The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council has invested £444 million into funding centres for doctoral training.

These centres will ensure the next generation of doctoral level students are equipped to tackle research and innovation challenges across the engineering and physical sciences landscape, including subjects such as quantum engineering, Medical Imaging and Offshore Renewables.

More than 70 new CDTs will be announced at a launch event held at the London Stock Exchange. The centres will be funded through the EPSRC, which is part of the UK Research and Innovation group and has allocated £444 million and a further £2.2 million from The Natural Environment Research Council.

Science and innovation minister Chris Skidmore said: “As we explore new research to boost our economy with an increase of over £7 billion invested in R&D over five years to 2021/2022 – the highest increase for over 40 years – we will need skilled people to turn ideas into inventions that can have a positive impact on our daily lives.

“The centres for doctoral training at universities across the country will offer the next generation of PHD students the ability to get ahead of the curve. In addition, this has resulted in nearly £400 million being leveraged from industry partners. This is our modern industrial strategy in action, ensuring all corners of the UK thrive with the skills they need for the jobs of tomorrow."

“As Science Minister, I’m delighted we’re making this massive investment in postgraduate students as part of our increased investment in R&D.”

UKRI’s Chief Executive, Professor Sir Mark Walport said: “Highly talented people are required to tackle key global challenges such as sustainable energy and cyber security, and provide leadership across industries and our public services.

“Centres for Doctoral Training provide them with the support, tools and training they need to succeed, and the involvement of 1,400 project partners underlines how much industry and the charity sector value this approach.”