UK’s Innovation CEO examines new opportunities for Wales

The future landscape of innovation in Wales and opportunities for business and academia will be outlined by the Chief Executive of Innovate UK (IUK) at a Cardiff public lecture.

Dr Ruth McKernan CBE will discuss IUK support for innovation across the UK, with a particular focus on activities in Wales.

The free event is being co-hosted by Cardiff University, the Campaign for Science and Engineering (CaSE) and The Learned Society of Wales (LSW).

During the talk, Dr McKernan will outline new opportunities available within the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund and through the formation of UK Research and Innovation.

“At Innovate UK I get to see the fantastic people and projects we support all over the UK,” said Dr McKernan. “In visiting Cardiff, it is clear to me, that Wales is an innovation nation. Wales built the industrial revolution with coal and iron, and as we enter the fourth industrial revolution it can unleash its potential again – whether in aviation, renewable energy, life sciences and in compound semiconductors. Working with these brilliant sectors, Innovate UK is proud to support innovation in Wales.”

CaSE Executive Director Dr Sarah Main said: “Science and engineering are crucial to Wales' future. It makes sense to build on the nation’s world-leading capability in science and engineering to deliver a strong economy, high value jobs, and healthier, happier lives. As the leading independent advocacy group for the science and engineering sector across the UK, CaSE is delighted to be partnering with the Learned Society for Wales and Cardiff University in welcoming Dr Ruth McKernan to Wales for this insightful and timely lecture.”

Professor Peter Halligan, Chief Executive of LSW, added: “Despite historical under-funding, Wales has demonstrated strengths in compound semi-conductors, aerospace, advanced manufacturing and materials, steel, energy, bio-sciences data science and financial and professional services. Ensuring that Wales has the future research capacity to win greater competitive funding to build a stronger and sustainable innovative base will require developing synergies with the UK industrial policy designed to drive regional growth strategies and fuel local innovation systems that allow grow greater economic growth, productivity and social prosperity.”

‘New Strategies for Backing the UK’s Leading Innovators’ takes place on Wednesday 28 February from 18:30 to 20:00 at the Hadyn Ellis Building, CF24 4HQ, with a drinks reception from 17:30.

All attendees must register here to be admitted.