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SEPnet stands for South East Physics Network. The six partners work together to promote excellence in physics. They are the physics departments of the Universities of Kent, Queen Mary, Royal Holloway, Southampton, Surrey and Sussex.

The network is supported by a five-year HEFCE grant of £12.5 million. Its four main initiatives are:

• an outreach programme to increase student enrolment in physics
• the development of a graduate school offering a two-year MSc in physics based on the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS)
• a collaborative research programme at PhD level
• an undergraduate programme of employer engagement to increase career prospects.

Matched funding for these initiatives will be provided over the next seven years by the universities and partner organisations.

Sir William said:

'As a physicist by training, having taken both my first and higher degrees in physics, I am both honoured and delighted to chair this important partnership of university physics departments.

'The national review of physics that I conducted for the Government a year ago showed us that UK physics enjoys excellent international standing and that the role of physics and physicists is vital for other disciplines. However, for the future of physics to be assured, there is a strong need for universities to work collaboratively.

'The SEPnet consortium will play a key role over the next five years in maintaining continued world-class strength in physics across south-east England. Physics is a strategically important subject for the UK economy and its science base, and this unique regional grouping offers an unparalleled combined excellence in the discipline.'

David Sweeney, Director at HEFCE for Research, Innovation and Skills, said:

'We warmly welcome Sir William's appointment as Chair of SEPnet. Since it was set up last year the six universities have demonstrated that by working together they can achieve greater levels of activity by building on the strengths of the individual departments. Under Sir William's leadership we look forward to SEPnet continuing to strengthen and broaden the contribution of physics in the south-east through both research and the development of highly skilled students.'

For further information please contact:
Roger Grinyer at HEFCE 0117 931 7307
Sarah Watts at the University of Southampton, 023 8059 3807