Smart Data Research UK (SDR UK) is the UK’s national programme for smart data research. Its mission is to bring together companies, academics, innovators and governments to use data to improve lives through a better understanding of the world and solving social and economic challenges.

SDR UK is publicly funded by the UK Government through UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), and delivered by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC). The programme is part of the UKRI Infrastructure Fund, which supports the facilities, equipment and resources essential for researchers and innovators to do ground-breaking work.

What is smart data?

Smart data is generated whenever we engage with the digital world — whether shopping online, using social media or getting directions. When used responsibly for scientific research, this data can transform our understanding of complex social challenges.

Our challenge and solution

Researchers have struggled to access smart data due to insufficient infrastructure, underdeveloped methods, and fragmented ethical and legal approaches. SDR UK addresses these barriers by providing safe, secure data access through:

  • Developing long-term partnerships with data owners
  • Providing a secure data infrastructure
  • Building public trust through responsible research and citizen engagement
  • Supporting the next generation of smart data researchers

Data services

SDR UK is delivered by a family of data services based at leading UK universities and research organisations. Each service acquires, stewards, and enables safe access to diverse smart data within secure environments that protect privacy while enabling breakthrough research.

 

Find out more and connect

LinkedIn: Smart Data Research UK

Bluesky: sdruk.bsky.social