Aberdeen is to be home to a new centre of research excellence in subsea technologies. Millions of pounds are to be invested in the joint venture involving the University of Aberdeen, the Robert Gordon University and Dundee University. The three universities are working together on the new project through the Northern Research Partnership, which aims to establish research of international standing in areas of engineering.
Plans for the new venture were revealed by David Pridden, Chief Executive of the industry body, Subsea UK, at their annual awards dinner held in the city last night (February 13), attended by more than 600 people.
Research staff and academics, including a new Chair in Subsea Technologies at the University of Aberdeen, as part of its Campaign for the 6th Century, are to be recruited for the institute.
Professor Albert A Rodger, Vice Principal and Head of the College of Physical Sciences, said the University strongly supported initiatives to promote and develop the future of the subsea industry internationally from its strong UK base in Aberdeen city and shire.
He said: "Through the Northern Research Partnership the three Universities are pooling research strengths across strategically important areas of engineering. This has positioned us very well indeed to work in full partnership with Subsea UK to create a Centre of Research Excellence in Subsea Technologies.
"The new institute is a real statement of intent to invest in subsea technologies. To support and develop the future needs of the subsea industry in years ahead, the Universities have made, and will continue to make, investments to sustain the future of the subsea industry in terms of education, research and development.
"With this new initiative, we are asserting the position of the UK as the leading centre for the international subsea industry."
As part of the new institute plans, laboratory space for subsea research and development will be created within the Fraser Noble Building at the University.
The University has just started a new postgraduate Master of Science (MSc) in subsea engineering. The new programme is enrolling students both on a full and part-time basis, by distance learning, with the stated aim of growing the numbers of subsea engineers entering the industry with high level qualifications.
Aberdeen is also investigating the introduction of a new undergraduate degree programme focused towards the subsea industry. This will be in addition to the University's growing suite of degree programmes for the oil and gas industry, which includes Chemical Engineering and Petroleum Engineering. The new programme is being designed to encourage the most capable young engineers to view the industry as a long-term career option, founded on the University's solid, general engineering base in the first two years, which is unique in Scotland.
Professor Rodger continued: "We want this new institute to become a world centre of excellence in subsea. It will help address the research and development needs of the industry for many years to come."
The University already has a history of success in subsea through spin-out company, Brinker Technology, which was awarded best newcomer to the subsea industry at last night's industry awards dinner. The firm had a double success as its business-development manager, Klaire Evans, was named best young personality of the year.
The University is participating at this week's Subsea 08 event at the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre (and can be located at Stand B13). It is among 100 companies and organisations showcasing cutting-edge technologies and the latest innovations and services.