Introduction
Extending our knowledge of design through research
Design is central to many of the disciplines and subjects that come under the remit of arts and humanities. From architecture to engineering and applied arts through to fashion, computing and communications, it is an integral element of our lives.
Background
As design requires a collaboration of minds and skills, this programme is a joint initiative between the AHRC and Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). By coming together in this way, researchers funded by both research councils will be able to work collaboratively and foster understanding of the different perspectives of design research.
The Programme
The programme aims to support leading-edge design research which will explore new modes of design thinking suitable for the challenges of desiging for the 21st Century society. It is in two phases. The first phase set up cross-sector and cross-disciplinary networking activities through the establishment of research clusters, whilst the second funded interdisciplinary research projects.
Its objectives incude:
- promoting the formation of new communities and networks of design researchers, practitioners and end-users of design
- building shared understanding of theoretical concepts, cultures, languages and methods within different design communities
- stimulating new ways of design thining that will meet the challenges of designing for the 21st Century Society
- supporting leading edge research that is self-reflective, socially aware, economically enterprising and internationally significant.
Programme Contacts
Enquires about the scholarly content of the Designing for the 21st Century Programme, its aims, objectives and themes should be directed to:
Professor Tom Inns, Programme Director, 01382 348929
Enquiries about changes to awards or the monitoring procedure should be directed to one of the AHRC Officers:
Anne Sofield, Programme Manager, 0117 987 6631
Find out more
Full details about the programme, including contact details and current funding opportunities are on the Design for the 21st Century programme website.
About AHRC Initiatives
This programme is one of the AHRC programmes which opens up opportunities for research that has intellectual and wider cultural, social or economic urgency and that the Council considers is best supported by concentrated investments. It will also assist researchers working on interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary areas which do not fit into conventional funding opportunities.