From the screening of infectious diseases, to early diagnosis of bowel cancer, understanding the environmental impact of wildfires, responding to online terrorist propaganda, developing safety equipment for professional athletes and showcasing Science in the community; the astonishing range of research and innovation carried out at Swansea University was in the spotlight at the Research and Innovation Awards 2020.
Researchers from across the University’s seven Colleges were invited to submit entries with over 112 received, spread over the ten award categories. Each application exemplified the quality, relevance and positive global impact of Swansea University’s research and its potential to inspire.
Swansea University Vice Chancellor Professor Paul Boyle said:
“Swansea University has come an incredibly long way since King George V laid our foundation stone and the doors were opened to our first intake of students a century ago this year.
“Founded by industry for industry, Swansea University’s success in making a difference over the last 100 years has been as a result of collaboration. Our continued success over the next 100 years, and our ability to tackle rapidly emerging global challenges, and capitalise on exciting new opportunities will be as a result of collaboration.
“As an Institution we have engaged with over 4,000 organisations across 53 countries in our recent past. These awards showcase what can be achieved when we work together. The Impact we are having together. The difference we are making together.”
The winners were announced at a ceremony at Swansea University’s Great Hall, with a keynote speech from the under Secretary of State for Wales.
David TC Davies, UK Government Minister for Wales said:
“Swansea University has for so many years played a central role in enhancing the economic prospects of the region and the whole of Wales, as well as contributing research of global significance.
“The ground-breaking research and innovation projects currently taking place on campus are vitally important in educating the next generation, facilitating the creation of new companies and skilled jobs and continuing to attract the brightest talent to Wales and the UK.”
Prior to announcing the winning entries, guests from industry, academia, third sector, funding bodies and Government were treated to an inspiring presentation from Professor Amy Brown and Dr Natalie Shenker about how they are collaborating together to change the conversation around breastfeeding and the positive and inspiring impact this has had on many people’s lives.
Ceri Jones, Director of Research, Engagement & Innovation Services (REIS) at Swansea University said:
“I would like to thank our headline sponsor, the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council for their continued support, and for the legacy they have instilled within our research culture. In giving us the tools to maximise the impact of much of our research and innovation activities here at Swansea University.
“I would also like to thank all of our event sponsors, many of whom we are delighted to have worked with over previous years, and all of which we look forward to collaborating with over the years to come.
“REIS is extremely proud to have organised this year’s Research and Innovation awards. The quality, quantity and diversity of research from across Swansea University, being carried out at the highest possible level, never ceases to amaze.
“I would encourage anyone looking to collaborate with the University to join our collaborative network Swansea University: LINC and get involved.”
