As part of a programme to gather knowledge about current research and innovation, Professor Sir Mark Walport stopped off at TWI in Abington near Cambridge to see the latest processes in action and to learn more about current research and innovation being carried out at the organisation. Sir Mark was welcomed by TWI Chief Executive Christoph Wiesner.
During a tour of the laboratories, Sir Mark learned about the changing research environment and how TWI is driving the take-up of innovative technologies through a new programme of partnerships with industry and universities. Sir Mark met with researchers and students and saw how research is being accelerated for industrial take-up across many sectors. Discussions and demonstrations covered the testing of materials in arduous environments including sour service and high pressure hydrogen, adhesives, composites, ceramics and medical devices, laser technology for nuclear decommissioning and additive manufacturing, chain test rigs, thermal spraying for wear, corrosion and lightning strike protection, linear friction welding of tailored blanks and non-destructive testing research.
Sir Mark offered information on the status of UK funding and more detail on the formation of UKRI, ahead of a discussion on the current and future funding landscape for research and innovation in the UK. As Chief Executive of UKRI, Sir Mark will oversee seven Research Councils, Innovate UK and a new organisation, Research England, to help deliver on industrial strategy proposals for investment in science, research and innovation in the UK.
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