EPSRC Deputy Director, Future Communications and Quantum Technologies
Dr Derek Craig is the Deputy Director for Future Communications and Quantum Technologies in the Strategy Directorate at the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).
Derek is responsible for the strategic leadership of EPSRC’s research and innovation strategies for both areas, working in collaboration with colleagues from across UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the external academic, business, and policy communities.
He also has a leading role in the delivery of the UKRI Technology Missions Fund, working in partnership with technology leads from across UKRI and policy teams in the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology.
His role includes:
- leading EPSRC’s quantum technologies mission-inspired priority and the newly formed EPSRC future communications area
- oversight of EPSRC’s research and investment portfolio in both areas
- board member for the UK’s National Quantum Technologies Programme
- working in partnership with UKRI Investment Strategy team to coordinate UKRI’s delivery of research and innovation activities across critical technologies
Also as an EPSRC senior leader, he has relationship management responsibilities with key strategic partnerships.
Derek joined EPSRC in 2015 following a PhD in Chemistry at the University of Strathclyde and after spending two years as a postdoctoral research fellow at the University of St. Andrews.
During his time at EPSRC he has held a variety of roles and led several major projects including:
- Portfolio Manager Mathematical Sciences
- Senior Portfolio Manager Research Council UK Energy Programme
- Programme lead for the Faraday Battery Challenge
- Head of Regional Engagement Scotland
- Coordinator for the UKRI research and innovation response to COVID-19
- Deputy Director for EPSRC’s Engineering Net Zero priority
Last updated: 31 March 2025