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Science & Innovation Annual Report 2004-2005
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Foreword By Dr Ian Pearson MP
Science and innovation are The Science and Innovation Network works with government 1 moving up government departments, businesses and academia, all of whom share an agendas throughout the interest in international science.The Network promotes the world. Science underpins our response to international UK as partner of choice for research and development and Dr Ian Pearson MP concerns such as climate inward investment in science and technology. It helps facilitate change, energy security, international trade in the high technology sectors. It adds infectious diseases, economic governance and sustainable value to UK science policy, and uses science to underpin development. It is central to our foreign policy. international policy.
This Government is committed to making UK science and innovation among the best in the world.The Foreign and The Network fosters international research by bringing UK Commonwealth Office (FCO) Science and Innovation scientists, students and funding bodies together with their Network, which is deployed in a wide range of leading science counterparts from other countries. Science officers work nations, takes forward our international plans for with their commercial colleagues overseas and Department strengthening UK science.As the Minister responsible for science within the FCO, I will be participating in a new of Trade and Industry to identify new and emerging Cabinet committee on Science, Innovation and the technologies and encourage collaboration between Knowledge Economy as part of this process. businesses. In the last year, with partners including the British Council, we have launched two new campaigns: UK-China In the last year, the FCO has worked on several high-profile Partners in Science (2005) and UK-Singapore Partners in international scientific issues.We contributed to an Science (2004).These build on the success of the UK Science assessment of better ways to integrate science and technology into the UN system in order to predict and & Technology for a New World campaign in North America respond to natural disasters in the wake of the Indian Ocean (page 7). tsunami.We helped bring a lively United Nations debate on human reproductive cloning to a satisfactory conclusion that Britain’s excellence in the field of science is a powerful tool allows the UK to continue with its stem cell research programme.We worked to ensure that science played an for projecting Britain as a creative, dynamic and important role in delivering Britain’s G8 Presidency priorities: technologically advanced nation, open and ready for business. climate change, and tackling poverty and governance in Africa. This report presents our main activities this year.
“The great challenges for the coming century are ones where global science and international policy need to come together: poverty; climate change; sustainable development; the spread of HIV and Aids; the access to secure and reliable energy supplies which our economies need.” “…the United Kingdom’s success, at home and internationally, crucially depends on the success of our science, and on our place in global scientific collaboration.” Jack Straw, Foreign Secretary Britain’s leading role in global science, March 2005 S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:34 AM Page 2
Contents
2 Page ● FCO Science & Innovation Network ...... 3 Introduction ...... 3 Regional Conferences ...... 6 ● Public Diplomacy Campaigns...... 7 North America – UK Science and Technology for a New World ...... 7 UK-China Partners in Science ...... 9 UK-Singapore Partners in Science ...... 11 ● Science and the Global Economy – Country Profiles...... 13 Brazil ...... 14 Canada ...... 16 United States ...... 19 Australia ...... 23 China ...... 24 India ...... 26 Japan ...... 30 Singapore ...... 33 South Korea ...... 35 Taiwan...... 38 Czech Republic ...... 40 Denmark ...... 42 France...... 44 Germany...... 47 Italy ...... 50 Netherlands ...... 52 Poland...... 55 Russia ...... 57 Sweden ...... 60 Switzerland...... 63 Israel ...... 66 South Africa ...... 68
● Science and the international priorities...... 71
● Annex 1 – Science & Innovation Network Posts ...... 81
● Annex 2 – Network profiles ...... 82
● Annex 3 – Contact details...... 100 S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:34 AM Page 3
FCO Science & Innovation Network Introduction
● The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) Science and Security of UK global energy supplies, including climate 3 Innovation Network includes 44 UK posts in 29 partner change countries and territories, most of which have dedicated Science & Technology (S&T) officers (Annex 1, page 81).The ● Security and good governance of the UK’s Overseas Science and Innovation Group (SIG) in London manages the Territories Network and advises on science issues for the FCO. Following an internal reorganisation the Group is now part of Our work has four main themes: Economic Policy Directorate. ● Science Policy – informing UK developments and Science contributes to the delivery of all the UK’s securing international influence by drawing on UK science International Strategic Priorities, with particular focus on and models of best practice. promoting UK economic interests (Strategic Priority 5). ● Science Collaboration – promoting the UK as the ● A world safer from global terrorism and weapons of mass partner of choice and attracting overseas expertise. destruction ● Science for Wealth Creation – facilitating trade and ● Protection of the UK from illegal immigration, drug inward investment and contributing towards the UK trafficking and other international crime knowledge economy.
● An international system based on the rule of law, which is ● Science for Public Diplomacy – projecting the UK as better able to resolve disputes and prevent conflicts a creative, dynamic, technologically advanced nation.
● An effective EU in a secure neighbourhood We work in close partnership with the Office of Science and Technology (OST),Treasury, Department of Trade and ● Promotion of UK interests in an open and Industry (DTI), UK Trade and Investment (UKTI), British expanding global economy Council, Research Councils, Royal Society and other bodies to take forward the UK’s science interests overseas. ● Sustainable development, underpinned by democracy, good governance and human rights S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:34 AM Page 4
4 Science and Innovation Policy Committee (CSAC). Ian Pearson, Minister of State for Trade, who is responsible for science at the FCO, attends the In March 2005, Jack Straw, Foreign Secretary, delivered a Cabinet committee on Science, Innovation and the speech entitled ‘Britain’s leading role in global science’ at the Knowledge Economy. Royal Society.The speech sent out a powerful message to Network Performance policy-makers, academics, industrialists and investors about the Government’s commitment to science and innovation, Heads of Mission (HoM) from 14 Network posts attended a and the increasing importance of science to UK foreign focus group on Science and Strategic Priorities at the FCO policy. Leadership Conference in January 2005. HoMs looked at how to better focus science work according to the strengths and The Network provides Government with an international opportunities of their host countries.The event reinforced perspective on UK science policy.The FCO participates in the importance of science in international relations and gave a two Whitehall science committees,the Global Science and fresh mandate to integrate science within UK foreign policy. Innovation Forum (GSIF) and the Chief Scientific Advisers
Foreign Secretary Jack Straw, Lord May (President of the Royal Society) and Fiona Clouder Richards (Head of Science and Innovation, FCO), March 2005. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:34 AM Page 5
The FCO Global Opportunities Fund (GOF) aligns with the Customer Relations 5 FCO Strategy, and now provides an additional resource for science projects. One of the main objectives of the new GOF A customer survey exercise completed in summer 2004 Economic Governance Programme is to promote science and confirmed that the Network is adding value to the UK’s innovation collaboration by developing and adopting new international science work across the main themes. technologies and forming new alliances with priority Comments from customers show that the Network emerging markets and developed countries. continues to:
Recruitment,Training and Briefing ● Provide comprehensive reporting on science in different countries. The recruitment of new S&T officers in Beijing, Shanghai, Osaka,Atlanta, Canberra and Guangzhou completes the ● Provide expert input on policies that could be applied in planned expansion of the Network. Science and Innovation the UK. Group organised comprehensive programmes of calls for each of these staff. In addition, we ran two Briefing Tours for ● Be an important component of horizon scanning activities locally engaged officers, and helped with an advanced tour of for academics and industry. the North-West and Scotland for officers based in America.
Three Regional Conferences also took place throughout the ● Play a fundamental role in developing and strengthening year (see page 6). links overseas.
“The briefing tour gave me a fresh perspective on our role as a ● Provide excellent support in setting up high-level S&T officer. Meeting face to face with the stakeholders gave us a meetings and bilateral interactions. much clearer understanding of their requirements.” S&T officer, June 2004 ● Assist with finding leads and supporting inward investment. The Network’s intranet, STNet, continues to provide a good way for communicating across the Network.We are ● Provide knowledge of government, people and improving the briefing material by producing a series of mini organisations for planning overseas initiatives. briefs that provide a snapshot on hot-science topics. External UK stakeholders now have access to the site. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:34 AM Page 6
FCO Science & Innovation Network Regional Conferences
6 Europe, London A large amount of public funds has been invested in public diplomacy work in this region over the past 2 years with S&T officers from the European Region met for 3 days in campaigns such as Think UK in China and Innovation UK in London in September 2004. OST briefed officers on Japan, and new campaigns beginning in China, Singapore and European R&D Policy and the EU Framework Programme India. Officers recognised the need for sharper focus when (FP). Officers then discussed best practice and UK planning routine public diplomacy work and larger campaigns stakeholder activities, with presentations on the British especially when working with the media. Council’s ZeroCarbonCity campaign, Government Climate Americas, Florida Change and Energy Policies, the Technology Priorities being taken forward by the DTI Technology Strategy Board, and the S&T officers from the Americas Region met in the US in expansion of the DTI Global Watch Service. March 2004 to share best practice, confirm priorities for the new Financial Year, and agree how to approach forthcoming Officers also attended the Govnet Public Services Summit on activities.The North America Public Diplomacy Campaign – Science and Innovation for briefing on the Treasury’s 10-year ‘UK S&T for a New World’ – was a major feature of this Investment Framework, the Micro and Nanotechnology Conference with discussion on how future public diplomacy Network, science and society, and knowledge transfer. work should support S&T priorities. Officers also discussed Asia-Pacific, Beijing how encouraging research collaboration with the Americas contributes to UK economic prosperity. The 2-day Asia-Pacific Conference took place in China in December 2004. It provided S&T officers from this dynamic The US continues to lead the world in innovation, science and region with an opportunity to discuss ways of forging technology, through federal and state funding and policies that research collaborations, the UK Government science agenda, encourage cutting edge research.The S&T officers looked at foreign policy developments in London, public diplomacy and how they could strengthen co-operation with partners such working with colleagues.The conference also explored ways as UK Trade and Investment (UKTI), the new Public Affairs of achieving a greater synergy across the region. Team based at the British Embassy in Washington, British Council and British Defence Staff. Discussions focussed on Asia offers enticing long-term collaboration prospects to UK the US S&T Network priority themes for 2005: climate high-tech companies and research institutions. Officers change and energy security, regenerative medicine, the discussed how to overcome obstacles and evaluate their knowledge economy and science for security. work in forging science partnerships. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:34 AM Page 7
Public Diplomacy Campaigns
North America – UK Science & Technology for a New World
● This was a bold and exciting £1 million initiative in the United Internal communication between the Embassy/High 7 States and Canada jointly led and funded by the FCO and the Commission, British Council, UKTI and Consulates- British Council, to promote a modern, dynamic image of the General were strengthened. UK among North Americans by highlighting UK S&T advancements. Projects were designed to showcase British ● Staff skills in working with the media, event design and innovation and willingness to collaborate in S&T,specifically in management, and marketing improved. the biotechnology, and energy & environment sectors.A marketing communications strategy supplemented events with a website, printed materials, and media outreach intended to create a multiplying effect to maximize impact and reach our target audiences.
