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A Night of Science and Engineering: Queen Mary showcases cutting-edge research and innovation

Faculty of Science and Engineering  Centre for Advanced Robotics  Centre for Biodiversity and Sustainability  Centre for Bioengineering  Centre for Brain and Behaviour  Centre for Chemical Research  Centre for Combinatorics, Algebra and Number Theory  Centre for Complex Systems  Centre for Electronics  Centre for Evolutionary and Functional Genomics  Centre for Experimental and Applied Physics  Centre for Fundamental Computer Science  Centre for Fundamental Physics  Centre for Geometry, Analysis and Gravitation  Centre for Human-Centred Computing  Centre for Intelligent Transport  Centre for Molecular Cell Biology  Centre for Multimodal AI  Centre for Networks, Communications and Systems  Centre for Probability, Statistics and Data Science  Centre for Sustainable Engineering 

3 March 2024

Guests at the Night of Science and Engineering
Guests at the Night of Science and Engineering

Queen Mary University of London held its second annual Night of Science and Engineering last evening at the university's Octagon venue.

The event brought together over 200 leading industry partners, researchers, academics, policymakers, and the public, for an evening of exploration, engagement, and celebration of Queen Mary's Faculty of Science and Engineering, displaying cutting-edge research addressing global challenges.

Interactive stands invited guests on an immersive journey through the forefront of science and engineering. From exploring the intricacies of quantum computing to witnessing the fight against antimicrobial resistance, the event offered a glimpse into Queen Mary's impactful research across diverse fields. Guests experienced firsthand how the university is addressing critical issues like sustainable energy solutions, innovative mobility, and advancements in healthcare and biodiversity.

Professor Colin Bailey, President and Principal of Queen Mary University of London, expressed his pride in the Faculty's achievements and the collaborative spirit of the event.

"The Night of Science and Engineering exemplifies Queen Mary's commitment to building, growing and strengthening our partnerships." Professor Bailey said. "We really value our partners across industry, academia, policy, the third sector and of course our local community: they truly enable us to turn our ambitious goals into reality and ensure our research excellence translates into global impact."

In his welcome speech, Professor Wen Wang, Principal of the Faculty of Science and Engineering, highlighted the importance of partnerships in fostering innovation: "This event is truly dedicated to you, our valued partners," said Professor Wang. "Your collaboration, support, and engagement have been essential to turning our ambitions into reality."

The event also served as a platform to celebrate Queen Mary's recent achievements, such as the university's significant research funding, including a £1.23 million grant for an AI decision-making research hub.

Professor Karen Salt, Trusted Research and Innovation Portfolio Director within UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), sent a pre-recorded keynote address, in which she highlighted collaboration and diversity as key drivers for scientific progress. She delivered a powerful message, stressing the importance of fostering "an environment where great ideas flourish, where people can be their authentic selves, respected, nurtured, and empowered to reach their full potential." Professor Salt, though unable to attend in person, expressed her confidence that the showcase would clearly demonstrate how Queen Mary embodies these very principles.

The event concluded with a networking reception, where guests had the opportunity to connect with researchers, industry leaders, and fellow guests. Professor Wang's closing remarks emphasised the faculty's commitment to building a brighter future: "We believe that together, we can forge a future that is brighter, smarter, and more sustainable," he said. "Tonight's event has been a fantastic opportunity to showcase our research and engage with our partners in making this vision a reality."

Updated by: Jennifer Morgan