Science in Wales
Wales has had a National Assembly since 1999, and in November 2006 the Welsh Assembly Government unveiled the first Science Policy for Wales. This focuses on the three main strands of health, low carbon energy systems and enabling sustained economic and social renewal. In 2011 a new science policy for Wales is being developed which will cover the current range of research and development being carried out in Wales, along with skills provision, HE excellence and technology transfer.
The Welsh Assembly Government actively supports innovation through its Technology and Innovation team, and initiatives such as Grants for Innovation which is designed to support businesses in their research and development strategies.
Sustainable Development
“Sustainable development is not an option that will go away – it is the only way forward.” Right Hon Rhodri Morgan AM, First Minister for Wales.
Sustainable development is a priority area in Wales, and is one of the research and development strengths of the country. From environmental design to alternative energy sources, Wales is at the forefront of innovation in this field. The Low Carbon Research Institute (LCRI), established in 2008, represents a consortium of Welsh University departments committed to such aims www.lcri.org.uk.
Industry-Academia collaboration
Wales has a network of world class research centres with a track record for successful collaboration with industry. These Centres of Excellence for Technology and Industrial Collaboration carry out a wide range of research, from marine sciences to advanced software systems.
Universities / Research Centres
Glyndŵr University (NE Wales Institute)
Swansea Metropolitan University
University of Wales -Trinity Saint David
University of Wales Institute Cardiff
Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT)
Techniums
Technium is a network of innovation centres where companies can access technical, financial and research expertise. There are currently four Techniums in Wales:
Technium Swansea
Technium OpTIC – St Asaph
Technium Digital - Swansea
Technium Springboard - Cwmbran
National Science Academy, Wales
In 2010 a National Science Academy was established to promote the take up of science, technology, engineering and mathematics subjects. The Academy
covers all of Wales with four regional hubs and one centrepoint based at Swansea University’s Wales Institute of Mathematics and Computational Science.
www.learningobservatory.com/the-national-science-academy/
Useful websites
Higher Education Funding Council for Wales
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