The campaign’s achievements include:
● People attending events developed a greater appreciation of UK S&T strengths.
● Awareness of collaboration and investment opportunities increased, and a number of potential collaborations and inward investments evolved.
● Students came away with a positive impression of the UK as a place to study and undertake research.
● Coverage of UK S&T innovations and achievements in the US and Canadian media (especially trade press) increased.
● Existing relationships with partner organisations and individuals in the US, Canada and the UK were Jack Straw talks about the role of science in foreign policy, Howard strengthened, and new collaborations were established. University,Washington. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:34 AM Page 8
Martin Uden (Consul General), Sir Richard Sykes, Lord Sainsbury and David Chiswell (Chair of the BioIndustry Association) at BIO2004. 8
Highlights
Globe 2004,Vancouver, March-April 2004 – The energy and environment theme of this conference provided a good opportunity to promote UK excellence in low carbon buildings. Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin visited the UK Pavilion to meet David Reddaway, British High Commissioner. Foreign Secretary, Jack Straw, and Colin Powell, former US Secretary of The UK presence also included a 1000sq foot UK Pavilion in State sharing a moment at Howard University,Washington. the exhibit hall, a ministerial discussion on sustainability, a media lunch, and a reception hosted by the Consul-General in Vancouver.
Speech by Foreign Secretary Jack Straw at Howard BIO 2004, San Francisco – The largest ever international University,Washington DC, May 2004. The Foreign biotechnology convention attracted 17,000 participants, Secretary’s speech Global Science for our Common Future including a significant British presence.Visits from UK Science promoted UK scientific excellence, and highlighted the need Minister Lord Sainsbury and Rector of Imperial College Sir for international collaboration to address global challenges. Richard Sykes generated some significant press coverage.The The Foreign Secretary was introduced by US Secretary of Campaign Team organised a reception, a seminar to promote State Colin Powell, who stressed the strong relationship British biotechnology, and an Industry Briefing course. between the UK and the US and their shared strong commitment to science. Stem Cell Symposia in San Francisco and Los Angeles – With the passage of Proposition 71 in the US authorising BioHouston Commercialisation Symposium, May 2004 – expenditure of $3 billion over the next 10 years and the The Houston life sciences community held its second annual founding of the California Institute of Regenerative BioHouston Commercialisation Symposium on 19 May, at the Medicine, these symposia gave the UK a prime opportunity Jones Business School, Rice University.The event attracted to promote itself as the partner of choice for California in over 150 senior attendees. regenerative medicine. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:34 AM Page 9
Public Diplomacy Campaigns
UK-China Partners in Science
This public diplomacy initiative to promote collaboration Highlights 9 between the UK and China in science and technology was proposed under the China Task Force, and is funded by OST, ● The programme started in January with Lord Sainsbury, the FCO, the British Council and private companies.The Minister for Science and Innovation, opening the 2-day campaign will include over 100 events organised by the UK-China High Tech Forum for over 300 delegates in Science and Innovation Network and the British Council Beijing. Participants from UK universities and companies around China throughout 2005. met leading Chinese scientists, technologists and officials in fields such as cancer research, renewable energy, The campaign aims to promote awareness of leading edge knowledge transfer and venture capital.The number and British science and technology in China, especially among seniority of delegates from both countries signalled a step scientists, technical specialists and science, engineering and change in UK-China science and technology relations, and technology (SET) officials. It also aims to provide the UK with prompted China’s highest circulation English language more detail about China’s priorities in science and technology newspaper the China Daily to declare that “Britain, China by bringing together research institutions, government unite in hi-tech research” and that “energy, electronics, organisations responsible for science, and high-tech stem cell studies, space and aviation sciences are major companies that may benefit from investment in either fields for scientific co-operation between China and the direction. United Kingdom”.
As part of the campaign, the British Council is leading a programme of events, such as Cafés Scientifiques, to engage a wider audience of educated city-dwellers (aged 16-35). S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:35 AM Page 10
● 10 In Shanghai and Chongqing, British Consulates launched the campaign with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen scientific relations between the UK and these regions of China.
● In March, events throughout China included workshops on food-borne pathogens, nanotechnology, automotive design engineering, biotechnology business, and intelligent transport systems.
● Other events in March included a visit from a UK delegation of flood control experts from the Foresight Programme, and a seminar on science journalism to mark a visit from the Association of British Science Writers, hosted by the Chinese Society for Science and Technology Journalism.
Future events include a conference on climate change, and workshops on plant conservation, hydrogen energy and renewable resources, cancer research, e-science and sustainable development.
More information on UK-China Partners in Science is available from the website (www.uk.cn/science). S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:35 AM Page 11
Public Diplomacy Campaigns
UK-Singapore Partners in Science
This initiative aims to promote UK science, engineering and Royal Launch 11 technology and increase collaboration with Singapore.The campaign has been launched against a drive by Singapore to HRH Prince Andrew, Duke of York,launched the campaign on improve collaborative research with other countries, and a 26 November 2004 at Biopolis – Singapore’s state of the art need to increase the number of Singaporean students biomedical science centre.The launch included the opening studying in the UK, and change Singaporean perceptions of a GSK research laboratory and British High Commission about the UK, especially in the fields of science and invention. S&T office, an exhibition by UK companies and a 4-page supplement in the Straits Times.The launch generated wide Partnership publicity, including major items on TV news channels.
The majority of Singaporeans believe that the image of a Feedback from the launch showed that 68% of invitees were country is an important factor in deciding whether to partner now more likely to do business with, invest in or study in with that country.The High Commission’s strategy is to the UK. position the UK as “modern, creative, relevant and successful”, with the UK as Singapore’s partner of choice for international scientific collaboration.The campaign is working Minister Heng, Prince Andrew, Duke of York, and the British High with a wide range of partners, including British Council, UKTI, Commissioner launching the UK-Singapore Partners in Science Year, British Chamber of Commerce, British companies, November 2004. universities, polytechnics, the Singaporean Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), professional institutions and the Singapore Science Centre.The programme of events is mainly aimed at students, the successor generation (18-35 year olds), researchers and policy makers. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:35 AM Page 12
12 Science stars, workshops and exhibitions and was led by RSC President Dr Simon Campbell. Feedback was excellent and a number of new collaborations have been A key component of the campaign is the Science Stars initiated as a result of the workshop. programme – a range of lectures, Café Scientifiques and press interviews led by leading UK scientists. Our first Science Star The campaign also includes a series of exhibitions to was Dr Mike Howse, Rolls-Royce Director of Engineering and showcase the latest developments in UK S&T. Science on the Technology, and leader of the team that developed the Trent Plaza was enjoyed by over 2,500 visitors who came to hear jet engine. Dick Olver, Chairman of BAE Systems, gave the the Institute of Electrical Engineers (IEE) Faraday Lecture – the inaugural UK-Singapore Partners in Science Distinguished Visitor first time it has been delivered abroad. Sports science Lecture “From Invention to Innovation”. Professor Colin features in an exhibition to accompany presentations by Dr Blakemore, Chief Executive of the Medical Research Council Steve Haake, Sheffield University, at the launch of Engineers (MRC), lectured on “The Plastic Brain”. Year in Singapore.
