The UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) met last month to discuss calls for further consultation before announcing changes to its funding strategy (Nature 477, 514; 2011). We wish to correct several misunderstandings that exist within the research community.

Research excellence remains pre-eminent and the Council will continue to support applications that are deemed excellent by peer review. We have introduced “national importance” as an additional criterion, but this will not override research excellence.

In deciding which of the areas within our budget we want to grow, maintain or reduce, there are no research areas that we shall completely withdraw from funding. A proposal based on outstanding research will be funded in any area.

Our strategy for supporting training and fellowships will be more targeted, but it will provide flexibility for both individuals and institutions.

We shall continue to work with our advisory teams, stakeholders and research leaders to ensure that we optimize the deployment of our limited resources.