World-Class Partnership Launched

Thursday 8 March 2007
World-Class Partnership Launched
The official launch of the Research and Enterprise Partnership between the University of Wales, Aberystwyth (UWA) and the University of Wales, Bangor (UWB), took place on 7 March at the Senedd building of the National Assembly for Wales.

This pioneering collaboration will build on the research reputations and capabilities of the two universities.  It will create a sustainable and world-class research base in North and Mid-Wales, capable of operating locally and internationally.

The Partnership will be funded by an allocation of almost £11 million from the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales and the Welsh Assembly Government through the Reconfiguration and Collaboration Fund. It will feature a joint research management structure and investment in academic areas where the institutions have research synergies.

The universities' aim is to create a sustainable and strategic relationship in the context of research, involving a range of disciplines, changing the research landscape and  enhancing their international competitiveness.
Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning and Skills, Jane Davidson, commenting on the official launch said: “The Research and Enterprise Partnership is a very exciting and significant development for the universities. As well as the academic benefits, it will enhance the social and cultural development of Wales. I'm sure the partnership will prove invaluable”.

Commenting on the collaboration, Vice-Chancellor of the UWA, Noel Lloyd, stated: “Our two institutions have long and distinguished records of undertaking cutting edge research. This partnership will enable us to develop a more prominent international profile”.

Vice-Chancellor of the UWB, Merfyn Jones, speaking ahead of the launch: “This partnership will see the universities go from strength to strength. It is a long-term endeavour where the benefits will also be felt outside of the academic framework”.