The workshop series is a vital element of the initiative, bringing together researchers to exchange views on the latest scientific developments and to promote new collaborations.A chemistry workshop “New Challenges for Synthesis for Pharmaceutical Products” was jointly arranged with A*STAR and the Royal Society of Chemistry
Science on the Plaza Exhibition. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:35 AM Page 13
Science and the Global Economy Country Profiles
Strategic Priority 5 – promotion of UK interests in an open and expanding global economy 13
Country Profiles set out how the Science & Innovation Network has contributed towards SP5 under the 4 themes of activity – Science Policy, Science for Wealth Creation, Science Collaboration and Science for Public Diplomacy. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:35 AM Page 14
Brazil São Paulo
14 Country Profile Brazilian scientists Science for non-profit centre for sequenced the coffee information technology, Wealth Creation The Brazilian government genome in 2004.This research, development, and has taken important science country also excels in Biodiesel is raising interest in innovation in ICT.The aim of policy decisions in the past cancer genome research.A commercial and R&D the visit is to establish R&D year.These include the satellite programme, sectors. Brazil has increased links, and set up partnerships approval of limited scientific developed with China, has production of this clean for developing technologies research and therapy using allowed Brazil to enter the source of energy and and products. embryonic stem cells and market of satellite imaging. recently passed a law Science Collaboration the cultivation and sale of allowing the addition of 2% Science Policy GM crops.This indicates an biodiesel to conventional Our work often involves awakened interest within fuel.As a result, we UN discussions on human responding to requests for government in scientific commissioned a mapping cloning prompted lobbying information in areas where research. exercise with the UKTI of the Brazilian government Brazil adds value. During the sector manager for energy to secure support for the last year, our reactive Biotechnology continues to to review the status of UK’s position in favour of reports covered plant grow in this country, which biofuels in Brazil to provide therapeutic cloning, or at genomics for the European has the largest bio-diversity a clearer idea of commercial least for them to adopt a Research Area, surplus on the planet.Another area and scientific opportunities neutral position.As Brazil human tissue, use of of increasing importance is for the UK. was discussing stem cell pesticides, space science and biofuels, where Brazil has research in Congress, the cancer genetics. Proactive been a front-runner since Together with the UKTI government was at first reporting covered Brazilian the 1970’s. UKTI colleagues sector manager for reluctant to commit itself science policy issues and are looking at areas of Information and internationally.Active events, such as the possible co-operation Communications Technology lobbying by the Embassy led sequencing of the coffee between UK and Brazilian (ICT), we are organising a to Brazil’s support for the plant and subsequent scientists in this sector. visit to the UK from the UK position. creation of a gene database. Brazil is a world leader in university spin-off CESAR, a agribusiness research – S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:35 AM Page 15
In January 2004, the As a result of the visit, FINEP genomics.This was followed We produced a joint 15 European Community and is now exploring specific by a debate with two leading folder on science Brazil signed a scientific and areas of co-operation with Brazilians, which attracted partnerships between technological co-operation the DTI. significant and positive press the UK and Brazil, hosted a agreement. Since then, coverage, given the Brazilian UK information booth with Brazilian institutions such as Science for Public debate on regulation of computer access to Culture FINEP (Innovation Agency) Diplomacy stem cell research and Lab, and sponsored four UK and the Ministry for Science therapeutic cloning. speakers. It was our first and Technology, in In June 2004, Sir John participation in a big public partnership with the Sulston, leader of the UK In April 2005 we took diplomacy event. European Commission office part of the Human Genome part in the 4th Science Centre in Brazil, have hosted a Project, visited Brazil. He World Congress, series of events to promote gave a presentation on the in collaboration with multilateral research ethical issues linked with the British Council. partnerships.We have Sir John Sulston monitored these, looking out (Nobel Prize for opportunities involving Laureate 2002) Brazil and the UK. visited Brazil in June 2004, and gave a lecture In June 2004, the UK entitled Embassy in Brazil invited “Genome: Ethics Dr Sergio Rezende, and Intellectual Property in president of FINEP,to spend Research” at 3 days in Cambridge and the Brazilian London visiting university British Centre in research centres and São Paulo. agencies working to transfer technology to firms and innovation to business. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:35 AM Page 16
Canada Ottawa
16 Country Profile Science Policy The high profile visit by Science for Wealth Lord May (President of the Creation Despite uncertainty about The S&T team for Canada, Royal Society) in April 2004 Federal S&T funding in 2004, based in Ottawa, continues was an excellent lever for Major events contributing with an increased focus on to report on Canadian promoting UK S&T and towards our wealth creation commercial results, the science policy, from potential joint work across activities this year included February 2005 budget innovation to stem cells and Canada.We used his visit seminars in Toronto and brought modest increases to cloning, on funding decisions to network with high-level Vancouver on Technology research council funding and and other major people in science policy Commercialisation.With a investments in science developments. Our monthly and funding in Canada, delegation of over 20 heads facilities; a sustainable energy newsletter on S&T in reinforcing the UK’s of technology transfer from S&T strategy, and the new Canada reaches over 150 strong reputation. UK universities, Research Canadian Academies of people in the UK, with a Councils and other We played an active role in Science. 2004 also saw the larger on-line audience. organisations, these events the European Commission’s official opening of the were an opportunity for UK plans for a Canada-EU S&T Canadian Light Source We have successfully lobbied delegates to share with, and co-operation office to be synchrotron in Saskatoon, a the Canadian authorities on learn good practice from, based in Ottawa.We have major facility for Canada. their stance to the UN Canadian counterparts in also reported on Canadian The National Science political declaration on areas such as metrics, action on the development Adviser’s role continues to human cloning.We have also technology transfer training, of early warning systems for develop, and there is been closely involved on and the creation of natural disasters such as continued focus on science policy issues including entrepreneurial tsunamis. for development. It is hard climate change, energy environments. Outcomes to predict longer term technologies and innovation. include UK-Canada links on Federal S&T policy because commercialisation software, of uncertainties around the current minority government. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:35 AM Page 17
as well as a proposal for Canada seminar on Arctic Discussions are under way Science for Public 17 including an international science planning and on student exchanges. Diplomacy component in the DTI’s logistics.The seminar The S&T team continues to Knowledge Transfer brought together Alongside the North bid for post funds to Partnerships scheme. researchers, funders and America campaign ‘UK sponsor visits of selected government representatives Science & Technology for a By supporting Global Watch scientists to and from the from the UK with their New World’ (page 7), we have missions, including a scoping UK, and to undertake visits Canadian counterparts, maintained a high profile for mission on bio-energy, we and tours of Canada’s including representatives UK S&T in Canada via a have prepared the ground research facilities to keep from northern communities. number of events.These for potential future joint up with Canadian Participants discussed include presentations to work, and also gained a developments.Working sharing infrastructure and large audiences by speakers deeper understanding of in partnership with the equipment (including ships such as Lord May, who gave Canadian policies and Ontario Government, the and planes), the capacity of public lectures, including the strategies.We work in team facilitated a visit by Canada’s Northern research Royal Society of Canada’s partnership with UKTI high-profile UK stem cell stations, potential Rutherford Memorial Lecture, Canada by liaising on researcher Dr Roger International Polar Year (IPY) on biodiversity and business plans and events, Pedersen to McMaster projects, and student and infectious diseases.The calls, visits, missions and University in Hamilton, researcher mobility. British High Commissioner industry contacts. Canada, from which future Outcomes have included to Canada, David Reddaway, collaborations may emerge. further discussions on joint used the grand opening of Science Collaboration UK-Canada IPY projects, the Canadian Light Source A visit from Professor David sharing research vessels, and to publicise ‘Big Science’ in Focusing on the Fisk, Chief Scientific Adviser co-ordinating information on the UK, the UK’s infrastructure and access to the UK Office of the the availability and capability commitment to science, and that need to underpin Deputy Prime Minister, also of Canadian northern the opportunities that come scientific collaboration, the helped to strengthen research stations. from large science facilities S&T team organised a UK- potential areas for UK- such as Diamond. Canada collaboration. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:35 AM Page 18
18 The first WISET (Women in By facilitating the visit of a Science Engineering and Toronto Star reporter to a Technology) exchange Hadley Centre conference between the UK and Canada on avoiding dangerous was completed with Ruth climate change in the UK, we Graham from Imperial helped to get three science College visiting Canada in articles published in the Star. May 2004, following on from We also placed articles by Elizabeth Cannon’s visit to our High Commissioner and the UK from the University Margaret Beckett in the of Calgary.The scheme National Post and the Globe enables female scientists in and Mail on UK and G8 their early-mid stage career climate change policies. to lecture, network, and act as role models for younger scientists at an international level. Plans for future visits are developing, and Ruth Graham is exploring ways of introducing to Canada a UK scheme to encourage young girls into science.
Working in partnership with our Media Section and Ottawa’s Environment Attaché, we have had significant coverage of UK S&T and UK S&T policies in the Canadian national press. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:35 AM Page 19
United States Washington DC,Atlanta, Boston, Houston, Los Angeles, San Francisco
Country Profile Year. US private sector with the US, learning from 19 spending is even greater its best practice and The United States remains than this, while the 50 states remaining S&T partner of the science and technology – several of which rank choice for Americans. powerhouse of the global among the world’s largest Moreover, whatever the US economy.The US federal economies – have their chooses to fund in terms of government alone has own S&T programmes. basic research is likely to the highest level of R&D The UK therefore has a emerge most quickly into Foreign Secretary investment in the world, at major interest in securing the markets. visits the Material Sciences Centre $132bn for this Financial access to S&T collaboration for Excellence at Howard University. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:35 AM Page 20
