposal and per component is £65,000 (100% fEC). Announcement of Opportunity: December Standard research grants

The closing date is 4 Dec 2012

Consultation on proposal to merge BAS and NOC

11 Sep 2012
NERC is undertaking a consultation exercise on a proposal to merge two of its centres: the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) and the National Oceanography Centre (NOC). Consultation on proposal to merge BAS and NOC

The closing date is 10 Oct 2012

Rural Economy Land Use final report published

7 Sep 2012
The Rural Economy Land Use (RELU) programme has now finished. The final report, including the programme's aims, findings and outputs is now available. Rural Economy Land Use final report published

UK Droughts and Water Scarcity - Town meeting

6 Sep 2012
Applications are invited to attend a 'town meeting' which will include short plenary sessions, presentation of the draft announcement of opportunity for discussion, and sessions to facilitate cross-disciplinary discussions and networking. UK Droughts and Water Scarcity - Town meeting

The closing date is 28 Sep 2012

Radioactivity and the Environment - Programme brokerage event

3 Sep 2012
NERC would like to invite attendance at the RATE programme brokerage event in Bristol on Monday 8 October 2012. Radioactivity and the Environment - Programme brokerage event

The closing date is 25 Sep 2012

UK scientists to revolutionise lake research in £2.5m global project

1 Sep 2012
GloboLakes consortium will create the world's first satellite-based global lake surveillance system, to monitor how lakes and reservoirs are being affected by environmental change. UK scientists to revolutionise lake research in £2.5m global project

Nomination and selection for SISB

30 Aug 2012
NERC is inviting applications to its key advisory board, the Science & Innovation Strategy Board (SISB). Nomination and selection for SISB

The closing date is 9 Oct 2012

Announcement of Opportunity: Follow-on Fund

23 Aug 2012
Applications are invited to the October 2012 round of the Follow-on Fund. Announcement of Opportunity: Follow-on Fund

The closing date is 3 Oct 2012

Royal Society Industry Fellowships

21 Aug 2012
The Royal Society is inviting applications to its Industry Fellowship scheme. Royal Society Industry Fellowships

The closing date is 5 Oct 2012

Announcement of Opportunity: Flooding from Intense Rainfall

20 Aug 2012
NERC is inviting research proposals to its Flooding from Intense Rainfall research programme. This is a five-year £5·2m research programme in collaboration with the Met Office and the Environment Agency. Announcement of Opportunity: Flooding from Intense Rainfall

The closing date is 31 Oct 2012

Food prices and waste are hot topics of public survey

20 Aug 2012
Research conducted for the Global Food Security Programme has shown that many people believe that: 'food security is not an issue that affects me rather it's more a problem for people in developing countries' Food prices and waste are hot topics of public survey

Announcement of Opportunity: Analytical Science and Technology - Studentships

20 Aug 2012
NERC and ACTF invite applications for the fourth funding round of the co-funded Analytical Science and Technology Studentships programme. Announcement of Opportunity: Analytical Science and Technology - Studentships

The closing date is 11 Oct 2012

Announcement of Opportunity - LWEC Health Fellow

15 Aug 2012
Living With Environmental Change (LWEC) Partners seek to appoint a fellow to lead on knowledge exchange in the area of health, extreme weather events and adaptation to climate change. Announcement of Opportunity - LWEC Health Fellow

The closing date is 25 Sep 2012

NCAS bursaries available

15 Aug 2012
NCAS is proud to announce that there are a small number of bursaries available to help fund PhD students to attend the 2013 European Research Course on Atmospheres (ERCA). NCAS bursaries available

The closing date is 30 Sep 2012

Drop-in sessions for NERC Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTP) competition 2012.

10 Aug 2012
We are offering potential DTP applicants the opportunity to meet in private with NERC staff to discuss the new competition. Drop-in sessions for NERC Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTP) competition 2012.

