The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology has published their areas of research interest for 2024 on their webpages (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/department-for-science-innovation-and-technology-areas-of-research-interest/dsit-areas-of-research-interest-2024). 

We have summarised the information below (using Gemini) and would encourage you to visit the original website for a more in depth look at their priority areas.

Briefing Note: DSIT Areas of Research Interest 2024

Department: Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT)

Published: 2024

Purpose: This briefing note outlines the key areas of research interest for the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) as outlined in their 2024 publication.

Background:

  • DSIT was established in 2023 to deliver on the UK government’s ambition to make the UK a global leader in science, technology, and innovation.
  • The department aims to achieve this by:
    • Backing UK science, technology, and innovation
    • Tackling global challenges through international influence
    • Improving lives by championing responsible innovation

DSIT’s Research Interests:

  • Digital Technologies and Telecoms Group (DTG):
    • Focuses on delivering the government’s digital and technology agenda.
    • Specific interests include:
      • Artificial intelligence (AI)
      • Digital infrastructure
  • Science Innovation and Growth Group (SIG):
    • Supports the government’s efforts to promote science, technology, and business growth across the economy.

Key Areas of Research Interest (across both groups):

  • AI:
    • Global risks and mitigation strategies
    • Economic and societal impact
    • Use in public services

Digital infrastructure:

  • Factors influencing decisions to include premises in fiber optic network build plans
  • Efficiency of different methods for delivering fiber optic networks
  • Impact of extreme weather events on reliability

Additional areas of interest:

  • Environmental impact of digital technologies
  • Potential of future technologies
  • Using data to inform decision-making

Further details on DSIT’s Research Interests:

  • DTG also has an interest in research on:
    • The ethical implications of AI
    • The skills and workforce needed for a digital future
    • The role of digital technologies in public service delivery
  • SIG is interested in research on:
    • The future of work
    • Clean growth technologies
    • Medical technologies

Conclusion:

DSIT is committed to supporting research that will help the UK become a global leader in science, technology, and innovation. The department encourages researchers to submit proposals that align with its research interests and contribute to its policy goals.