Minister commends Keele’s work with science, technology, and innovation sectors

A government minister has commended Keele’s work in the science, technology, and innovation sector, and its work with local businesses during a recent visit to North Staffordshire. 

Sir Chris Bryant, Minister of State at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, met University leaders and business leaders in the University’s Innovation Centre 7 building during his visit, learning more about the advanced digital facilities in the building and how they enable  digital businesses to innovate, as well as supporting research in fields such as energy systems and  astrophysics. 

The Minister’s visit was part of a wider visit to Newcastle-under-Lyme with local MP Adam Jogee, to learn more about work going on in the area in the science, technology, and innovation sectors.  

As well as the visit to Keele to meet with businesses based here and learn more about the University’s research, the Minister also visited the New Vic and Brampton Museum during his visit to the region. 

Ann Pittard, Director of Engagement and Partnerships at Keele University, said: “Universities have a hugely important role to play in helping emerging industries to thrive, and create the high-quality jobs areas like ours need. The University’s Science & Innovation Park provides a great environment to foster innovation, and we look forward to expanding our work with industry partners over the coming years.” 

Professor Raphael Hirschi, Director of Keele’s Digital Society Institute, added: “When Keele’s Digital Society Institute was formed in 2022, we were determined that we would use the latest digital technologies and AI to advance both fundamental research as well as work hand in hand with industry partners to lead the way towards sustainable futures, a key mission of Keele. I am pleased that we have been able to showcase how we lead the way on renewable energy generation and storage as well as showcase our fundamental research in astrophysics.”