The closing date is 11 Sep 2012

Update on the DTP competition

10 Aug 2012
We have published an update on the DTP competition which includes a brief guide to the changes we have made and an outline of what we are looking for in DTPs. Update on the DTP competition

Announcement of Opportunity: Collaboration with business, policy and the third sector in marine renewable energy

10 Aug 2012
NERC has launched a call for internships, inviting existing researchers to apply for projects of up to four months, based in businesses, policy or third sector organisations Announcement of Opportunity: Collaboration with business, policy and the third sector in marine renewable energy

2012 Environment YES competition - reminder

9 Aug 2012
NERC invite applications for the 2012 Environment YES competition workshop. 2012 Environment YES competition - reminder

Wet weather could have delivered clean Olympic Games

9 Aug 2012
The UK's appalling summer weather could have had an unexpected benefit for Olympic athletes and spectators. Wet weather could have delivered clean Olympic Games

Announcement of Opportunity - NERC Independent Research Fellowship

6 Aug 2012
Applications are invited to the NERC Independent Research Fellowship scheme. This replaces the previous Postdoctoral and Advanced Fellowship schemes. Announcement of Opportunity - NERC Independent Research Fellowship

The closing date is 1 Nov 2012

NERC Citations Study 2012

6 Aug 2012
More than a fifth of the total UK output in environmental sciences is supported by NERC according to a new study of research papers citations. NERC Citations Study 2012

Announcement of Opportunity - NERC CASE Studentships

3 Aug 2012
Applications are invited to the NERC CASE Studentship scheme, which promotes collaboration between the research community and the end-users of research. Announcement of Opportunity - NERC CASE Studentships

Changes to Project Studentships

1 Aug 2012
As part of the wider changes to our postgraduate training portfolio, NERC today announces changes to project studentships. Changes to Project Studentships

New Director for NERC Centre for Ecology and Hydrology

26 Jul 2012
Professor Mark Bailey takes up the role from 1 August 2012. New Director for NERC Centre for Ecology and Hydrology

Announcement of Opportunity for use of the ARSF in the 2013 flying season

24 Jul 2012
Eligible persons wishing to use the Airborne Research and Survey Facility in the 2013 Flying Season are invited to submit detailed proposals, including a supporting scientific case. Announcement of Opportunity for use of the ARSF in the 2013 flying season

The closing date is 5 Oct 2012

GPS backpacks reveal sheep flocking strategy

24 Jul 2012
UK researchers have shown for the first time that instead of fleeing randomly when faced with danger, sheep head straight for the centre of the flock. GPS backpacks reveal sheep flocking strategy

Marks and Spencer NERC Knowledge Exchange Fellow

17 Jul 2012
NERC, in partnership with Marks and Spencer, is looking to recruit a Knowledge Exchange Fellow tasked with matching their sustainable business needs with the UK science base. Marks and Spencer NERC Knowledge Exchange Fellow

The closing date is 28 Sep 2012

NERC Annual Report published

12 Jul 2012
The NERC Annual Report & Accounts 2011-12 are now available. NERC Annual Report published

Announcement of Opportunity: Omics - Advisory and Implementation Group

11 Jul 2012
NERC invites applications from individuals interested in joining the Advisory and Implementation Group (AIG) for the Omics research programme. Announcement of Opportunity: Omics - Advisory and Implementation Group

The closing date is 31 Jul 2012

Flying research laboratory to appear at Royal International Air Tattoo

6 Jul 2012
The NERC / Met Office Atmospheric Research Aircraft makes its first ever appearance at the Royal International Air Tattoo this weekend. Flying research laboratory to appear at Royal International Air Tattoo

Antarctic Logistic Support - 4 December 2012 standard grant round

5 Jul 2012
The call is open for 'Preliminary Request for Antarctic Logistic Support' forms to be submitted by all applicants requesting BAS Antarctic Logistics Support. Antarctic Logistic Support - 4 December 2012 standard grant round

The closing date is 4 Sep 2012

Researchers and communities at risk join forces in volcano study

2 Jul 2012
People living in the shadow of six potentially active volcanoes will take part in a £3m project to explore better ways to forecast and cope with future eruptions. Researchers and communities at risk join forces in volcano study

Opportunities for UK business that protect and value nature's services

28 Jun 2012
Twelve promising opportunities for UK business to help protect and value nature's services were identified in a report published yesterday. Opportunities for UK business that protect and value nature's services

