NetworkPlus in Terahertz Systems

The last 20 years have witnessed a remarkable growth in the field of terahertz (THz) frequency science and technology. Supported by strong and on-going research investments in the UK, and internationally, and the progressive translation of research into industry, the field has matured into a vibrant and impactful area of international research, with a global market estimated to be worth $600–900 million in 2023. Previously, the University of Leeds led the UK Network “Teranet” (funded 2014–2018) that had a primary aim of overcoming the fragmentation of UK THz science and technology, which had previously been driven by several separate UK scientific communities, each developing complementary but different technologies. Through an inclusive approach to a series of large national meetings, and engagement with professional bodies such as the Royal Society of Chemistry, we successfully brought the UK THz community together; a particular highlight was the community-driven generation of international THz Science and Technology Roadmaps in 2017 and in 2023, both published in the Journal of Applied Physics. We will now establish a new NetworkPlus based on a systems-level approach to bring about deeper collaboration between the UK and international terahertz communities, and act as a focal point for UK research in terahertz science, devices, systems and their applications. The potential benefits to the UK from the new collaborations will be substantial, ranging from fundamental science to commercially relevant applications with significant potential for economic and societal impact. Our network will complement existing research programmes, build UK capability and future leaders, and drive and facilitate multi-disciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange across research and stakeholder communities in the UK and internationally. These aims will be delivered through the following Objectives. We will: Develop new, and enhance existing, connections and collaborations between the UK and international terahertz communities (including, for example, through UKRI lead agency agreements), with an immediate focus on capitalizing on the opportunities afforded by the current DFG INTEREST programme. Establish six thematic and inclusive Special Interest Groups (SIGs) representing the diverse, interdisciplinary UK terahertz community, to drive technical and collaborative research, and knowledge exchange. Showcase the best of UK science and technology, and the new research engendered by the NetworkPlus and the current EPSRC call for research projects in Terahertz Technology and Systems, accelerating knowledge transfer through annual national meetings. Facilitate and enhance collaborations by funding travel, mobility and small-scale innovative pump-priming activities, pilot projects and feasibility studies using a flexible funding scheme. Encourage greater impact through sector-specific terahertz Industrial Engagement meetings, training events led by Industry, showcase meetings, and SIG workshops. Support early and mid-career academics, and empower them to engage widely, and effectively, with business and with international colleagues through a structured programme of career development activities. Develop a ten-year Roadmap for Terahertz Science and Technology, co-created by the NetworkPlus stakeholder communities. This will identify important research and innovation opportunities, and the pathways needed to deliver significant impact, along with potential interventions needed by policy makers and funders. Deeply embed ED&I considerations in the Network’s management, governance and all its operations, supported by ringfenced Access and Outreach funds. Provide advocacy for the terahertz community and EPSRC investments on behalf of all NetworkPlus stakeholders.