When it comes to Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP), Queen’s University Belfast is not just keeping up with the rest of the UK – we are setting the standard.

At the national KTP Awards ceremony held in Birmingham on Wednesday, 27^th November, Queen's received recognition in not one, but three categories! This hat-trick brings the total KTP awards received by Queen's to 25 - more than any other participating university. 

• 'Academic of the Year' for Dr Tara Brooks of the School of Natural and Built Environment
• 'Future Leader' for Associate Úna Barrett
• 'Best Promotional Video' for KTP at Queen's. Watch here.

Dr Brooks and Úna worked together on a KTP with Felix O’Hare & Co. Ltd in Newry, focusing on sustainability and decarbonisation with the construction industry. Through the KTP project, Tara developed a roadmap to achieve net-zero, cutting carbon emissions across operations and the supply chain. Beyond research, Tara has mentored Úna Barrett, winner of the 'Future Leader' award, shaping the next generation of sustainability leaders. Her blend of academic expertise and industry insight makes Tara a key driver of progress in both academia and the construction sector.

Úna’s journey through the KTP programme has been inspiring. In leading the project, Úna worked tirelessly to rethink how the industry approaches sustainable practices, and her efforts are already making a significant impact. We look forward to seeing how Úna continues to lead and inspire. 

Professor Archie Clements, Pro-Vice Chancellor of Research and Enterprise at Queen’s, is delighted with the recognition, “These awards highlight the hard work of both the KTP team and our academics in engaging effectively with Northern Ireland businesses and developing the next generation of leaders. For both Tara and Úna to be celebrated at a national level, underscores the University’s commitment to transforming research into real-world impact. Congratulations to all on their achievements.”

“It is a proud moment for us” says Lorraine Marks, Head of KTP and Business Engagement Programmes at Queen’s. “For 30 years, Queen’s has been a leader in KTP, enabling our academic researchers to support businesses in innovative projects that deliver economic growth across all corners of Northern Ireland and beyond.”

Looking ahead to the 50th anniversary of Innovate UK’s flagship programme in 2025, Lorraine added, “As we approach this milestone, our goal is to expand the reach and impact of KTP, partnering with more businesses and supporting them in their innovation journey.”

If you have an innovative business idea and would like to see if a KTP could help take it forward, contact us at ktp@qub.ac.uk or visit KTP for Businesses

KTPs are funded by UKRI through Innovate UK with the support of co-funders, including the Scottish Funding Council, Welsh Government, Invest Northern Ireland, Defra and BEIS. Innovate UK manages the KTP programme and facilitates its delivery through a range of partners including Innovate UK Business Connect, Knowledge Bases and Businesses. Each partner plays a specific role in the support and delivery of the programme.

Media

For media enquiries contact aoife.lynch@qub.ac.uk