A team from Queen’s briefed the Minister on the University’s unique role in supporting research and development, the Belfast Region City Deal and opportunities posed by and arising from the UK Government’s Innovation Strategy.

 

Speaking about the visit, Professor Greer said:

“We were delighted to welcome the Business Secretary to Queen’s to discuss the vital role of the University in the Innovation Strategy.

 

“Our team also updated the Secretary of State on the recent Smart Nano NI Consortium funding allocation, a once in a generation opportunity for Northern Ireland which will accelerate the development of transformative advanced prototyping and smart manufacturing methods. 

 

“Northern Ireland is well positioned as a global leader for excellence in the field of nanotechnologies as well as delivering a significant and lasting impact on our local economy. 

 

“Innovation is part of the fabric at Queen’s and we are very proud of our key role in delivering in growth areas where Northern Ireland has international strength and capability.” 

 

UK Business and Energy Secretary, Kwasi Kwarteng, said:

“I was delighted to meet the team at Queen’s University and see the work they do with private sector partners in developing Northern Ireland’s research and development capabilities, ensuring we keep pace with the global innovation race.

 

“Projects like Smart Nano NI, backed by UK government funding, are an exemplar of academia, business and government working hand in hand to harness the spirit of discovery and turn world-leading science into new products and services, creating jobs, growth and export opportunities.”

 

Dr Mark Gubbins, speaking on behalf of Smart Nano NI, said:

“Northern Ireland has a unique cluster of expertise in photonics and nanotechnology. Smart Nano NI builds upon the combined expertise of our companies and the availability of trained researchers and resources across our academic institutions.

 

“Working together we are advancing Northern Ireland’s capability around nano manufacturing and world-leading knowledge in photonics to create a self-sustaining local industry. This will deliver significant benefits for the economic growth of the region and the corridor of businesses from Belfast to Derry/Londonderry, ensuring a levelling up of shared opportunities.”

 

 Find out more about Smart Nano NI at www.smartnanoni.com

 

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For more information contact comms.office@qub.ac.uk