Universities Minister Chris Skidmore at Durham University
Universities Minister Chris Skidmore praised the research and innovation taking place at Durham University during a high-profile visit on Friday 24 January.
During a two-hour visit, Mr Skidmore saw several examples of research, innovation and new technology being developed at Durham University.
Mr Skidmore said it had been a “fantastic opportunity” to visit Durham University and that talking with TechUp representatives was “really inspiring”.
He made a speech to over 100 staff, students and leaders from business, industry and the public sector, in which he emphasised the importance of investment in research and development in the North East.
Mr Skidmore spoke about “levelling up” research and development so that it benefits every corner of the UK and challenged universities: “Just how far does your imagination stretch?”
Among the guests for Mr Skidmore’s speech was Arnab Basu, CEO of Kromek Group, Kromek was formed in 2003 to exploit technology developed at Durham University’s Department of Physics, where Dr Basu completed his PhD.
Dr Basu said: “Kromek started as a spin-out from Durham University in 2003 and we continue to work closely with the University at many levels. Over recent years we have particularly focussed on collaborations in the area of data and computing involving machine learning and artificial intelligence. We consider the University to be an important partner as we continue to develop world-class technology solutions for our customers around the world.”
Universities Minister Chris Skidmore at Durham University
Full text of Mr Skidmore’s speech at Durham University
The full text of Mr Skidmore’s speech at Durham University is available here: https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/levelling-up-research-and-innovation-right-across-the-united-kingdom
