Third wave of the UK’s science and innovation audits published

8 Mar 2019 05:02 PM

The latest wave of science and innovation audits were recently (08 March 2019) published, highlighting the UK's scientific and research strengths across the country.

Wave 3 of the science and innovation audits (SIAs) were recently (08 March 2019) published, which have identified a number of strengths in different industries across the country. From the marine economy in the Highlands of Scotland to Steel Innovation in South Wales, the SIAs have boosted the country’s understanding of the UK’s scientific and research strengths and the commercial opportunities that exist in different regions.

Science and innovation audits: wave 3 summary reports

Opportunities to enhance both industry and research were identified through the SIA process. These include integrating digital technologies into manufacturing processes in the North East to enhance long-term UK competitiveness; and a proposal to develop a ‘living lab’ with Heathrow communities, businesses and experts in ‘connected and automated vehicles’ (CAV) to explore solutions for sustainable airports.

Universities and Science Minister Chris Skidmore recently said:

We are world-leaders across a range of science and research disciplines, and the SIAs published today show the whole nation contributes to that reputation.

From boosting our cyber security strengths in Worcestershire to improving the sustainability of airports led by Brunel University London, we have much to be proud about and we are committed to building on these strengths and others in our modern Industrial Strategy.

The 12 consortia that have published their SIAs are:

The science and innovation audits are an important element of the Place foundation in the modern Industrial Strategy that seeks to ensure the UK’s cities, towns and rural areas reach their full potential. The audits, undertaken by universities, businesses, local enterprise partnerships (LEPs) and others, reveal distinct local and regional strengths and opportunities for collaboration across the UK.