Queen’s University Belfast has received a significant investment to boost its world-class aerospace engineering research from Boeing.  

The announcement came as a team led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Ian Greer visited Boeing’s site just outside of Washington DC. 

The University will target the investment to support the creation of the Boeing Material Characterisation and Processing Laboratory, reinforcing Queen’s long-standing leadership in the field of mechanical and aerospace engineering.  

The announcement has been warmly welcomed by students as a significant investment in their future, providing them with access to the tools and technology needed to develop industry-ready skills. For staff, the new lab will enhance their ability to deliver hands-on, research-led teaching in a dynamic environment.  

Welcoming the news, Queen’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Ian Greer said: 

"This generous support from Boeing solidifies Queen’s University’s reputation as a leader in aerospace research and education. As we celebrate our 180th anniversary, this investment will help to secure our future in aeronautical engineering, providing students with unparalleled opportunities to engage with pioneering research and industry expertise. This partnership will not only advance global aerospace innovation but also strengthen Northern Ireland’s position as a hub for advanced manufacturing and engineering excellence.” 

  Maria Laine, President of Boeing UK, Ireland and Nordics, said:  

“Our partnership in Northern Ireland dates back more than 50 years and we continue to benefit from the country’s highly skilled supply chain today, including its strong experience in the aerospace and defence industry. We can’t wait to see how the new laboratory at Queen’s University Belfast inspires and develops the next generation of aerospace innovators, supporting the growth of the industry in the region and beyond.”

Building on Belfast’s proud tradition in aeronautical engineering, this state-of-the-art facility will drive advancements in materials science, foster industry collaboration, and provide hands-on training for the next generation of engineers and scientists. The lab will serve as a hub for innovation, ensuring that students benefit from cutting-edge research and real-world applications while strengthening Queen’s global partnerships. 

Professor Adrian Murphy, who will lead the development of the new lab, emphasised the transformative impact of Boeing’s investment: 

"Collaboration between industry and academia is invaluable to both our students and staff. Boeing’s support will help create a world-class learning environment, giving students hands-on experience with real hardware in labs and workshops. This helps students build a strong skill set and ensures they are ready to contribute to the aerospace industry from day one. Exposure to leading-edge infrastructure also sparks creativity and fresh thinking, driving innovation. This investment strengthens our partnership with Boeing and equips our students with the best foundation for future success in aerospace engineering." 

Emily Bond, a Queen’s Aerospace Engineering student, highlighted the positive impact this gift will have: 

“This new lab will give students like me access to next generation facilities, allowing us to work with the latest materials and technologies shaping the future of flight. From learning the fundamentals of aeronautics to designing and building real aircraft, the support from Queen’s, and Boeing, ensures we have the skills and experience to continue to drive innovation in the industry." 

The Boeing Material Characterisation and Processing Laboratory will be a key asset in Queen’s ongoing mission to bridge academic research with industrial applications. Expected to be completed by spring 2028, the facility will enhance Queen’s position as a global leader in advanced manufacturing and engineering while ensuring that Belfast remains at the forefront of aerospace excellence. 

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