The Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) funds the 7 Research Councils, who allocate public funds to support research projects.

They cover all academic disciplines from the medical and biological sciences, astronomy, physics, chemistry and engineering, to social sciences, economics, environmental sciences and the arts and humanities.

• Arts and Humanities Research Council
• Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council
• Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council
• Economic and Social Research Council
• Medical Research Council
• Natural Environment Research Council
• Science and Technology Facilities Council

The Royal Society is the UK and Commonwealth's independent scientific academy dedicated to promoting excellence in science. It plays an influential role in national and international science policy and supports developments in science, engineering and technology.

The Royal Academy of Engineering brings together the country's most eminent engineers from all disciplines to promote excellence in the science, art and practice of engineering.

Swine Flu DNA Test

British scientists have created the first rapid test kits for the new swine flu virus. They claim the DNA based kits are the first on the market that can give results in two hours. The Southampton based team say they have identified a “unique genetic tag” for the virus, which could help to identify and contain its spread.

There are already systems on the market to look for flu, but the company says its new kit is the first in the world that will be available to specifically look for the new version of the flu virus.

It works by rapidly multiplying a sample of DNA taken from the suspected swine flu sufferer. If the H1N1 strain is present in the sample, the test homes in on the genetic material unique to the infection. This allows it to quickly differentiate between those suffering from the new strain and those with more common strains of the flu virus.

If swine flu continues to spread its hoped the scientific breakthrough will ensure rapid diagnosis, enabling governments and health authorities to monitor its progress and hopefully contain it.