20 In line with wider US policy research to the impact of In February 2005, the Atlanta for the Birmingham science priorities, federal S&T and responses to climate S&T officer co-ordinated a park development team, to budgets are increasingly change.These policies create meeting between Sir Michael introduce them to examples focussed on national challenges and opportunities, Rawlins, Chairman of the UK of support for early stage security, especially the to which individual US states National Institute for Clinical technology companies; a ‘homeland security’ of the are often swift to respond Excellence and Health programme to enhance US itself.The UK is well with their own policies. For Development Agency, and enterprise teaching, business placed to contribute to that that reason, the UK’s S&T officers of the US Centers creation, knowledge transfer focus, given its own Network in the US expands for Disease Control (CDC). and foster industry links for experience of counter- well beyond Washington This proved to be a the UK Northwest science terrorism and the world- DC, to engage in discussions productive meeting, which enterprise centre. class technologies that it has with state governments and could see the UK pioneered. In December high-tech clusters ‘beyond implementing CDC findings In April 2004, the San 2004, we worked to ensure the Beltway’. and better co-ordinated Francisco S&T team that the first US Agreement studies on human produced a detailed report on S&T collaboration on Science Policy behavioural health issues. on Personalised Medicine in homeland security was with the US, covering regulation, In May 2004,Washington the UK.This created a Boston S&T team organised policy, academic research and S&T team raised the profile formal basis for even closer a number of visit private sector activity in of UK’s Ministerial working relations, between programmes to expose UK pharmacogenomics and gene commitment to global UK and US laboratories, and policy makers and therapy. UK stakeholders, science, with a preview of between UK universities and practitioners to US leaders including the Royal Society, the UK’s 10-Year Investment Department of Homeland in innovation. Events Imperial College, the Scottish Strategy for Science and Security centres of included: a programme for Centre for Genomic Innovation from Paul excellence. the Treasury productivity Technology and Informatics, Boateng, Chief Secretary to team on regional and the Department of US federal policy on key S&T the Treasury. competitiveness, industrial Health’s Human Genetics topics influences global performance and Commission, used the report debates, from stem cell entrepreneurial culture; visits to inform their policies. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:35 AM Page 21
Science for Wealth The S&T team supported 5 Science Collaboration McGuckin (Kingston 21 DTI Global Watch and UKTI University, UK) to the Creation trade missions to the San Boston S&T team worked NASA-Johnson Space Boston and Ottawa S&T Francisco Bay Area this year, with UKTI on a seminar Center Biomedical group. teams organised a forum to focussing on point of care about applying mobile This led to a DTI-funded bring the best minds in diagnostics, food processing communications technology sabbatical with a $1M grant universities together with technologies, energy storage, to healthcare (M-health). from NASA on the effects of experts in industry user-centred technology This was hosted by Kingston radiation on adult stem cells, technology transfer from the design and renewable energy University in conjunction to explore ways of UK, Canada and the US. technologies.These missions with Partners Healthcare of protecting astronauts from Participants discussed have led to new Boston, and brought space radiation in opportunities, challenges, collaborations, including a together UK and US preparation for the manned and best practice in aspects US company setting up a technology and healthcare mission to Mars in 2020. of technology London office as a result of policy makers.The team also In December 2004, San commercialisation, including hearing about UK supported 2 DTI Global Francisco and Los Angeles regional and international opportunities for user- Watch missions to the S&T teams organised two collaborations, early stage centred technology design. region.The first focussed on UK/California Stem Cell company support, and advances in technologies for In June 2004, Lord Sainsbury Research symposia with outputs and metrics.The storing electrochemical and Sir Richard Sykes visited Dame Julia Polak of Imperial one-day seminars were held energy and the second on San Francisco to attend College to bring UK and in Boston and promoted a best practice in harvesting, BIO2004.The S&T team California scientists and positive image of UK processing, storing and secured their participation researchers together.This capabilities.A number of transporting timber for fuel, and arranged their has already led to a new relationships have flourished for using forestry biomass as programmes.Their presence collaboration, with Dr Julie as a result, and the Boston a cost-effective energy raised the public profile of Saba, a senior scientist from team is supporting a staff source in the UK. the UK company delegates– the Children’s Hospital secondment from Children’s who made up the second Oakland Research Institute Hospital in Boston to the Houston S&T team biggest national contingent spending a sabbatical in NHS Innovation hubs. introduced Professor Colin after the US. Dame Julia’s London S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:35 AM Page 22
22 laboratory.The California Science for Public Our largest public diplomacy Conference, with a session on teams have been regularly effort in the US fell in women in science.We Diplomacy reporting on the new February, when the Embassy invited prominent women
California Institute for During 2004-05, the North launched Science Week with scientists to give plenary and Regenerative Medicine American S&T Network Professor Stephen Hawking topical lectures, led a (CIRM), positioning the UK implemented a year-long receiving a medal from the workshop on how women’s as the Institute’s partner of public diplomacy campaign Smithsonian Institute, and roles in science have choice, and discussing future to raise the profile of the ended it with a major evolved, and hosted a opportunities for CIRM and UK’s S&T strengths in the presence at the American reception honouring women UK research funders to US and Canada (page 7). Association for the in science, attended by key collaborate. Advancement of Science members of the US science and policy community.An accompanying pavilion featuring the work of five prestigious UK universities raised the profile of UK science and promoted overseas enrolment.
Stephen Hawking receiving the Smithsonian award, February 2005. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:35 AM Page 23
Australia Canberra
Science Policy Science for Wealth three Australian scientists explored the possibility of 23 visiting the UK during collaborating on stem cell Creation The UK and Australia have 2004-05. science and organising similar research priorities, Australia is very focussed on workshops for scientists from Collaboration has been with both countries the commercialisation of both countries. further enhanced by a visit, focussing on science, particularly in supported by the Australian Lord Sainsbury stated that nanotechnology, emerging areas, such as stem Department of Education, his office is keen to support biotechnology and climate cells and nanotechnology. Science and Training,from networking and collaborative change.While science policy Talks are under way with the six of Australia’s leading ventures between Australian in these areas is similar, Victorian Government in bionanotechnology and UK based scientists, as Australia is currently Australia and DTI to run joint researchers, to promote the traditional funding grants do reviewing its stem cell stem cell workshops for sharing of knowledge and not often cover such legislation and is starting exploring the commercial expertise. activities.The Australian to look beyond the Kyoto aspects of research. agreement on climate Government sees the UK Science for Public change.Any changes to Science Collaboration as a priority country and is Diplomacy Australian stem cell willing to support these legislation may impact Australia and the UK have a activities through its Late 2004 was an important current and future Anglo- long history of successful International-Linkage time for relations between Australian collaborations. collaboration in science and programme. the UK and Australia. Lord Australia recently supported technology. Many of these Sainsbury’s visit in November The British High Commission the UN proposal to ban operate between individuals, emphasised areas of research met with the New South therapeutic cloning, while often without formal that both countries could Wales Ministry for Science the UK opposed the agreements involving address collaboratively. Lord and Medical Research and proposal. institutions.The Australian Academy of Science has Sainsbury met key figures in identified several areas of strong links with the Royal Australian science policy, potential collaboration, Society and both fund including the Chief Scientist including stem cell science, research exchanges, with and the Federal Minister for nanotechnology, climate Science.These meetings change and water research. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:36 AM Page 24
China Beijing, Shanghai, Chongqing, Guangzhou
24 Country Profile international discussions on Innovation (S&I) section China’s recent experiences stem cell research prompted organised a fruitful with SARS and avian flu. China continues to achieve further lobbying to secure discussion on long-term Science for Wealth high growth rates, with a the Chinese government’s science planning and Creation 9.4% increase in GDP in support in the vote against possibilities for cooperation 2004, mainly based on the UN political declaration between Sir David King and S&I staff in China research income from an increasingly on human cloning. China the Ministry of Science and developments in science and sophisticated range of supported the UK position Technology (MOST) Vice technology with commercial exports.This is likely to in favour of therapeutic Minister, Secretary General, application of interest to UK continue for the foreseeable cloning. and other senior officials. companies.They routinely future. In 2003 (the latest brief visiting UK company year for which figures are Discussions on the The section continues to co- representatives on the state available) China spent International Thermonuclear operate closely with the of research in particular approximately £102 billion Experimental Reactor (ITER) Embassy’s First Secretary fields, and help them to on research and nuclear fusion project took Environment in promoting make contact with Chinese development, representing place with China, the EU the Government’s climate counterparts. 1.35% of GDP.It is aiming Mission and EU country change priority. for a 2% spend by the end of representatives. S&I staff in Beijing are S&I staff assist missions the decade. China’s ‘2020’ Visits by Chief Scientist Sir working with the DTI’s from the DTI’s Global Watch Medium to Long-term Plan David King (July 2004) and Foresight office and the Service, which identifies new for Science and Technology Science Minister, Lord Health Protection Agency to technology opportunities for is due to be published in Sainsbury (January 2005) ensure the smooth running high-tech UK companies.The late 2005. enabled high-level discussion of a major UK Foresight S&I section in Beijing is the Science Policy of common policy concerns, study on how patterns and Embassy lead for developing and the signing of an risks of emerging infectious Chinese science park In 2004-05 several issues Memorandum of diseases might change over incubators in the UK have dominated the policy Understanding (MOU) on the next two decades.The (Cambridge and agenda for the Network’s co-operation in space involvement of Chinese Manchester), negotiating operation in China. Ongoing research.The Science & experts is crucial because of with MOST on incubator S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:36 AM Page 25
Lord Sainsbury (Minister for Science and Innovation) and Dr Sun Laiyan (Administrator for the Chinese National Space Administration) sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the UK and China concerning civil space activities, January 2005.
come to China to establish 25 or continue joint research programmes. Notable achievements include: an MOU between Southampton University and the University of Qingdao on oceanography; preliminary discussions on medical ethics between the MRC and Chinese counterparts; and a research collaboration between DTI Foresight and the Ministries of Science and Technology, and Water Resources in flood control and prevention.
