New role, new professor...

New role, new professor...

Because of the generous support of two leading companies in the field of Energy research, DONG Energy and Ikon Science, the University has created a new and exciting post of Professor of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) and Energy.

At a ceremony in July, Brent Cheshire, Managing Director of DONG Energy (UK) Ltd., Martyn Millwood Hargrave, Chief Executive of Ikon Science, and Professor Chris Higgins, Vice-Chancellor of Durham University, (all Durham alumni) signed an agreement confirming the Professorship. The new role will include leading the recently launched CCS Research Group (part of the University's Centre for Research into Earth Energy Systems).

The two companies will lend their experience in producing and distributing energy, and developing new technologies for monitoring and modelling the injection of CO2 into the earth. This three-way partnership is fantastic in re-engaging both Brent and Martyn with their Alma Mater whilst also allowing Durham scientists to work on new ways of storing CO2 emissions underground to help in the fight against global warming.

Research into carbon capture and storage further strengthens Durham's work in the field of green energy which includes research into wind and wave power, solar energy, biofuels and the social implications of energy use.

Without the involvement of both DONG Energy and Ikon Science this would not have been possible, and through the creation of the Professorship, Durham hopes to attract a leading figure in the area of carbon capture and storage to take on the role.