International space weather agreement

28 Jun 2012
The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the UK Government Office for Science have agreed to strengthen collaborative efforts to protect critical infrastructure from the impacts of space weather. International space weather agreement

UK IODP Conference 2012

27 Jun 2012
Online registration is now open for the UK IODP 2012 Conference. UK IODP Conference 2012

The closing date is 12 Aug 2012

Radioactivity and the Environment Expert Group report for comment

27 Jun 2012
The RATE Expert Group met on the 2 and 3 May, a report was produced and we are keen to hear the views of the widest possible audience. Radioactivity and the Environment Expert Group report for comment

The closing date is 22 Jul 2012

UK environment improves as chemical climate responds to air pollution policies

20 Jun 2012
A review published today has found that the chemical climate of the UK has changed dramatically over the last 30 years, and continues to change as a consequence of UK and European policies to solve air pollution problems. UK environment improves as chemical climate responds to air pollution policies

Queen's Birthday Honours

20 Jun 2012
NERC congratulates Colin Drummond, Chair of the Living With Environmental Change (LWEC) Business Advisory Board. Queen's Birthday Honours

£9.6m joint UK-Brazilian initiative to investigate effect of tropical forest degradation

19 Jun 2012
NERC and FAPESP today announce a major £9.6m investment to investigate how changes to tropical forests affect biodiversity, ecosystem services and the climate. £9.6m joint UK-Brazilian initiative to investigate effect of tropical forest degradation

Expansion of forests in the European Arctic could result in the release of carbon dioxide

18 Jun 2012
Carbon stored in Arctic tundra could be released into the atmosphere by new trees growing in the warmer region, exacerbating climate change, scientists have revealed. Expansion of forests in the European Arctic could result in the release of carbon dioxide

The app that puts soil on the map

15 Jun 2012
Scientists have produced a new free map app of the soils of Great Britain. The mySoil app will be useful to farmers and keen gardeners who can upload information about the soil where they live. The app that puts soil on the map

NERC considers combined management of polar and marine science

7 Jun 2012
NERC is considering a merger of the scientific and logistics management of marine and polar science delivered through its National Oceanography Centre and British Antarctic Survey. NERC considers combined management of polar and marine science

Strengthening Peer Review College Membership

6 Jun 2012
In future, Principal Investigators of active NERC grants will, as a condition of funding, be required to serve as a member of the NERC Peer Review College, if invited to do so. Strengthening Peer Review College Membership

Bird's head colour determines its personality

6 Jun 2012
UK researchers have shown that highly sociable Australian birds, called Gouldian finches, have different personalities according to the colour of their heads. Bird's head colour determines its personality

Arctic study of ocean acidification impacts

31 May 2012
Scientists will set sail tomorrow aboard the RRS James Clark Ross for the largest ever study of changing carbon dioxide levels in polar seas. Arctic study of ocean acidification impacts

Mars missions may learn from meteor Down Under

31 May 2012
A discovery about the make-up of the atmosphere of Mars could help inform future missions searching for life there. Mars missions may learn from meteor Down Under

NERC Independent Research Fellowships

29 May 2012
NERC Council has decided to streamline the provision of responsive mode Fellowships into a single scheme designed to develop scientific leadership among the most promising early-career environmental scientists. NERC Independent Research Fellowships

New Research Grants and Fellowships Handbook

29 May 2012
The terms and conditions and other information for all fEC Postdoctoral, Advanced and Independent Research Fellowships are now covered by the NERC Research Grants and Fellowships Handbook. New Research Grants and Fellowships Handbook

Policy internships for NERC funded PhD students

24 May 2012
Applications are invited for the 2012-13 NERC PhD policy internship scheme, for students to spend three months working in a policy research office. Policy internships for NERC funded PhD students

The closing date is 17 Jul 2012

3D model reveals how ancient creature got around

24 May 2012
An ancient four-limbed creature that's thought to be the first ever to walk on land couldn't actually walk at all, researchers have discovered. 3D model reveals how ancient creature got around