The Royal Society has administration, and Chancellor Gordon Brown individual scientists, research continued to fund a range of encouraging investment from attended its first meeting in institutions, funding councils projects in China.The Chinese high-tech Beijing (February 2004). and national academies.The Commonwealth Agricultural companies in the two China S&I network is now Bureaux International partner cities (Guangzhou Science Collaboration working to map these links. (CABI) held its first annual and Wuhan). meeting outside London in During the last decade, there In the last year, China has Beijing in 2004 on the theme The S&I section has been have been over one hosted visits from four UK of agricultural technology, active in establishing a UK- thousand research links and Research Council Chief with sponsorship from the China Working Party on exchanges between the UK Executives; scientists from Embassy’s S&I section. Venture Capital. UK and China, at the level of over 20 UK universities have S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:36 AM Page 26
India New Delhi, Bangalore
26 Country Profile indicates the importance biotechnology policy, have all use of English is gradually that India places on R&D. ensured robust growth of turning the country into a India has made significant this sector.The space global hub of R&D. progress in emerging areas Substantial funding for programme boasts a varied Science Policy of science, including biotech research, significant fleet of satellites and biotechnology, space, nuclear commercial interest, the indigenous launch capability. Sir David King met key S&T and information creation of a new national India’s large scientific and government officials and technologies.The 24% rise in stem cell research task force technical manpower scientists and lectured on its recent science budget and a new draft combined with widespread sustainable development and climate change during his visit to India in February The EPSRC team with Indian and UK scientists at the Life Science Interface Workshop, Indian Institute of Science Bangalore, January 2005. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:36 AM Page 27
2005. His meetings with the The S&I team conducted a to discuss policy, two ICT The Indo-UK Joint Economic 27 Science Minister, the Chief number of lobbying companies in Bangalore, and Trade Committee Scientific Adviser and the exercises to support the and India’s leading (JETCO) was formed earlier Chairman of Indian Space UK’s global science agenda, telecommunications this year as a consequence Research Organisation for example, during the UN scientist, Professor Ashok of the UK-India Prime (ISRO) led to constructive human cloning debate. Jhunjhunwala, IIT Madras. Ministers’ Joint Declaration ideas on how bilateral The S&I team is following signed in September 2004. relations could be Science for Wealth up on a possible UK/India Recommendations for work strengthened. Creation telecommunications under the Committee advisory network and include closer co-operation Professor Dame Julia UK Innovation – ICT Week possible commercial and in high technology areas Higgins,Vice President of the was sponsored by UKTI and research partnerships. such as ICT,aerospace, Royal Society, visited India’s held in January 2005. biotechnology and other premier research institutions Speakers from industry, Bangalore Bio 2005 is South cutting-edge commercial to explore possible research institutions and Asia’s largest biotechnology technologies. collaborations and to be government exchanged industry trade show. UKTI is briefed by ISRO Chairman information on wireless sponsoring a 10-member Science Collaboration on India’s remote sensing technology and e- trade mission and the satellite dedicated to Government.Twenty British Inward Investment Group is Three members of the education programmes, wireless technology and hosting the CEO Conclave. British Tissue Engineering Edusat.These meetings computer software The S&I team has invited Network (BRITENet) visited generated a follow up visit companies attended from Professor Alison Murdoch, Delhi and Bangalore in by a team from Imperial the UK.The S&I team Newcastle Centre for Life, November 2004 to meet the College to the Indian supported the science to speak on ‘The UK’s Indian Council for Medical Institute of Technology (IIT) strand by inviting Professor leading role in stem cell Research and research in Delhi to discuss how they Gerard Parr, University of research and policy’. laboratories to develop links could establish links. Ulster, who met senior in regenerative medicine. telecomm officials from The S&I team facilitated C-DOT (the government their programme, which telecom technology centre) S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:36 AM Page 28
28 included public lectures to British and Indian space Earth Observation is an area Centre at the University of highlight the UK’s expertise programmes both focus on in which the two countries Reading, visited the Space in this field. applications that benefit civil have complementary Applications Centre in society.To date there has strengths and a scoping Western India in December Two workshops and 38 been little bilateral activity in mission was organised. 2005. He was impressed by individual visits were held this area, and the S&I team Professor Alan O’Neill, the extent of integration of under the umbrella of the worked to build a rapport Director of the Data the Indian earth observation bilateral Joint Networking with ISRO during 2004-05. Assimilation Research programme and the Scheme.The workshop on using biomarkers to protect humans and the environment was held at Banaras Hindu University in Varanasi. The Industrial Mathematics workshop was held at IIT Bombay, and proposed that a permanent Indo-UK Industrial Mathematics Centre be set up there.
Sir Michael Arthur (British High Commissioner) and Sarah Bamber (First Secretary, Science & Innovation) at the Stem Cell Workshop press conference. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:36 AM Page 29
tremendous potential for activities conducted by Sir Michael Arthur, British Science for 29 collaboration in this area, in EPSRC to facilitate the High Commissioner to India, Public Diplomacy both the basic science and in engagement of physicists and inaugurated an Indo-UK Stem
applications. engineers with the life Cell workshop attended by The S&I team worked sciences. 20 leading British and Indian closely with the British High An Engineering and Physical stem cell researchers.The Commission’s Press and Sciences Research Council Lord Professor Julian Hunt week-long event included Public Affairs Department to (EPSRC) Life Sciences visited India in March 2005 lectures, practical sessions secure publicity for events Interface workshop was held on a British Council visit on handling mouse and and visits – in particular Sir in Bangalore in January 2005, programme.The S&I team human embryonic stem cells David King’s Climate Change organised by the S&I team in organised meetings for Lord and discussions on the lecture in Bangalore and the co-ordination with EPSRC Hunt with ISRO, where he future of stem cell research, Indo-UK Stem Cell workshop. and the Indian Institute of discussed a possible stem cell therapies and the The S&I team arranged for Science (IISc).The workshop partnership on urban short- ethics of conducting such five Indian science journalists is part of the portfolio of term atmospheric pollution research.The workshop was to visit the UK during forecasts. organised by the S&I team, November which resulted in the Royal Society and two good coverage of British leading institutes in science in the Indian press. Bangalore. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:36 AM Page 30
Japan Tokyo
30 Country profile Particle Physics and A meeting between technology areas in Japan Astronomy Research nanotechnology experts (e.g. grid computing, the Japan is the second largest Council) visited Japan in initiated by the Embassy in biotech sector) and issues of investor in R&D in the November 2004 to take part February 2005 agreed two public policy interest (e.g. world, after the US. In 2003, in the first “Science and workshops on the possible AIDS, stem cell research). total R&D spending in Japan Technology in Society” impact of nanotechnology Monthly updates on Japanese was about £90 billion or forum, aimed to stimulate on health and environment technology developments 3.35% of GDP (compared international debate on should be held under the went to over 300 with 1.9% in the UK), of these challenges. auspices of the Royal Society subscribers and attracted a which around 80% was and the Science Council of range of follow-up queries. business spending. Priority During the year, Japanese Japan.The first took place in We also provided briefing on fields within Government policy on stem cell research London in July 2005. energy efficiency measures science and technology moved closer to ours, and in Japan for the House of budgets are life sciences, we worked closely with the In addition, advanced rail Lords Science and information and Japanese Government during technology was the focus of Technology Select communications, the UN debate on human a visit by 6 Members of Committee. environment and cloning. Lord May gave a Parliament from the House Science for Wealth nanotechnology/materials. seminar on infectious of Commons Transport diseases in Tokyo in Select Committee.The visit Creation Science Policy November 2004, and the UK included a test ride on was subsequently invited to Japan’s prototype levitating The team helps UK We seek to work in take part in a joint Japan-US Maglev Shinkansen, the companies to access and partnership with Japan on workshop on mathematical world’s fastest train. benchmark Japanese science policy issues of modelling of disease technology through world-wide concern. Lord transmission. Further The team reported regularly organising DTI-funded Sainsbury, Lord May UK-Japan exchanges on Japanese R&D budgets Global Watch missions. (President of the Royal are now planned. and priorities, hot During 2004-05, we worked Society) and Professor Ian closely with Global Watch’s Halliday (Chief Executive, S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:36 AM Page 31
International Technology expertise of more than 70 Japanese companies are the UK’s two 31 Promoters (ITPs) to Japanese companies and successfully interacting with nanotechnology-related organise 7 missions looking research institutes, and to the UK research base. Interdisciplinary Research at Japanese innovation in the establish commercial Collaborations. following areas: contacts between UK and We also worked closely Japanese companies. with UKTI to highlight UK Positive outcomes during ● Fuel cells strengths in two emerging the year included two major The team continued to work technologies offering Japanese investments in the ● Structural genomics closely with UKTI to assist opportunities for research nanotechnology field, where the research-based UK high collaboration, trade and the Embassy has been ● Industrial bioprocessing tech company sector and investment.At BioJapan fostering contacts for some promote the benefits of the 2004, we showcased time.The Japanese Science ● “Smart” interactive UK as an R&D partner to British excellence in and Technology Agency textiles Japanese companies. In regenerative medicine and agreed to commit £3m over collaboration with UKTI, structure-based drug design 5 years to support Japan/UK ● Small-scale we gave seminars on the to a 200-strong audience research exchanges semiconductor strengths of the UK R&D from Japanese industry. activities; and Oxford production technologies base to Japanese companies British speakers included University and NTT (“minifabs”) in Kyoto and Hiroshima, Dr Melanie Lee of Celltech Europe announced a generating considerable and Professor Roger joint research initiative. ● Technologies promoting press coverage; and gave Pedersen of Cambridge the independence of customised presentations University’s newly opened Science Collaboration older people to 20 major R&D intensive Stem Cell Institute.At The team seeks to promote Japanese companies, Nanotech 2005, we staged a ● Global navigation and research partnerships providing details of relevant similar seminar focussing on satellite systems. between the UK and Japan UK centres of excellence. nanomaterials and devices in areas of joint priority, We jointly published a and bionanotechnology. These missions enabled where the UK can take brochure about UK R&D The 5 UK speakers included nearly 50 UK companies or advantage of synergies with capabilities and used case Professors Mark Welland universities to tap into the well-funded Japanese centres studies to show how and John Ryan, the heads of S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:36 AM Page 32
