
In his foreword to the NCUB's latest report, Science Minister Chris Skidmore said the agility with which our universities and innovative businesses cross-pollinate will be key to achieving the UK's R&D investment ambition of 2.4 per cent of national income by 2027. The Industrial Strategy and associated Challenge Fund sets out that through investment in research, development and innovation, the UK will be able to address the major industrial and societal challenges of today, while putting the UK in the best position to take advantage of future market opportunities.
These big ambitions just got a whole lot simpler through the latest release of konfer - the NCUB's digital match-maker for academics and businesses.
konfer - what's new?
Using latest machine learning and natural language processing technologies, this release gives even easier access to the wealth of research, experts, equipment and funding across 23 industry sectors in the UK.
Over 1 million research papers, expert profiles and other data assets now incorporate topic and concept analysis, enabling unique search and discovery capabilities. And, an enhanced user experience facilitates konfer’s expanded capability connecting industry and academia.
Single access point
The idea behind konfer is simple - a single access point to the world of UK academic research. Through konfer you can: find experts; explore research; access grant funding opportunities; use university equipment and facilities; connect to universities and experts with a single click and publish collaboration opportunities.
Getting started
If you’re new to konfer and need help getting started there’s a knowledge bank to get you going. Whether you need help understanding the resources that are available on konfer or how to get the best from our search advisor, browse our detailed help section for answers or get in touch.
Developed, operated and managed by the National Centre of Universities and Business (NCUB) in partnership with Research England and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) konfer is free to use.
Further features will be implemented throughout 2019, with a view to maximising engagement between universities and business, who together will build a more innovative, productive and inclusive future for the UK.