NERC-sponsored garden wins Gold at Chelsea

22 May 2012
The University of Leeds has scooped Gold at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show today with a garden based on ecosystem services research. NERC-sponsored garden wins Gold at Chelsea

NERC welcomes new Chief Scientific Adviser appointment

22 May 2012
Professor Louise Heathwaite is appointed to the Scottish Government as Chief Scientific Adviser, Rural and Environment. NERC welcomes new Chief Scientific Adviser appointment

NERC Training Advisory Group (TAG) Chair and Members

21 May 2012
Professor Jane Francis has been announced as the first chair of the new NERC Training Advisory Group (TAG). She starts this role on 22 May 2012. NERC Training Advisory Group (TAG) Chair and Members

Joint Weather and Climate Research Programme draft strategy - Request for feedback

21 May 2012
NERC and the Met Office would like to give the community the opportunity to provide feedback on draft strategies for the Joint Weather and Climate Research Programme. Joint Weather and Climate Research Programme draft strategy - Request for feedback

The closing date is 30 Jun 2012

Follow-on Fund

18 May 2012
NERC is pausing the Follow-on Fund during the summer of 2012. This means the round with a closing date of 6 June will no longer be held. The funding situation will be reviewed later in the year. Follow-on Fund

Environment and Health Science Coordinator appointed

18 May 2012
Dr David Hutchinson, Environment Facilitator at the University of Portsmouth, has been appointed as the Environment and Health Science Coordinator for both the EEHI and ESEI programmes. Environment and Health Science Coordinator appointed

Policy placement secondment opportunity: NERC and Environment Agency

17 May 2012
Applications are invited for a nine-month policy placement secondment opportunity based in the Environment Agency in Bristol to work on the use of transient and steady state climate change information to improve decision-making for climate change adaptation. Policy placement secondment opportunity: NERC and Environment Agency

The closing date is 12 Jun 2012

Scientists to study risks of ocean acidification to Scotland's corals

15 May 2012
Scientists set off on a month-long research voyage in the waters around Scotland using the latest robotic technology to study the Mingulay cold-water coral reefs. Scientists to study risks of ocean acidification to Scotland's corals

UK report could pave the way for producing sustainable biofuels

14 May 2012
With the increasing appetite for 'green' energy technologies there are massive opportunities ahead for the UK in producing algal biofuels and other algae products. UK report could pave the way for producing sustainable biofuels

Researchers fly into the heart of Britain's violent storms

10 May 2012
Scientists have been flying through the turbulent storms being experienced in the UK at present to try and understand what causes such extremely stormy weather. Researchers fly into the heart of Britain's violent storms

Announcement of Opportunity: Collaboration with business and the third sector in ecosystem services

4 May 2012
The Natural Environment Research Council has launched a call for internships, inviting existing researchers to apply for projects of between one and six months, based in businesses and third sector organisations. Announcement of Opportunity: Collaboration with business and the third sector in ecosystem services

The closing date is 2 Jul 2012

Announcement of Opportunity - Programme Advisory Group

3 May 2012
NERC is inviting applications from individuals interested in joining the Programme Advisory Group (PAG) for the Resource Recovery from Waste: Challenges for the health of the environment programme. Announcement of Opportunity - Programme Advisory Group

The closing date is 23 May 2012

Marks and Spencer NERC Knowledge Exchange Fellow

1 May 2012
NERC, in partnership with Marks and Spencer, is looking to recruit a Knowledge Exchange Fellow tasked with matching their sustainable business needs with the UK science base. Marks and Spencer NERC Knowledge Exchange Fellow

The closing date is 1 Jun 2012

NERC congratulates Defra's new Chief Scientist

1 May 2012
Professor Ian Boyd has been associated with NERC for many years and is currently Director of the Sea Mammal Research Unit, one of NERC's partner institutes. NERC congratulates Defra's new Chief Scientist

Policy placement secondment opportunity: Resource Recovery From Waste and WReSCE

25 Apr 2012
Applications are invited for a new policy placement secondment opportunity based in Defra to work with the NERC Resource Recovery From Waste research programme and the collaborative Waste, Resources and Sustainable Consumption Evidence programme. Policy placement secondment opportunity: Resource Recovery From Waste and WReSCE

