University of Manchester seeks alternative funding after UKRI cuts threaten Jodrell Bank
What happened
The University of Manchester is seeking alternative funding to maintain scientific work at Jodrell Bank Observatory after UK Research and Innovation funding was not restored. The government confirmed that the e-MERLIN network at Jodrell Bank will still lose funding in 2028. Sarah Sharples, the university’s dean of science and engineering, stated the university is pursuing a constellation approach to secure new financial sources.
Why it matters
The loss of funding jeopardizes the operational status of the Jodrell Bank Observatory, raising concerns that the site may transition from a functioning scientific facility to a heritage site. Sarah Sharples noted that some small government funding is still required to recognize the value of preserving the facility.
Who's involved
- University of ManchesterUniversity seeking alternative funding to preserve scientific research.
- UK Research and InnovationResearch funding body that confirmed the loss of funding.
- Sarah SharplesDean of Science at the University of Manchester, commenting on the funding situation.
- Jodrell Bank ObservatoryAstronomical observatory whose operational status is threatened by funding cuts.
- Andy BurnhamPolitician whose pledge to save the observatory has not relieved uncertainty.
Keep exploring
The entities involved
-
University of Manchester
public research university in Manchester, England, United Kingdom
-
UK Research and Innovation
research funding body for the United Kingdom
-
Sarah Sharples
professor of Human Factors of the University of Nottingham
Nothing else this week.