32 of excellence.We do this by during its G8 Presidency. Science for Public and were later used in a supporting workshops that brochure for Japanese Diplomacy bring together leading The flagship of the companies and research programme is a major experts from the two sides, The team organised a series centres. collaboration on climate and by funding researchers of seminars involving leading change modelling (page 76). The 2005 Expo at Aichi to travel between the UK British scientists to project Other projects include opened in March with the and Japan to visit sister excellence in UK R&D to alternative energy sources, theme “Nature’s Wisdom”. laboratories, exchange ideas Japanese opinion formers in sustainability and the built The UK pavilion showcases and develop proposals for government, industry and environment, green examples of British collaborative research.This academia. Speakers in 2004- chemistry, and flooding and environmental technologies. work was given a boost in 05 included Nobel Prize coastal defences. 2003 when the UK and winner Anthony Leggett and Japanese Prime Ministers Lord May.Topics included In the biosciences field, we agreed to step up bilateral fuel cells, bioprocessing, supported a workshop in collaboration on new and cancer-related clinical trials, Oxford on gene therapy, emerging technologies. tissue engineering, drug which identified scope for discovery and regenerative One important focus of collaboration in a number of medicine and stem cells. work in 2004-05 was climate areas, for example cancer gene therapy and RNA change, energy and The team also produced a therapy.The third annual sustainability. In 2003, the series of six articles on the bilateral rail cooperation FCO Global Opportunities UK nanotechnology scene, meeting was held in Japan, Fund injected £600,000 for a which were published in with a focus on possible 3-year programme to boost Japan’s “Nanotech Weekly” future research UK-Japan collaboration in journal.These introduced collaboration on rail these areas.This work is key aspects of UK policy and technology. directly relevant to the UK’s funding, described the main climate change agenda UK centres of excellence, S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:36 AM Page 33
Singapore Singapore
Country Profile June 2004 and held Science for Wealth Conference and Exhibition 33 discussions with the Minster in San Francisco. Creation Singapore’s commitment to for Health and the Chairman The Singapore British science and technology of A*STAR. Lord Warner We work closely with our Business Council (SBBC) remains high with a total also spoke to UKTI colleagues and DTI’s held workshops on science spend on R&D in 2003 of representatives of International Technology teaching and intelligent S$3.4 billion (2.15% of Singapore’s biomedical Promoters (ITPs) to help buildings, the latter taking GDP).The Agency for industry about the UK companies. Global place at the time of their Science,Technology and excellence of UK science Watch Missions on ICT annual meeting in Singapore Research (A*STAR) is and encouraged them to Clusters and Stem Cells in 2004. working to establish collaborate with UK visited Singapore in 2004, Singapore as a world centre companies. providing an opportunity to Science Collaboration for biomedical research, discuss potential Other visitors have included which has rapidly become collaborations. A workshop on medicinal the fourth pillar of its Professor John O’Reilly, chemistry and the manufacturing economy EPSRC Chief Executive, In order to capitalise on pharmaceutical industry was following success in Professor Roy Anderson, Singapore’s growing held in partnership with the chemicals, engineering and Chief Scientific Adviser to biomedical science sector Royal Society of Chemistry electronics. It is investing the Ministry of Defence, and we worked closely with (RSC),A*STAR and the significantly in new Professor Colin Blakemore, UKTI to bring out UK Singapore National Institute infrastructure, including the MRC Chief Executive, to companies to the of Chemistry.As a result a state of the art Biopolis discuss research policy with BioTechnicaAsia Exhibition. number of collaborations are complex, overseas talent and representatives of We also worked with the being explored and work on training its own researchers. Singapore’s research ITP for Life Sciences to give a further workshop is being councils.As a result of his UK companies networking considered. Other successful Science Policy visit Professor Blakemore opportunities with workshops were held on has been invited to join Singaporean biomedical Lord Warner, Parliamentary stem cell science and cancer Singapore’s Biomedical companies at the BIO2004 biology. Under Secretary of State for Sciences International Health, visited Singapore in Advisory Council. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:36 AM Page 34
34 The team has also supported Commission has opened a overall aim to present the (EPSRC), Lord Kumar UK universities looking for Science and Technology UK as modern, creative, Bhattacharyya (Warwick collaborative opportunities. Office in the Biopolis – relevant and successful. University) and Professor For example, a visit from Singapore’s state of the art Joe McGeehan (Bristol Newcastle University led biomedical sciences facility. In addition to the major University). to a workshop with Temasek public diplomacy campaign – Life Science Laboratory Science for Public UK-Singapore Partners in Singaporean organisations and subsequent visits from Diplomacy Science (page 11) we have also been encouraged Newcastle University supported a major seminar to invite British scientists to spin-out companies. We work with colleagues in October, in partnership Singapore.These have from the High Commission with the Institute of included Sir Richard Friend In order to promote and the British Council to Electrical Engineers (IEE) and (University of Cambridge) collaboration more promote the excellence of UKTI, with presentations by and Sir Martin Evans (Cardiff effectively, the British High UK science, as part of our Professor John O’Reilly University) who both gave a series of well-attended lectures.
The Sterling Group of UK Universities also arranged for a record 56 lectures to be given by 14 lecturers over 3 days at polytechnics, junior colleges and secondary schools on subjects ranging from food technology to fuel cells.
Brian Ferrar and Prince Andrew, Duke of York, at the opening of the new British High Commission S&T Office at the Biopolis. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:36 AM Page 35
South Korea Seoul
Country Profile President Roh opened the which covers pure science level to support the Japanese 35 5th UK-Korea High Technology to wealth creation, aiming to bid.The S&T team has Korea is now the world’s Industry Forum. Ministerial spot synergies delivering worked closely with the EU 11th largest economy, and is meetings were held on greater value for money. Delegation. Sir David King working to reflect its science and technology, ICT visited in July 2004 to press Science Policy strengths in development and energy, and several Europe’s case, meeting the with successes in research. agreements were signed, Presidential Adviser for Korea has a pivotal position 2004 was an exciting year, including the UK-Korea Science & Technology, the in ITER following its early with the State Visit to the Science,Technology and Foreign Affairs and Science decision at Head of State UK in December, when Innovation Partnership, ministers, and key scientists.
President Roh opening the 5th UK-Korea High Technology Industry Forum, December 2004. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:36 AM Page 36
36 He also delivered a thought- Lee Hee-beom, signed the Mobile VCE – the mobile textiles and stem cells, which provoking lecture on climate accession document with communications virtual raised the profile of Korean change. Mrs Patricia Hewitt and Mrs centre of excellence – is capacity, capability and Margaret Beckett in London doing particularly well in entrepreneurial Korea supports therapeutic in March 2005. Korea, with Stephen Timms’ environments.We work hard cloning. Professor Hwang visit, on his last day as with DTI to promote Woo-suk, Seoul National Science for Wealth e-Commerce minister, business opportunities. For University, whose cloning Creation moving forward our ICT example, the stem cell work is world class, spoke at contacts.We have promoted mission discovered how the time of the UN debates We promote direct co-operation between Korea’s large population, in favour of well-regulated commercial and investment Electronics and supportive regulatory therapeutic cloning. Public opportunities and Telecommunications environment and strong debate on this issue benchmark areas where Research Institute (ETRI) history of entrepreneurial continues, and we maintain collaboration with Korea can and Cambridge on optics development, has enabled it strong contacts with policy enhance the UK’s own and biotech/ICT fusion to establish a world-leading makers and scientists. technology base.The High technologies. In the same position in cell nuclear Technology Industry Forum way we are pursuing replacement and medical We have persuaded Korea in London during the State investments in life sciences, implementation. to join the Renewable Visit enabled over 400 with a growing number of Energy and Energy Efficiency business-to-business collaborations flowing Science Collaboration Partnership (REEEP), a meetings and created a through the Korea Health Korea is consciously moving British initiative launched at market place in mobile Industries Development into fundamental science, to the 2002 Johannesburg communications technology, Institute office in Glasgow. World Summit on creative industries, energy underpin its evident Sustainable Development. and environment. We hosted Global Watch strengths and achievements The Korean energy minister, missions in mobile in applied research and near communications, smart to market development. It realises it can no longer S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:36 AM Page 37
survive as a production and We also promote described his country’s 37 export economy but needs collaboration through the transition from a $50 per to add value and be Networking Fund and Focal capita GDP and primarily knowledge based.All this Point activities.These are rural society at the end of provides opportunities to now in full swing, ably led by the Korean War, to today’s enhance the UK’s the Royal Society and four high tech environment.We knowledge base. distinguished scientists: are also working with the Professor Richard Holdaway, Royal Society of Chemistry UK research institutions are CCLRC (space); Professor as it seeks to develop its increasingly collaborating John Ryan, Oxford presence in North East Asia. with Korea. For example, (bionanotechnology); Cambridge University’s Professor Colin Whitehouse, Science for Public Cavendish Laboratory is Director Daresbury Diplomacy jointly working with the Laboratory Korea Advanced Institute of (nanotechnology); and Dr Korea will host the Science and Technology; Jim Halliday, CCLRC International Conference for Heriot Watt has an (energy). Women Engineers in Science agreement on gas hydrates this year.With the UK with the Korea Institute of The Royal Society hosted representative we aim for Geology and Mines; and the the President of the Korea good representation from Council for the Central Academy of Science and developing countries. Laboratory of the Research Technology, Professor Councils (CCLRC) has an Chung Kun-mo, where he MOU with the Korea Institute of Energy Research. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:36 AM Page 38
Taiwan Taipei
38 Her Majesty’s Government does not recognise Taiwan as a sovereign state and consequently does not have diplomatic relations with it. However, there is a non-governmental Trade and Cultural Office, with full time S&I officers working there.