The closing date is 21 May 2012

Announcement of Opportunity: Belmont Forum and G8HORCs International Opportunities Fund

18 Apr 2012
Proposals are invited to this joint funding call of approximately 20m Euros between the Belmont Forum and G8 Heads of Research Councils (G8HORCs). Announcement of Opportunity: Belmont Forum and G8HORCs International Opportunities Fund

The closing date is 20 Jul 2012

UK IODP Student Conference 2012

17 Apr 2012
Online registration is now open for the UK IODP 2012 Student Conference. UK IODP Student Conference 2012

The closing date is 27 Jun 2012

Announcement of Opportunity: BESS - Interdisciplinary studentships

13 Apr 2012
The Biodiversity and Ecosystem Service Sustainability (BESS) programme is inviting applications for five fully funded interdisciplinary PhD studentships. Announcement of Opportunity: BESS - Interdisciplinary studentships

The closing date is 25 May 2012

Standard Grant maximum funding limit

12 Apr 2012
A process to request exceptional permission for a proposal to exceed the standard grant funding limit of £1.2m has been introduced. Standard Grant maximum funding limit

Earthquake hits northern Sumatra

11 Apr 2012
An earthquake of 8·7 magnitude has once again rocked northern Sumatra, but without the devastation that the region suffered in 2004. Earthquake hits northern Sumatra

New Chairman for NERC's Science and Innovation Strategy Board

4 Apr 2012
Professor Philip England from the University of Oxford stepped into the role on 1 April 2012. New Chairman for NERC's Science and Innovation Strategy Board

Belmont Forum and G8HORCs International Opportunities Fund

3 Apr 2012
The Belmont Forum and G8HORCs International Opportunities Fund will be officially opened and announced to the community on 15 April 2012. Belmont Forum and G8HORCs International Opportunities Fund

UK National Ecosystem Assessment (UK NEA) research opportunity

20 Mar 2012
The UK NEA is inviting suitably experienced individuals from a variety of disciplines and organisations to register an expression of interest for involvement in the research component of the UK NEA follow-on phase. UK National Ecosystem Assessment (UK NEA) research opportunity

The closing date is 4 Apr 2012

Postgraduate skills gaps in the environmental sciences sector

14 Mar 2012
NERC is seeking input to a review of postgraduate skills gaps in the environmental sciences sector. Postgraduate skills gaps in the environmental sciences sector

The closing date is 23 Apr 2012

Science Minister returns from fact-finding visit to Antarctica

5 Mar 2012
Hear directly from David Willetts about his experiences whilst visiting the British Antarctic Survey's Rothera base. Science Minister returns from fact-finding visit to Antarctica

Announcement of Opportunity : ESPA 2012 Grants

5 Mar 2012
The ESPA Programme Executive Board invites Expressions of Interest (EOI) to attend a Grant Development Workshop on 2-4 July 2012. Announcement of Opportunity : ESPA 2012 Grants

The closing date is 2 Apr 2012

UK IODP Conference 2012

1 Mar 2012
The national UK IODP Conference will be held in Oxford on 12 September 2012 to celebrate scientific achievements and look forward beyond 2013. UK IODP Conference 2012

UK IODP Student Conference 2012

1 Mar 2012
This interactive workshop for early-career scientists to explore ocean drilling related research ideas will be held on 9-12 September 2012. UK IODP Student Conference 2012

Welsh Language Scheme consultation

27 Feb 2012
Research Councils UK have issued a draft Welsh Language Scheme for public consultation, in accordance with the Welsh Language Act 1993. Welsh Language Scheme consultation

The closing date is 1 May 2012

ESPA Directorate Questionnaire response

23 Feb 2012
Findings of the recent review of the applications process for ESPA funding are now published on the ESPA website. ESPA Directorate Questionnaire response

Radioactivity and the Environment Expert Group

16 Feb 2012
Membership of the Expert Group to advise on the scope of the Radioactivity and the Environment research programme has been confirmed. Radioactivity and the Environment Expert Group

