Five Aberdeen students are among the 2012 university scholarships announced by Talisman Energy (UK) Limited to support future talent for the UK oil and gas industry.
Talisman Energy has invested more than £1million through its pioneering Scholarship Programme which was launched in 2006 to support students at both the University of Aberdeen and the Robert Gordon University.
The Aberdeen students are Max Norman, who receives the Talisman Energy Postgraduate Scholarship, Eamon Baker who is the new Talisman Energy Specialist Scholar, and Callum MacLeod, Clare Hyland and Ryan MacKenzie who have been awarded Talisman Energy Undergraduate Scholarships.
The company’s UK Senior Vice President Geoff Holmes said: “Talisman has highlighted its long-term commitment to the North Sea through our joint venture partnership with Sinopec, the progression of major projects such as our £1.6 billion Montrose Area Redevelopment project, and the launch of a major recruitment campaign.
“Not only do our scholarship programmes give financial support for our students, we also provide mentors and practical work experience to help them develop their skills, knowledge and expertise. As an industry, it is vital that we nurture and grow the next generation of the oil and gas industry, and Talisman is committed to playing its part.”
Professor Ian Diamond, Principal of the University of Aberdeen, said: “The Talisman Scholarship Programme is a wonderful example of how we are working with – and for – industry to attract and develop the talented students who will lead the energy sector in the future decades. Together we can ensure they have the professional skills, personal qualities and international outlook to take on the challenges and maximise the opportunities facing the sector over the coming years.”
Professor Ferdinand von Prondzynski, Principal of Robert Gordon University, said: “We are extremely pleased to be working in partnership with Talisman to produce graduates who will excel in the energy sector, and these awards have already generated interest from talented individuals, who might not have considered a career in the sector. This scholarship programme will alleviate some of the financial pressures students face, allowing them to concentrate fully on building the specialist skills and knowledge which make them globally sought-after."
The new scholars received their awards at a special ceremony at Aberdeen Art Gallery on Tuesday 20 November, attended by their friends and families along with staff from Talisman and both universities.