Complex Systems
Technology, innovation and globalisation have transformed the world in we live in. The systems we have created to supply the food we eat, the clothes we wear and the homes we live in are truly marvellous and complex; however, these systems are sometimes fragile, and can be a source of pollution.
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The role of our Complex Systems team is to explore further solutions to mitigate their effects, supporting the development of a circular economy.
The team focuses on mission-oriented innovation and embraces a systems thinking approach, focusing on:
– Space applications and geospatial data to support UK’s Net Zero ambitions
– Advanced Robotics to increase food quality and security
– Intelligent Systems to support the global effort to clean and recycle plastics
– Ethical AI to increase business productivity, advanced Security systems to keep families safe at work, rest or play
– Industrial Maths to help reduce food waste and food poverty.
Click here to see open funding opportunities including the above sectors.
Our current focus in this area
Related Opportunities
Innovate UK Growth Catalyst December 2025
Opens: 10/12/2025 Closes: 03/02/2026
Grant funding for late-stage R&D projects of up to £2m in size, subject to aligned private investment through Innovate UK’s proven Investor Partnerships funding model. Opening soon.
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HMGCC Co-Creation Challenge: Antenna-boosting materials
Opens: 15/12/2025 Closes: 29/01/2026
Up to £60,000 each for tech to develop dielectric materials enabling ultrawideband antennas with frequency agility.
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HMGCC Co-Creation Challenge - Sandpit event to explore wearable technologies
Opens: 01/12/2025 Closes: 15/01/2026
HMGCC is seeking innovative wearable technology solutions tailored to national security and defence.
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Develop a prototype leak testing solution for nuclear transport packages
Opens: 02/12/2025 Closes: 02/01/2026
The challenge is seeking a leak testing solution for nuclear transport packages that is portable, easy to use, reliable, and capable of meeting a range of requirements across a range of package sizes and environments.
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Frontier AI ICURe Discover - January 2026
Opens: 20/11/2025 Closes: 10/12/2025
Frontier AI ICURe Discover is a part-time online market exploration programme for researchers, technicians and research students, with up to £2,500 support for market discovery activities.
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Women in Innovation Awards 2025/26
Opens: 26/11/2025 Closes: 04/02/2026
Women founders or co-founders of UK registered SMEs can apply for a package of support that includes a grant of up to £75,000 and bespoke business support, to further their ambitious growth plans.
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