Radioactivity and the Environment programme timetable

16 Feb 2012
An outline timetable for the Radioactivity and the Environment research programme is now available. Radioactivity and the Environment programme timetable

Collaborative Gearing Scheme

16 Feb 2012
The call is open for applications to the Collaborative Gearing Scheme, for projects that request Antarctic fieldwork during the 2012-13 season. Collaborative Gearing Scheme

The closing date is 30 Mar 2012

Announcement of Opportunity: ESPA 2012 Grants

15 Feb 2012
The ESPA Programme Executive Board will soon release details of the latest funding call to be launched under the ESPA Programme. Announcement of Opportunity: ESPA 2012 Grants

Antarctic Logistic Support - July 2012 grant round

15 Feb 2012
The call is open for 'Preliminary Request for Antarctic Logistic Support' forms to be submitted by all applicants requesting BAS Antarctic Logistics Support. Antarctic Logistic Support - July 2012 grant round

The closing date is 2 Apr 2012

NERC's Arctic research base

14 Feb 2012
Applications are being accepted to access the NERC Arctic research station during the 2012 summer season. NERC's Arctic research base

The closing date is 31 Mar 2012

UK Antarctic Science meeting 2012

13 Feb 2012
The British Antarctic Survey is organising a UK Antarctic Science meeting, to be held in Cambridge on 12-14 September 2012. UK Antarctic Science meeting 2012

Minister launches next generation of supercomputers for UK researchers

13 Feb 2012
The next stage of development of two giant computers, HECToR and BlueGene/Q, will allow complex computer simulations across a range of scientific disciplines. Minister launches next generation of supercomputers for UK researchers

NERC's new approach to investments in postgraduate training.

9 Feb 2012
NERC Council has agreed a new strategic approach to supporting postgraduate training. NERC's new approach to investments in postgraduate training.

Ocean Acidification annual science meeting 2012

3 Feb 2012
The second UK Ocean Acidification Research Programme annual science meeting will be taking place at the University of Exeter on 16-18 April 2012. Ocean Acidification annual science meeting 2012

The closing date is 16 Mar 2012

New versions of the NERC Research Grants Handbook and Change Log are now available

30 Jan 2012
There is a new version of the NERC Research Grants Handbook available. This edition gives details of the new NERC Large grant scheme and details changes to the Urgency grant scheme. New versions of the NERC Research Grants Handbook and Change Log are now available

Peer Review College Recruitment Reminder - final week for the submission of nominations

23 Jan 2012
We are looking for members with all types of environmental science expertise, including those from the public and private sector user communities, to be involved in the peer review of proposals. Peer Review College Recruitment Reminder - final week for the submission of nominations

The closing date is 27 Jan 2012

Huge pool of Arctic fresh water could cool Europe

23 Jan 2012
British scientists have discovered an enormous dome of fresh water in the western Arctic Ocean, which could cool Europe if the wind changes direction. Huge pool of Arctic fresh water could cool Europe

NERC responsive research (algorithm) studentship allocation

20 Jan 2012
240 studentships have been allocated via the NERC studentship algorithm for students to start in October 2012. NERC responsive research (algorithm) studentship allocation

Demand management measures

20 Jan 2012
NERC introduces demand management measures for Responsive Mode funding schemes. Demand management measures

Policy placement secondment opportunity: Defra

19 Jan 2012
Applications are invited for a new policy placement secondment opportunity to be based within Defra's Atmospheric and Local Environment (ALE) programme. Policy placement secondment opportunity: Defra

The closing date is 8 Feb 2012

Molecular Spectroscopy Facility - Withdrawal of NERC national capability funding

12 Jan 2012
As part the NERC national capability (NC) prioritisation exercise, Council have agreed to withdraw NC funding for the MSF. Consequently, the MSF will no longer be accepting applications for access as a NERC block-funded facility. Molecular Spectroscopy Facility - Withdrawal of NERC national capability funding

Other news channels

All news is available through our RSS feeds.

External links

Planet Earth Online