Queen’s University Belfast Engages UK Policymakers on Innovation Priorities
On 10 December 2025, Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) hosted a high‑profile event at Westminster that showcased the university’s leading research in advanced manufacturing, clean energy, digital technologies and life sciences. The gathering, attended by more than 100 politicians and policy makers, was part of a broader series of parliamentary showcases aimed at linking academic expertise with the UK Government’s Modern Industrial Strategy.
Aligning Research with the Modern Industrial Strategy
The UK’s 10‑year Modern Industrial Strategy (2025‑2035) seeks to position the country as the most attractive destination for investment, innovation and growth. QUB’s presentation highlighted how its research portfolio directly supports key pillars of the strategy, including:
- Advanced manufacturing – Development of next‑generation production techniques that increase efficiency and reduce waste.
- Clean energy – Innovations in renewable technologies and energy storage that help the UK become a clean‑energy superpower.
- Digital technologies – Breakthroughs in AI, data analytics and cybersecurity that underpin digital transformation across sectors.
- Life sciences – Cutting‑edge research in biotechnology and medical devices that drive health‑sector innovation.
Key Takeaways from the Westminster Showcase
During the event, QUB experts engaged in round‑table discussions with senior government officials, including Parliamentary Under‑Secretary for Northern Ireland Matthew Patrick and Chair of the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee Tonia Antoniazzi. The dialogue focused on translating research outcomes into actionable policy and commercial opportunities.
- Research‑to‑Market Pathways – QUB demonstrated how its advanced manufacturing labs are collaborating with local manufacturers to prototype and scale new production methods.
- Policy‑Driven Funding – The university outlined funding models that align with government priorities, ensuring that research investments yield measurable economic returns.
- Regional Innovation Hubs – QUB positioned Northern Ireland as a testbed for scalable solutions that can be replicated across the UK, leveraging the region’s interconnectedness.
Implications for Industry and Academia
For industry leaders, the Westminster event underscored the tangible benefits of partnering with QUB. Companies can tap into the university’s expertise to accelerate product development, reduce time‑to‑market, and access a talent pipeline of graduates trained in the latest technologies.
Academic researchers, meanwhile, gained insights into how policy frameworks can be shaped to support innovation ecosystems. The dialogue highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, combining engineering, data science, and business strategy to address complex challenges.
How QUB Supports the UK’s Growth Mission
Professor Sir Ian Greer, President and Vice‑Chancellor of QUB, emphasized the university’s role as a “field leader” in digital technology and advanced manufacturing. He noted that Northern Ireland’s unique position allows for rapid diffusion of new ideas, creating scalable models that can be adopted nationwide.
“Through our Westminster engagement, we’ve demonstrated how Queen’s can directly support the UK Government Growth Mission,” Greer said. “Our research excellence translates into real‑world solutions that drive economic growth and policy priorities.”
Next Steps for Stakeholders
Policymakers, industry partners, and researchers are encouraged to build on the momentum generated by the Westminster showcase. Potential actions include:
- Initiating joint research projects that align with the Modern Industrial Strategy.
- Exploring funding opportunities through the UK’s innovation grants and QUB’s commercialisation pathways.
- Engaging with QUB’s Knowledge Transfer Partnerships to bring academic breakthroughs into the marketplace.
Take Action: Leverage QUB’s Expertise for Your Organisation
Whether you are a manufacturing firm looking to adopt advanced production techniques, a renewable energy startup seeking cutting‑edge research, or a policy team aiming to shape innovation policy, QUB offers a range of resources and partnerships to support your objectives.
- Explore QUB’s research expertise and identify potential collaboration opportunities.
- Learn about commercialisation pathways that can accelerate the transition from lab to market.
- Engage in a Knowledge Transfer Partnership to bring academic solutions to your business.
Get Involved Today
To take advantage of QUB’s research capabilities, consider the following steps:
- Submit your application to a relevant research programme or partnership.
- Schedule a free consultation with QUB’s industry liaison team to discuss potential collaborations.
- Contact the university’s communications office for more information on policy engagement opportunities.
By aligning with QUB’s research excellence, organisations can contribute to the UK’s industrial growth while driving innovation in advanced manufacturing, clean energy, digital technologies and life sciences.
Further Reading and Resources
For additional insights into how universities can drive economic growth, explore the following articles:
- QUB Strengthens Strategic Partnerships in China
- Law Graduate Visits US Congress
- Graduate Finds Healing in Belfast
Have questions or want to discuss potential collaborations? Write to us today.
Submit your application today to join QUB’s vibrant research community and help shape the future of advanced manufacturing and clean energy.
