The network team at a public event - new funding will allow the network to continue
The pan-Wales research network in advanced engineering and materials, led by a Swansea University Engineering Professor, has received a second round of funding which will allow it to continue its work for a further 2 years.
The Sêr Cymru National Research Network (NRN) in Advanced Engineering and Materials aims to promote research excellence and industrial engagement across a wide spectrum of engineering challenges.
Between 2013 and 2019 the Engineering NRN was highly successful in driving forward research and development in Wales through collaboration. Over 60 R&D projects, partnered by Welsh university researchers and industry teams, were delivered.
Now, thanks to £183,000 of funding from the European Regional Development Fund via the Welsh Government, its work can continue, with a relaunch event on 29 June.
All higher education institutions in Wales are now involved in the NRN: engineering, applied science and technology departments at the universities of Aberystwyth, Bangor, Cardiff, Cardiff Metropolitan, Swansea, University of South Wales, UWTSD and Wrexham Glyndwr are all working together to promote the best of engineering innovation from across Wales.
The network is open to all academics within Welsh higher education institutions who are working in a field related to advanced engineering processes and materials. It is one of three Sêr Cymru National Research Networks.
The NRN is managed by Professor Huw Summers, Faculty of Science and Engineering at Swansea University, and overseen by a steering group that includes representatives from the universities involved and industry partner TWI Ltd.
Professor Huw Summers of Swansea University, director of the network, said:
“I am delighted to announce the continuation of the network in a new project, funded by the European Regional Development Fund, through Welsh Government.
The first phase of the NRN focussed on building relationships across Wales and beyond through collaborative research projects that funded 40 PhD students and 46 postdoctoral researchers in joint programmes with over 70 commercial partners.
The bold move by Welsh Government to create the Sêr Cymru programme is now rightly recognised as an innovative and ambitious step that has provided a significant boost to Wales’ R&D capability. It is excellent to see this momentum maintained in a second phase of the network.”