Member Article

North East alumni join forces for science

Durham and Newcastle universities are to work together in boosting the North East’s scientific reputation. The new partnership between the universities and regional development agency One NorthEast will explore collaborative projects in specific areas of complementary expertise, such as stem cell and energy research.

With the aim of attracting more academic researchers, private sector partners and investors into the region the partnership has evoked positive messages from all involved.

Chris Brink, Vice Chancellor of Newcastle University, said: “I am very pleased to be forming a trilateral partnership with One NorthEast to pursue a joint agenda for the benefit of the region.”

The Regional Science Partnership will now hold detailed discussions to establish new areas of joint activity. They will agree the best mechanisms for ensuring that the region exploits its intellectual capital commercially.

Chris Higgins, Vice Chancellor of Durham University, added that the partnership will “benefit both universities, the region as a whole and the UK to exploit this innovation for economic benefit.”

The projects bring a refreshed focus to Newcastle Science City through exclusive development of Newcastle-based activities including: providing specialist business-support services for science and technology businesses, developing the skills-base of the future and the proactive marketing of Newcastle Science City.

Rt Hon Nick Brown MP, Minister for the North East, said: “I wish the partnership every success and congratulations to the members for its formation.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .