The University of Aberdeen and Robert Gordon University joined forces recently for an annual event showcasing industry-focused engineering research and postgraduate programmes.

'An Opportunity for Industry' gives representatives from the local energy sector the chance to find out more about industry-related research projects being undertaken by students at both universities, who came together for the event with the Energy Institute (EI) Aberdeen Highland and Island Branch.

Thirty postgraduate MSc students from both universities displayed display posters outlining their research projects - all of which are relevant to industry, and many of which have been produced in response to a company's specific need.

Denis Pinto, Vice Chairman of the Energy Institute Aberdeen Highlands and Islands Branch explains: "Some of the brightest young minds of the future are applying their research to current problems in the sector and are keen for those within the industry to view first-hand what they are capable of, and see how they could benefit from the findings."


Professor Paul Mitchell, Director of Postgraduate Programmes in the School of Engineering at the University of Aberdeen said: "For the universities, this event is an excellent opportunity to showcase our postgraduate programmes in energy, particularly focusing on showing our colleagues in industry how they can contribute to student projects through placements and other ideas."

Grant Maxwell, Associate Head of RGU's School of Engineering said: "At RGU we pride ourselves in our involvement and interaction with industry, in addition to delivering pertinent course content that relates to current demands. The display of projects from students demonstrates what they can bring to the sector and how everyone involved can benefit mutually."

Principal supporter of this event is Nexen Petroleum, and Ray Riddoch, Manager for Planning and Performance, gave the keynote address. The event was also supported by: Shell, Optima Solutions, subsea 7, the University of Aberdeen and Robert Gordon University, and included input from ‘Making the Most of Masters', a Scottish Funding Council project which has been working closely with the University of Aberdeen's masters programmes and the Energy Institute to organise this event.

(GK)