Lancaster secures technology partnership

Lancaster University’s position at the cutting edge of innovation in science and technology has been underlined by a major new partnership with QinetiQ, a leading defence security and technology company.

The strategic partnership will allow QinetiQ to access the expertise of the University of Lancaster - one of the UK’s top research-led universities and maintain an active involvement in its latest research innovations, in particular Nanoelectronics, Micro and Nano systems Engineering , Communications , Electronics vulnerability to radiation and Human-Centre research for technical design and evaluation.

In return QinetiQ, which has a strong UK customer base and is expanding in the USA, will provide expertise on technology transfer. This could involve advice on understanding market requirements, identifying customer needs, bidding for and managing projects for major customers or applying science and technology to new markets.

The partnership between Lancaster and QinetiQ was announced in November at the Royal Society in London. Speakers included Sir Keith O’Nions, Director General Research Councils and Professor John O’Reilly, Chief Executive Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council.

Speaking after the event, Professor Paul Wellings, Vice Chancellor of Lancaster University said: "We are delighted that QinetiQ has recognised that Lancaster is at the forefront of technological innovation across a range of science and technology disciplines. The relationship with QinetiQ could involve sharing facilities, resources and staff. It builds on our strong track record in the market place and will help ensure that we maximise opportunities for the commercial application of our research in the future."

Sir John Chisholm, QinetiQ’s executive chairman said: "Collaboration between business and universities is at the heart of the UK government’s innovation agenda and has a positive impact on commercial success. This cooperation creates an environment where innovations in the physical sciences - which have produced technologies such as the silicon chip and the microwave can be taken to market more effectively."

Lancaster will co-host the first 2-day workshop with QinetiQ in Feb 06 in Malvern to identify collaborative projects and ventures; if successful this should be repeated with other universities in the partnership.