University partnerships

Marking the official launch of the scheme, the company signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Heriot-Watt University. Edinburgh based Heriot-Watt University has a well-established reputation for the quality of its teaching and applied research in science, engineering and technology. The first research project to be established under the partnership will focus on developing an advanced computer software package that will control and reduce gases required during the welding process, helping to reduce both costs and environmental impact. A further three university partners are to be named over the next 12 months.

The initiative is part of BAE Systems’ continued drive to invest in high-end research and skills, which are vital not only to its own business as a leading global defence player and UK’s largest employer of engineers, but also to the long-term competitiveness of the wider UK economy.

The collaborations will include investment in long-term research projects as well as programmes to apply new technological solutions to the design, build and support of naval ships and their engineering systems. Under the agreements, BAE Systems will provide industrial placements for students and guest lecturers. Both partners will also offer continuous professional development opportunities for employees and reciprocal secondments to strengthen the relationships between academia and industry.