HE engineering plays a pivotal role in a healthy and thriving innovation ecosystem and has a long history as a source of innovative ideas for tackling global societal challenges. This work is essential for successful transition of research into industry and critical to the sustainability and growth of regions.
The EPC Research, Innovation and Knowledge Transfer (RIKT) committee is embarking on the collation of a compendium of Research and Development (R&D) in engineering academia to showcase and harness the profile of academics’ (and other HE engineering staff’s) existing projects. By articulating a compelling narrative, we aim to support the confidence of politicians and regional leaders in championing the value of R&D in our departments; it also provides an optimistic basis for advocacy and a rich resource for ongoing EPC campaigning. By promoting the value of R&D through a breadth and depth of case-studies, we aim to make the engineering academic workforce more visible to policy makers to promote a deeply held appetite to ensure future funding and delivery.
If you are interested in supporting this work, we invite EAN members to submit HE engineering case studies of places solving real-world problems though R&D. We are looking to attract as many interests, sectors, disciplines, regions and industries as possible, as well as a diversity of project size and contributor seniority.
There is strong evidence that foregrounding the purpose, the place – highlighting local opportunity and advantages – and focusing on partnerships and collaboration are key levers to R&D support. These facets also demonstrate to political decision makers that R&D can help achieve their policy priorities.
Exemplars will be accepted until the end of June, using this template which reflects these important impacts of our members’ R&D. A panel of the RIKT committee will then review these and a more detailed set of information will be sought for a final printed compendium. Meanwhile, an online EAN R&D “library book” will be published on the EPC website. In providing your information, you are consenting to the publication of your case study. Editorial will be collaborative, where appropriate.
We look forward to working with you on this important campaign.
