News

Science and Innovation on Durham University’s regional agenda

(13 July 2006)

Durham University is showcasing some of its work on economic regeneration and its contribution to the quality of life and work in the North East to business leaders, regional officials and politicians on Monday (17 July).

About 80 invited guests are due to attend the evening reception which takes place among the marquees of the week-long Science Live event in the grounds of the NetPark technology park at Sedgefield. Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Kenneth Calman said: “We are proud to be part of the continuing movement for regeneration and enrichment in our region: science and innovation is a vital component in this. We have invited people to learn more about some of the ever-growing partnerships between Durham University and the wider community of the North East.“ The event includes an exhibition of examples of University work in the region involving about a dozen departments. There will also be a question and answer session following comments from Sir Kenneth and three guest speakers: Professor Wilson Sibbett CBE – Chair, Scottish Science Advisory Committee, Professor Raymond Oliver – Director of Strategy & Science at Cenamps, the region’s organisation for fostering links between entrepreneurs and leaders from industry, academia and government; and Professor Philip Jones – Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Durham University. The University is a major employer and a partner in research, analysis, business, tourism, sport, heritage and cultural activities, in the region. It has: • More than 3,000 staff and a current turnover of more than £160m. • International quality research that has produced 16 spin-off companies. • Extensive links with industry and the professions in the region from cell biology, electronics, renewable energy and the care of the environment to teaching, child development, management, medicine and healthcare. • A rising number – now about 19 per cent – of undergraduates recruited from North East schools. • Educational and cultural activities with schools and the wider public – including science projects, museum collections and Durham Castle, plus concerts, exhibitions and plays. • Colleges running residential, conference and other business activity outside the student term that bring an estimated £10m into the regional economy. • Shared activities with sports clubs, schools, local interest groups and student volunteer work with organisations in and around Durham and Stockton.