Country Profile and technology development (62%). Overall R&D spending In response to challenges has risen from 1.66% of presented by the new GDP in 1990 to 2.60% in knowledge-based economy 2003, and is set to reach 3% and the drive to stay by 2006. competitive the Taiwanese Government launched the This year, the Taiwanese Challenge 2008: National authorities have placed Development Plan particular emphasis on (2002~2007) to elevate National S&T Programmes, Taiwan to world-class including hazard mitigation, standing and to transform it telecommunications, into a ‘Green Silicon Island’. agricultural biotechnology, pharmaceutical and Total R&D expenditure in biotechnology, genomic 2004 was NT$112bn medicine, digital archives, (£1.87bn), with public sector nanotechnology and e- R&D valued at NT$67.2bn learning. (£1.1bn) and private sector Science Policy R&D investment at about NT$44.8bn (£0.75bn). R&D Taiwan wishes to focus more expenditure was split on biomedical research, and between basic research has sought advice from UK (12%), applied sciences (26%) S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:36 AM Page 39
colleagues on developing the research and incubation conference.The Royal collaborations.Academics 39 regulatory and legislative centres and universities in Society sponsored four from more than 50 UK framework that will be March. He has invited UK universities research universities and research needed. consultants and advisers to projects, and the British centres visited Taiwan to assist in developing HBMSP. Academy and NSC jointly deliver lectures, or build Science for Wealth sponsored 3 inter university joint research programmes. Creation The S&I team arranged five research projects on topics In return, more than 220 Taiwanese missions in ranging from bioinformatics Taiwanese scientists came to Taiwan excels in mass wireless/telecoms, to mudslides. the UK. production and agricultural technology, commercialisation of environment, biotechnology Sir William Stewart from the Science for Public technology.The team has and precision machinery Health Protection Agency Diplomacy enabled several UK during the year. visited Taiwan in October to companies to find partners share experiences in The S&I team set up a UK in Taiwan,particularly in the Science Collaboration infectious diseases and pavilion featuring seven UK field of biotechnology.A UK health care – in particular, companies at the EPSRC renewed its wireless technology controlling tuberculosis and Semicon2004 conference – cooperation agreement with company has also recently SARS.An exchange visit and the largest Semiconductor National Science Council set up a branch office in seminar were arranged as Exhibition in Taiwan. (NSC) of Taiwan and Taiwan to sell intellectual result of this visit. Professor Jocelyn Bell property. reviewed collaborative Burnell, University of Bath, projects between Dr Wu, NSC Chairman and spoke at an Astronomy The Chief Executive of universities from both Dr Tseng,Vice President of Symposium in Taiwan and Hsinchu BioMedical Science countries. Staff from the Academia Sinica of Taiwan gave a lecture at National Park (HBMSP) visited UK Royal Society of Edinburgh visited the UK, where they Central University. Several science parks, companies, visited major Taiwanese hosted a high-tech forum Taiwanese scholars have research centres and spoke and life science seminars to approached the S&I team to about their international promote scientific explore the possibility of experience at the science joint research as a result. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:37 AM Page 40
Czech Republic Prague
40 Country profile Science Policy Science for Wealth Science Collaboration Creation The Czech Republic is a The S&T officer in Prague In February 2005, the S&T small country with a actively supported key UK The S&T officer initiated officer contributed to a population of 10.3m and objectives on stem cells and contacts between the Zlín molecular biology GDP of £12.9bn.The Czech cloning, ITER location, Region in the Czech conference for European government has identified European Research Council Republic and the Technology scientists organised by the science and technology as a (ERC) and preparations for Centre of PERA, which led British Council.The event key priority. R&D investment Framework Programme 7 to an EU-funded project to set the scene for UK-Czech is 1.3% GDP,with 0.59% (FP7).The Embassy provided develop a Regional collaboration on cancer from the state budget and ongoing feedback on Czech Innovation Strategy and research projects, to change 0.71% from private sources. views to UK stakeholders further collaborative links. the perception of cancer and continued reporting on There was also a continuing from ‘fatal’ to ‘chronic’. Structural funds and EU issues such as Czech close co-operation with support contributes to Republic membership of the UKTI colleagues on science We organised a one-day innovation and knowledge European Space Agency, issues. Experts from Oxford seminar on intellectual transfer programmes.The technology transfer and Innovation, St John’s property rights, patents and Czech government is innovation.We also initiated Innovation Centre and DTI licensing with speakers from currently working on a high-level bilateral policy Innovation Group are The Patent Office, Czech National Innovation Policy dialogue between the Czech working with the Czech Industrial Property Office, with a view to build S&I Grant Agency and the UK Republic to improve the Czech Academy of Sciences collaboration with other Research Councils on closer commercialisation of and two UK companies. European countries. co-operation for bilateral research from academic Further co-operation research projects. institutions. between the UK and Czech Patent Offices is expected. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:37 AM Page 41
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Professor Kevin Warwick at Science for Public Blackmore,Visiting Lecturer the Cafe Scientifique in Prague, May 2004. Diplomacy at the University of the West of England, impressed both In May 2004, the British academic and general public Embassy and British Council audiences. continued their joint project, Real Life Science, presenting New science pages on the a series of lectures and Embassy website are being informal discussions (Café used to promote S&T Scientifiques). Professor Kevin bilateral partnership Warwick, University of opportunities, such as the Reading, and psychologist offer of research capacity at and writer Dr Susan Diamond, the Oxfordshire light source synchrotron. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:37 AM Page 42
Denmark Copenhagen
42 Country Profile A survey by the Economist The region of Copenhagen As a lead-in to the British Intelligence Unit rates and the South of Sweden EU-presidency, the Network In 2004 public S&I spending Denmark as the best (Medicon Valley), is the facilitated a bilateral meeting amounted to over DKr country in the world for largest pharmaceutical and with the National IT and 11,250 million (£1,000 business investment and biotechnological growth Telecom Agency and the million) – 0.73% of GDP predicts it will hold this centre in Scandinavia and the Danish Ministry of Science (excluding international position for the next 5 4th strongest in Europe. on European ICT issues, sources) and 0.7 % lower years.The rating puts which concluded that Science Policy than in 2003.The Denmark first on six of 10 Denmark is much less close comparison of national characteristics: political and to the UK on ICT areas than When Lord Sainsbury visited strengths and weaknesses in institutional climate, might have been expected. Copenhagen in October he information and economic stability, corporate held productive talks with Science for Wealth communications technology legislation, rules for foreign Danish counterpart Helge Creation in the annual report from investment, infrastructure Sander, on three areas of the World Economic Forum and the finance sector. mutual interest: FP7, ERC In October, a Novel Oncology (WEF) put Denmark at its and the Marimon Report. Therapies seminar was held at highest ranking ever within The Danish Government has They agreed to draft a joint the British Embassy in top IT nations, confirming its established the Danish high- UK/Danish/Swedish paper Copenhagen, co-organised reputation as one of the technology-fund to support on FP7 and ERC, to gain by the London world’s most sophisticated research and technology support from the Baltic Biotechnology Network and countries in terms of public transfer in emerging areas EU states. sector IT. like nanotechnology, biotechnology and ICT. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:37 AM Page 43
International Technology Scandinavians to choose the 43 Promoter Philip Oliver.The UK as their partner of event provided an choice. Lord Sainsbury gave opportunity for UK the opening speech at the organisations met with their Biotech Forum, Scandinavia’s Medicon Valley counterparts. largest biotech event, when The Embassy also hosted a he launched the UK-MVA bionanotechnology seminar (Medicon Valley Academy) and partnering event in Challenge Programme to Copenhagen in December promote cooperation to promote the profile of between the UK and the UK science and technology Oresund region in research in Denmark. and industry.
Science Collaboration
The aim of Lord Sainsbury’s visit to was to raise the profile of the UK as the best place for biotechnology in Europe, and to encourage S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:37 AM Page 44
France Paris
44 Country Profile rather than revolution, and which together aim to inject fails to tackle some of the money and direction into France’s R&D scene has most entrenched rigidities in French applied research. been dominated over the the French system such as Science Policy last year by a lively and often researchers’ status as public heated national debate servants, its focus on applied With international debates about the future of science research and move towards on cloning and choice of policy and budgets.The greater project funding have sites for ITER ongoing, we French Académie des been highly controversial. have been active in lobbying Sciences has led a nation- The government’s response and reporting on French wide consultation of has been to put the bill on positions on both.We have researchers calling for major the backburner: once increased the visibility and changes in the research announced for end 2004, it improved French system, including significant now looks unlikely to see perceptions of British increases in science budgets the light of day until 2006. bioethics policy, through a 1- and jobs, radical These protests have day seminar in March 2005. administrative simplification, continued despite the A bilateral event, with more rigorous research government’s decision to presentations on both UK evaluation and recognition of inject an increase of 1 billion and French policy, this was importance of basic euros per year to the well attended by top French research. In response, the research budget, decision makers.We have government has produced a representing an 8% increase. continued to report on draft Research and In addition, the government evolving French positions on Innovation Bill which has has set up a new National FP7 and prospects for a further ignited debate. Research Agency and is in European research area. Though to many observers the process of establishing a We still push for improved the bill proposes evolution National Innovation Agency S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:37 AM Page 45
collaboration on climate mission on Optics, led by the Bernadette Chirac at 45 change – our G8 priority – Smart Optics Faraday Downing Street in through a series of visits by Partnership. S&I and UKTI November.We held a ministers and senior officials teams were closely involved workshop for top cancer and our own activities. in co-ordinating the visit, researchers in the UK and taking in facilities in Paris, France and have followed up Science for Wealth Lyon and Marseilles.We have with the National Cancer Creation produced a report on fuel Research Institute (NCRI) in cells and hydrogen research the UK and the nascent A major event, also linked to development in France, to French National Cancer climate change, was a flag up opportunities to the Institute.We put together a bilateral seminar on UK fuel cells network. young researchers event renewable technologies, held focusing on proteomics and at the Embassy in January Science Collaboration cancer with the French 2005.Attended by over 170 Research Ministry. policy makers, journalists, Our main focus here has industrialists and SMEs, this been on cancer research. With the British Council we showcased British strengths This was the cornerstone of have put in place a in renewables and will, we the UK-France Entente programme of grants for hope, lead to business Cordiale 100th anniversary Franco-British collaborative opportunities for UK celebrations.We set up an cancer research projects.We companies, as there was annual prize for young have collaborated closely much interest from key cancer researchers in UK with the UK’s National French players in this area. In and France.The winners Translational Cancer autumn 2004, the team was were presented with the Research Network closely involved in an ITP awards by Cherie Blair and (NTRAC) on a major S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:38 AM Page 46
46 Entente Cordiale cancer Science for Public interest, we organised talks We are also in discussion seminar in the UK in by Professor Michael with the Académie des Diplomacy October 2004, followed up Laughton on alternative Sciences and the Royal
by an event in Paris hosted In addition to public energies, Sir Keith O’Nions Society to re-invigorate the by the National Cancer diplomacy aspects of the on science and terrorism, prix Franco-Britannique – a Institute in January 2005.We renewable energy and and Professor Colin Pillinger bilateral award for top young hope to create a new bioethics events, we on the Beagle 2 mission. scientists from the UK and website, in collaboration continued our prestigious These provided important France.We have built up a with Nature magazine, to series of science lectures occasions for exchanges closer network with science facilitate collaboration held at the Ambassador’s with top French policy journalists in France, between cancer researchers. residence. Remaining closely makers and scientists in resulting in positive coverage focused on policy areas of these fields. of the UK’s 10-year science and innovation strategy.
