New Southampton technologies to come to market through innovation scheme
Cutting-edge physics, astronomy and mathematics research will be developed into disruptive new technologies through support from an embedded innovation fellow at the University of Southampton.
Professor Mark Sullivan, Head of Physics and Astronomy, has been awarded around ã300,000 from the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) for a four-year fellowship position in the Knowledge Exchange and Commercialisation Scheme (KEC).
The new fellow will increase researchers' engagement and collaborative working with industry, while strengthening the commercial potential of STFC-funded research.
Southampton has a strong track record of industrial, medical and third-sector impact from its activities in the School of Physics and Astronomy.
Spin-out company Symetrica is breaking new ground in the field of radiation detection, identification and homeland security, while astronomical image processing developed from research is being adapted to provide early detection of skin cancer in the MoleGazer project.
Professor Sullivan says: "The Southampton environment is exceptionally conducive to knowledge exchange and commercialisation work, with a vibrant spirit of entrepreneurship, and our KEC Fellow will introduce a co-ordinated approach making the most of the opportunities throughout our research.
"In the coming years there is planned increased support for the nuclear industry; energy, digital and satellite technologies; healthcare; manufacturing and robotics - all areas where Southampton STFC researchers can contribute to R&D activity and innovate disruptive new technologies."
The new KEC fellow will be based in Physics and Astronomy with Professor Sullivan and spend additional time located in the University's Research and Innovation Services department.
Since 2011, the University of Southampton has been awarded £10.7million in STFC funding, and currently hold four consolidated grants, three Ernest Rutherford Fellowships and various STFC 'Opportunities' grants.
The fellow will augment a portfolio of engagement and support available to Southampton researchers, including Royal Society Entrepreneur in Residence, Dr Adam Hill; the SPace Research Innovation Network for Technology (SPRINT); corporate partnerships; membership of the Rosalind Franklin Institute and Alan Turing Institute; SEPNet (South East Physics Network) programmes; DISCnet (Data Intensive Science Centre in SEPnet); the SetSquared Partnership and the on-campus Future Worlds startup accelerator.