Expert Panel Formed by Russell Group to Guide Universities in Advancing UK Industrial Strategy

Expert Panel Formed by Russell Group to Guide Universities in Advancing UK Industrial Strategy

(IN BRIEF) The Russell Group has established an expert advisory panel to enhance the role of UK research-intensive universities in supporting the government’s Industrial Strategy. This initiative aims to maximize the contribution of universities to economic growth and public service enhancement. The panel includes prominent members such as former Secretary of State Greg Clark, NatWest’s Jen Tippin, and GSK’s Dr. Robert Scott, among others. Chaired by Stuart Croft, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Warwick, the panel will provide recommendations to strengthen university-business collaborations. The announcement coincides with the release of the “Future Ready” report, highlighting how universities are already partnering with various sectors in key areas like healthcare and clean energy. The Chancellor of the Exchequer is expected to detail a new Industrial Strategy alongside the upcoming Budget. Croft emphasized that these institutions are vital for fostering economic resilience and driving advancements through public and private sector collaboration.

(PRESS RELEASE) LONDON, 10-Oct-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — The Russell Group, representing a coalition of research-intensive universities, has officially established an expert advisory panel aimed at enhancing the role of higher education in supporting the UK government’s Industrial Strategy. This initiative comes as part of a broader effort to maximize the contribution of universities to economic growth and public service enhancement.

Among the distinguished panel members announced are former Secretary of State Greg Clark, NatWest Group’s Group Chief Operating Officer Jen Tippin, Lucy Yu, CEO of the Centre for Net Zero at Octopus Energy, Dr. Robert Scott, Vice President of Human Genetics and Genomics at GSK, and Dr. Arnab Basu, CEO of university spinout Kromek. These members bring a wealth of experience from various sectors, including academia and industry.

Chaired by Stuart Croft, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Warwick, the panel’s mission is to craft recommendations for universities, government, and industry stakeholders that will amplify the influence of university research and development on economic progress and public services.

The announcement coincides with the release of “Future Ready,” a report by the Russell Group that outlines how research-intensive universities are already collaborating with businesses and the public sector in critical areas such as health care, clean energy, and economic resilience.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer is anticipated to unveil further details regarding a new Industrial Strategy in conjunction with the Budget later this month.

Stuart Croft emphasized the importance of research-intensive universities as a national asset. “These institutions are pivotal in fostering the economic growth and resilience required in the UK. They serve as essential links between public and private investment, driving advancements in both sectors,” he stated.

He added, “Evaluating our current partnerships and fostering new ones will be key to unlocking the full potential of the Industrial Strategy. The insights provided by our panel will guide universities in optimizing their collaborations with business, while also equipping the government with actionable reform options to bolster the UK’s competitive edge in vital sectors such as AI, data, health, and cleantech.”

The panel comprises leaders recognized for their contributions in business, politics, research, and innovation. Their expertise will be instrumental in shaping an Industrial Strategy that effectively supports the UK’s growth trajectory.

To read the comprehensive report titled “Future Ready: The Role of Research-Intensive Universities in an Innovation-Led Industrial Strategy,” click here.

Note: Confirmed members of the advisory group include Stuart Croft (Chair), Greg Clark, Lucy Yu, Dr. Robert Scott, and Dr. Arnab Basu. A report from London Economics, commissioned by the Russell Group and published in February 2024, revealed that the 24 universities within the group contribute nearly £38 billion to the UK economy through research and innovation. Additionally, start-ups and spin-outs accounted for £17.8 billion in economic impact and supported 254,000 jobs across the UK in 2021-22.

Media Contacts:

Adam Clarke
adam.clarke@russellgroup.ac.uk
020 3816 1302

Laura Peatman
laura.peatman@russellgroup.ac.uk
020 3816 1318

Policy Enquiries:

Sarah Stevens
director.policy@russellgroup.ac.uk
020 3816 1306

Charlotte Kelly
charlotte.kelly@russellgroup.ac.uk

SOURCE: Russell Group

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