July 2009 BROADSHEET - Research and Innovation at Cambridge’s Other University
Our June seminar took the form of a visit to the Cambridge campus of Anglia Ruskin University. CETC committee member Guy Mulley chaired the event, inking the speakers’ talks by using quotations from the University’s founding father, John Ruskin.
The opening speaker was Jemma Little, who is a Business Development Manager at the University and who devised the arrangements and panel of speakers for the evening. Jemma supports the Faculty of Science and Technology on all aspects of business development, from finding funding and bid-writing to technology transfer. Jemma is also responsible for developing relationships with businesses and organisations in the sustainability and technology sectors. Jemma gave an overview about the University and its history.
Simon Daly has a longstanding track record of management experience in academic, charity and commercial environments. In his current position as Knowledge Transfer Manager for the University, he is responsible for establishing knowledge transfer collaborations with commercial partners, regional development agencies, and government departments. Simon talked about the various funding mechanisms to support knowledge transfer or exchange between universities and industry, shared tips about how to succeed in winning funding support and gave some examples of the work that the University has done for local companies.
Dr Rob Toulson is a Senior Lecturer in Electronics and Audio & Music Technology at the University. Rob’s main research and teaching expertise covers software engineering for audio systems, electronics design, embedded systems design and audio/music production technology. Rob drew on his industrial experience, having worked with local companies such as ARM plc, Harpley Engineering and Pi Technology, to explain how his team manage academic and industry collaborations. His talk was also an example of how a job can sometimes be a hobby – Rob is a member of the indie rock band, Eureka Stockade, whose latest EP was released last month.
Professor Hassan Shirvani is Head of the Engineering Simulation Analysis & Tribology Group at the University. The group embraces the core disciplines of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and heat transfer. Research on energy and the environment is focussed on: modelling of energy supply and demand and associated environmental pollution; tribological life-cycle (wear & scuffing) analysis; and "clean technology" aspects of internal combustion (IC) engines and advanced vehicle energy studies. Hassan displayed a remarkable range of knowledge and inventions, drawn from such diverse areas as car crashes and atomisers. The audience were particularly surprised to learn how cost-effective university-industry collaborations can be.
The packed audience went away considerably informed about some of the hidden gems that are to be found at Anglia Ruskin University, particularly in the context of the technological and financial advantages to businesses who form relationships with the University. The CETC is very grateful to the University for opening its doors for this exclusive event and for its hospitality.
The Club is very fortunate in benefiting from the sponsorship of the following organisations:-
There are also other companies who give us generous help with specific meetings and services.
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