By Emer O’Toole
Several Scottish universities, including the University of Strathclyde, will take part in a scheme to train future scientists and engineers.
Strathclyde is taking on a leading role in the £350 million plan which will benefit over 3,500 postgraduate students at over 70 new Centres for Doctoral Training (CTDs)- Strathclyde will lead three of these and will be in partnership with two others.
Known as research leaders in these areas, Strathclyde’s ability to gain the funding in the extremely competitive environment will give students access to an upgraded research-based learning environment.
Strathclyde’s CDTs will be for: future power networks and smart grids, wind and marine energy systems, and medical devices and health technologies.
Strathclyde is also a partner in a CDT in Diamond Science and Technology and a CDT in Applied Photonics.
Principal of the University of Strathclyde Professor Sir Jim McDonald said: “At Strathclyde we are committed to collaboration with business to enhance our post graduates’ impact through their cutting edge research and support for industrial innovation.
“As a leading international technological institution, we are proud to play a critical role in shaping future developments in science, engineering and technology as well as accelerating UK economic growth through our high-quality doctoral students – the global industry leaders of tomorrow.”
Science Minister David Willetts said: “This type of collaboration is a key element of our industrial strategy and will continue to keep us at the forefront of the global science race.”
The investment will benefit 24 UK universities, particularly targeted at areas vital to economic growth, designated by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council.
