Opportunity: NERC’s Science and Innovation Strategy Board (SISB, c/d 8 June 2009

NERC, the Natural Environment Research Council is inviting self-nominated applications for membership of its Science and Innovation Strategy Board from across the NERC science domain. The SISB is the key source of advice to NERC on science and innovation matters. For the 2009 round, applications from those with expertise in physics, atmospheric sciences, geo- and palaeochemistry, marine biogeochemistry, geophysics, ecology, solar and terrestrial physics or a relevant business sector background would be particularly welcome. All applications will be considered on merit. Deadline for applications, which should be made via the NERC website: 8 June 2009.

Opportunity: NERC Peer Review College, c/d 9 January 2009

NERC, the UK Government funding adgency for the natural and environmental sciences, is inviting nominations for membership to its affiliate Peer Review College to help review funding proposals. ‘Affiliate’ membership will be of interest to those individuals who use the results of research, commission or oversee research activities or undertake policy-making, business or regulatory activities. Affiliate members provide an important user perspective on the value and benefits of knowledge exchange (KE) activities, the aim of which is to encourage collaboration and interaction between research organisations and those who make use of research outcomes. Affiliate members will also have a key role in assessing the newly introduced KE plans for responsive mode applications. The closing date for nominations is 9 January 2009. Further information on the Peer Review College, and a nomination form, is on the NERC website.

Funding: NERC Knowledge Transfer Call, c/d 4 March 2008

NERC is inviting applications for the first round of the 2008 Knowledge Transfer Call, with a closing date of 4 March (4pm). The KT Call helps maximise the transfer of knowledge, people, skills and expertise between the UK's research base and the user community (public and private sector organisations). The Call is flexible, to cater for the many types of knowledge flow. The next round will have a closing date of 5 August. The KT Call is open to applicants based in UK Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), NERC Research and Collaborative Centres, and Independent Research Organisations (IROs) approved by NERC. Applications should fall within the NERC science remit. Examples of networks which have been funded through the Knowledge Transfer Call, to exchange ideas and knowledge between the science and user communities are on the NERC website.