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Knowledge Exchange systematic reviews

Construction

Introduction

NERC is pleased to welcome applications to conduct Knowledge Exchange systematic reviews to characterise the evidence base, better understand existing data and highlight trends and gaps in our knowledge on the possible impacts of environmental changes on the construction industry.

Living with Environmental Change logoThis announcement is part of the Living with Environmental Change initiative. Systematic reviews will be undertaken according to guidelines adopted by the Collaboration for Environmental Evidence (CEE) and will be facilitated by the Centre for Evidence-Based Conservation (CEBC). Completed reviews and associated data will be submitted to the CEE library of systematic reviews.

Systematic reviews will be based on three questions which relate to how environmental change could impact on the construction industry:

  1. What is the impact of increasing changes in the water table on structural stability of buildings?
  2. What is the impact of increasing change in wind patterns on building design and operations?
  3. What is the impact of climate and extreme events on local-scale flood risk for individual developments?

Applicants wishing to apply to undertake systematic reviews for one, two or all three of these questions should follow the guidelines in the full Announcement of Opportunity document below.

Announcement of Opportunity (47KB)

Eligibility

This call is open to UK researchers eligible for NERC directed funding. NERC's funding pages can provide further guidance with respect to eligibility for UK applicants.

Requirements

Guidelines for systematic reviews can be found on the CEE website.

Systematic reviews will be carried out in two stages:

  1. a scoping study that will offer the opportunity to look at the scientific literature and public reports published within areas relating to a specific question, and
  2. a full systematic review. Advice and assistance will be available from the Centre for Evidence-Based Conservation.

Awards

Applications may be for up to £30,000 for each review. Reviews will be based on one of three specific questions which relate to how environmental change could impact on the construction industry. It is expected that £7,000 to £10,000 would be allocated for a scoping study, with the remainder of the funds requested being set aside for a full systematic review. The final product of the review will be a written report to be submitted within one month of the end date to NERC and the CEE website.

It is anticipated that awards will be conducted from a period of 1 November 2009 or earlier. The scoping study should be undertaken between 1 November 2009 and 4 January 2010, with full systematic reviews to take place in the first half of 2010.

Assessment procedure

The final choice of successful applicants will be made by NERC. Applicants will be assessed to ensure their knowledge is sufficient to undertake the review, that the application is cost effective and there is a clear working timetable to meet review timeline.

How to apply

The closing date for applications is 16:00 on 23 September 2009 via the application form below. Applications should be sent via email to Stephen Smith.

Application form (88KB)

For further information please contact Stephen Smith.