FIRST WORD Susan Deacon, Chairman, ScottishPower Renewables
‘The University’s academics and researchers have made a tremendous impact’
In our globalised world, individuals, organisations and countries need to adapt, innovate and collaborate to meet the challenges and exploit the opportunities that lie ahead. Scotland’s Universities have long punched above their weight on the world stage – generating leading-edge thinking and research and producing people and inventions that have changed the world.
But while innovation might begin with a great idea, invention or scientific breakthrough, it must not end there. Knowledge needs to be unlocked – translated, shared and applied. More than ever, we need people to communicate and collaborate across boundaries and disciplines. The links between academia, business and industry are the key. Here, it is imperative that there is a constant flow of dialogue to ensure the needs of society go hand in hand with scientific and technological innovation.
The commercialisation of research is about much more than wealth creation – vital though that is. It is about ensuring that the benefits of innovation can enrich all of our lives. An idea that stays confined to the pages of a journal article or an invention that languishes in the laboratory must not become a missed opportunity. So it is in all our interests to make sure that knowledge is exploited rapidly and effectively. Over the years, the University of Edinburgh has been at the forefront of this interchange between research, innovation and entrepreneurship. In so many spheres, the University’s academics and researchers have made a tremendous impact.
This has not happened by accident – it has taken effort, investment and leadership. Edinburgh Research and Innovation is an exemplar of how this can be achieved. It has developed the infrastructure and practical support to enable inspired researchers to transform their ideas into game-changing technology and successful businesses, and has helped foster a culture of enterprise. I am delighted to introduce this issue of
Infinite, which continues to showcase the most recent transformative projects and products emerging from research and innovation at the University of Edinburgh. This includes innovation in DNA analysis, as well as outstanding work with companies to tackle major viral disease affecting the salmon industry and improve production processes in manufacturing cancer drugs and biocomposite materials. So, too, can we see how research and industry collaboration is working to reduce carbon emissions and harness renewable energy sources, thus helping to secure a greener energy future. Steve Jobs of Apple said: “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.”
The University of Edinburgh has more than proved it is a leader – and long may that continue.
ALTERNATIVE FORMATS
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alex.proudfoot@
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CONTACT
If you want to get in touch with us to find out more about research, innovation and enterprise at the University of Edinburgh, please contact...
EDINBURGH RESEARCH AND INNOVATION LIMITED
The University of Edinburgh 1 Roxburgh Street, Edinburgh EH8 9TA United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)131 650 9090 Email:
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www.research.innovation.ed.ac.uk
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