Modes of access
We offer the following modes of peer-reviewed access, depending on the facility:
- direct access: one to eight weeks one-off access, typically within a six-month period
- continuation of approved programmes: update on progress for the following six months
- Lasers4EU direct access: some time is set aside specifically for groups/researchers from non-UK EU and specific non-EU countries. This time is funded through Laserlab Europe and is for a single visit to use the facilities
Learn more about Lasers4EU access
Eligibility
You may be eligible if:
- the main applicant or co-investigator is a UK academic (including postdoctoral researchers) for regular direct access, or a non-UK academic for Lasers4EU direct access
- the main applicant holds a position that lasts for the duration of the scheduling period
- the main applicant is not a PhD student; they can, however be co-investigators
- for access funded by Lasers4EU, the majority of users works outside the UK
Please note that each call’s criteria may vary. If you are unsure about your eligibility, are ineligibile, or need access before the next round, please contact us to discuss alternative routes. There may be alternative routes for international applicants.
Submitting a proposal
You can submit a proposal on the STFC proposal site. For more information about our system, please refer to this in-depth proposal system guidance PDF.
For general enquiries about proposals, or if you cannot access the guidance PDF, contact the CLF User Office by email. Your facility of interest may also be able to answer your general enquires.
For technical support with the online proposal application site, contact the user software support team.
Important information
Safety
Once accepted, all users must complete the mandatory safety training.
The CLF also provides several opportunities per year for extra learning and experience using our facilities.
Learn more about training opportunities for users
Publication of accepted proposals
In line with other research councils who make available summary information on funded research, the CLF will publish:
- the title and abstract
- the principal investigator and co-investigator names and institution
- the facility you applied for, number weeks you applied for, and what was allocated
Information will be published on our website and via the Research Councils ‘Gateway to Research’ site.
We will make it clear within the CLF proposal system what information will be made public.
All users must agree to the terms and conditions.
