Professor David Flynn named Knowledge Exchange Champion at Interface Awards

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Over 150 people came together from across Scotland to attend the 5th Knowledge Exchange award ceremony in Edinburgh on Thursday, February 27.

The event celebrated local and global impacts achieved for society and the economy through R&D partnerships and knowledge sharing between businesses, colleges, universities and research institutes.

The night highlighted the achievements academic-business collaborative projects that demonstrated innovation and transformation, as well as individuals who go above and beyond in their contribution to knowledge exchange.

Professor David Flynn, School of Engineering and Physical Sciences was joint winner for Knowledge Exchange Champion of the Year alongside Professor Marian Wiercigroch from the University of Aberdeen.

Professor Flynn won the award for bringing global advocacy for Scotland’s universities, highlighting how they serve society and industry in partnership, not only to bring solutions to today’s challenges but strategies to engineer a better future. He passionately supports new technology as an enabler for social mobility and wealth creation.

Speaking after receiving the award Professor Flynn said: "I am very proud and humbled by this award, I feel the panel have recognised the achievements of Heriot-Watt University, its partners and talented team of researchers. Heriot-Watt receiving this prestigious recognition from Interface, whose principals of promoting collaboration and inspiration in innovation align with our values, is something that we all take great pride in."

Dr Siobhán Jordan, Director of Interface, said: “I always really enjoy the Scottish Knowledge Exchange Awards which are now in their fifth year. Not only do we celebrate the achievements of the businesses we’ve helped match with academic expertise, this unique ceremony showcases the immense talent and expertise in colleges and universities working with industry, which enable sustainable and inclusive economic growth and job creation.

“The pioneering individuals and R&D partnerships recognised at the Awards have brought huge benefits and impacts which ripple locally, regionally and globally to truly drive industry-led innovation.”

Ivan McKee, MSP, Minister for Trade, Investment and Innovation, presented the awards.

He said: “I’d like to congratulate all the nominees and winners who have been recognised for their outstanding work at the Scottish Knowledge Exchange Awards.

“Not only do these awards celebrate activities and projects happening all over Scotland, they bring people together and create new collaborations and partnerships. Their innovation plays a crucial role in boosting productivity and creating sustainable economic growth for the country.”

 

Susan Kerr

Communications Officer

T: 0131 451 3242

E: susan.kerr@hw.ac.uk