From left to right: Mr Hugh Elliott (Counsellor, Global Issues), Professor Colin Pillinger, Sir John Holmes (HMA), Madame Claudie Haigneré (French Minister for European Affairs), Dr Helen Dickinson (First Secretary, Global issues), Dr Stephen Flanagan (S&T Officer, Paris) – ‘Beagle 2 and Beyond’ lecture, June 2004. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:38 AM Page 47
Germany Berlin, Munich
Country Profile relationships with British In September 2004, On 26 November 2004 the 47 companies and research Germany’s National Ethics German Lower House Germany is the UK’s largest institutes. Council (NER) published a agreed the genetic European and second largest position paper on cloning, modification (GM) act, world-wide export market. Total investment in German including therapeutic cloning. overruling an earlier vote, In 2004, Germany bought R&D was £37.2 bn in 2003 Not counting abstentions, a and against advice of the £22bn worth of British (2.55% of GDP), of which majority of NER members scientific community.The act goods. Bilateral trade £11.6 bn (31.1%) from were open to the idea of covers the controversial amounted to £57bn, making government and £25.6bn research cloning under issues of strict liability rules Germany our largest trading (68.9%) from industry and strictly regulated conditions. for GM growers and the partner.The UK buys more elsewhere. The UK’s regulatory need for central registration goods from Germany than framework was seen as a of all GM fields. The Federal Government from any other country in model. has responsibility for the Science Policy the world, worth nearly legislative framework for £34.7 bn in 2004. On 15 November 2004, higher education, science Federal and State In the past year, S&I team has lobbied on the UN General Britain is the favourite funding, research and Governments pledged to Assembly Human Cloning destination for German technology, support for increase institutional funding debate, FP7 and Enterprise outward investment, after young scientists, and for Germany’s main research Capital Funds, and presented the USA, with some 3,700 international collaboration. organisations by at least 3% to the DTI Innovation German subsidiaries in the The Federal and State each year until 2010.As part Group on Germany’s UK, supporting some Governments have joint of this, the Federal priority research 350,000 jobs. Many German responsibility for university Government renewed its programmes and funding companies already infrastructure and large pledge to meet the Lisbon mechanisms.The team also undertake R&D in the UK, research facilities.Together goal of increasing R&D worked to provide input to but we want to encourage they fund Germany’s major spending to 3% of GDP by the UK’s Organization for more to consider adding research organisations. 2010.The Federal Economic Cooperation & value to their businesses by Government also plans to Development (OECD) exam developing R&D cut subsidies in favour of increased R&D funding. preparation for Germany, S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:38 AM Page 48
48 which focused on Economics Ministry official with German companies, German companies to innovation, the Cardiff in October 2004 to discuss working with UKTI and the consider the UK as a rich Process, and benchmarking University Challenge Seed ITPs. S&I and UKTI officers source of attractive new economic reforms in EU Funds. from Munich and Hamburg technology partners, in Member States.We also attended a 2-day symposium addition to other obvious raised awareness in Science for Wealth on innovative materials, to sources, both within Germany of the research Creation investigate R&D and Germany and eastwards opportunities at the technology trends, promote (new EU members, Japan, Diamond Synchrotron Light The Germany S&I team has joint working and knowledge China).Working with Source. invested particular effort in of German companies. New multipliers like chambers of improving co-ordination research collaborations have commerce, start-up The team also secured with the (much larger) UKTI resulted from the 2002 ITP company incubators and German participation in the Germany network. cancer research mission to industry associations is G8 Energy Research workshop, Approaches include Germany. important. and helped the Germany- information sharing, business based International Early plan input, joint visiting, As ITP activity focuses on Clean energy is another Warning Programme promotion of major UK inward technology transfer priority area, in particular participate in the Prime high-tech events and and does not cover all fuel cell and hydrogen Minister’s National Hazards improved understanding of sectors, other forms of technology.The Munich S&I Working Group. It each other’s interests and of collaboration, such as team has been developing sponsored visits by the the different time-scales on outward licensing or contacts and events, General Secretary of the which S&I and UKTI teams alliances between UK start- designed to position the UK German Research operate. up companies and foreign as partner of choice. One Foundation in July 2004, partners, risk falling between event brought together focusing on the ERC and the The S&I team, especially in the work of UKTI and ITPs. British and German Research Assessment Munich, is devoting The S&I team therefore also participants in the scientific Exercise, and by an particular attention to encourages high-tech conference on fuel cells in technology collaboration Munich in October 2004. Munich is also seeking to S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:38 AM Page 49
establish a substantive S&I industry, IC scientists and We took advantage of 49 element in cooperation knowledge transfer experts. Richard Lambert’s fact- between Bavaria and finding visit to Germany in Scotland, initially in the When Professor Ronald January 2005 to organise a environment sector. In both McKay visited Berlin to discussion on university- these areas Munich liaises receive the Ernst Schering business links.We organised with the Environment & Prize in September 2004, he a full programme for Lord Energy team in Berlin, and participated in a discussion May’s 24-hour visit in March, with UKTI Germany about the commercial to raise Britain’s scientific colleagues. potential of stem cell profile amongst key contacts research and regenerative from science, politics and German Federal Minister for Education and Research Science for Public therapies co-hosted by the business, as well as young Edelgard Bulmahn (right) at an Diplomacy Embassy. physicists and journalists. event on the opportunities and risks of nanotechnology, British We organised a Embassy Berlin, 30 June 2004. nanotechnology event at the Embassy in June 2004 with Paul Farrelly MP and young SPD MPs. Federal Research Minister Edelgard Bulmahn gave the keynote speech.The event gave us new access to policy makers and industry.
We facilitated the organisation of an Imperial College (IC) alumni event at the British Embassy Berlin, which gave us access to alumni working in German S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:38 AM Page 50
Italy Rome, Milan
50 Country Profile economy rests with SMEs technology transfer is Science Policy that find it financially difficult improving, with new The Italian Government to invest long term in R&D. technology and science The S&I team organised a considers science and parks, incubators and number of meetings last technology fundamental for Links between industry and University and Research year, including talks in Rome the country’s economic academia are currently Centres liaison offices and London between Sir growth and competitiveness, weak, but tax relief, opened. Foreign direct David King and Minister of and it is determined to dedicated funding investment has helped get Research Letizia Moratti, and increase the level of public programmes and exchange some of these off the discussions between UK and expenditure to 1% GDP by of research internship ground. Examples include the Italian Government Officials 2010 as part of the wider programmes have been put ICT Wireless District in to discuss ways of improving Lisbon Agenda targets.The in place to change this. But Turin,the Nanotechnology collaboration on AIDS 2004 Financial Act devised a this will require significant District in Veneto and the research. series of fiscal incentives to changes to the economic new Robotics Pole in Genoa, increase private sector R&D culture of the country. demonstrating also a The House of Commons investment. How R&D stronger involvement of Science and Technology The National Research institutions or companies regional administrations in Committee visited Italy as Council has been make the best of the promoting research and part of their enquiry into streamlined and financial tax innovation.The proposed Assisted Fertility and the law restructured to increase its breaks/incentives remains to industry R&D budget for (October 2004), and Sir efficiency, and the creation of € be seen, as Italy’s overall 2005-06 is 6bn with David King promoted UK the Italian Institute of competitiveness slides approximately 30% of this Science policy and best Technology in Genoa, downwards. Part of the for applied research. practice in Turin. modelled upon Cambridge’s problem for Italy is MIT,is due to be operational structural as 90% of the in 2005-06.The profile of S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:38 AM Page 51
Science for Wealth Science Collaboration 51 Creation Southampton University and We have collaborated with Trieste Oceanographic UKTI, particularly on Institute have now formally aerospace, automotive / signed an agreement on the transport and materials exchange of researchers as sectors. well as research collaboration.We have We were also involved in a continued to work with the seminar on the future of UN International Centre for Hydrogen Fuel Cell Genetic Engineering and technology at the Embassy Biotechnology on a code of bringing together UK and conduct for scientists Italian governments, industry working with biological and researchers.This was material. followed up by a joint government/industry mission Researchers from the to northern Italian hydrogen University of Glamorgan and fuel cell centres. the Inter-University Centre for Sustainable Development (CIRPS) at La Sapienza University in Rome have also begun collaborating, with joint research projects and exchange of students. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:38 AM Page 52
Netherlands The Hague
€ 52 Country Profile spent ~ 8.2bn on R&D in 2003, shared by government The Innovation Platform, and industry. chaired by the Prime Minister, is bringing about The second half of 2004 changes in government, marked priorities set by the university and EU Presidency of the entrepreneurial circles.The Netherlands and the Platform offers a long-term Brussels’ agenda. European vision to strengthen the discussions, staged by the climate and potential for Dutch, focussed on the innovation by proposing future of the EU research measures across a wide policy, international co- spectrum of policy areas, operation and security- including further fiscal related research.The first incentives for R&D and formal Joint EC-ESA-Space schemes for research Council was held under the collaboration. Presidency, creating the basis Recommendations by the for working out the Platform to tackle the European Space Programme impending shortage of (ESP). Negotiations with international knowledge Japan on EU’s preferred site workers have been for ITER were not implemented, with much to concluded, despite strong be done in other areas. commitment from the Government and industry Minister of Education, Culture and Sciences. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:38 AM Page 53
Science Policy Amongst S&I unit’s most We participated in the conference. In addition, we 53 prominent contacts is the prestigious Practical Ethics in organised a symposium on S&I unit enjoys close Royal Netherlands Academy Research seminar, which The Living Brain: Neurogenesis relations with a wide area of of Arts and Sciences British Council hosted and Neurogenomic to present science policy contacts (KNAW). Royal Society jointly with the Netherlands research by the Brain Repair including the Advisory president Lord May Organisation for Scientific Unit at Cambridge Council for Science & participated in the Research in October 2004. University and related work Technology (AWT), one of InterAcademy Council The event considered broad from the universities of our key sources on strategic (February 2005) and spoke areas of everyday scientific Amsterdam and Leiden. innovation advice to with Her Majesty’s practice and relations government.We aim to Ambassador (HMA). IAC between science and the Our work with the provide an effective hub in acts as an umbrella for 90 media. University of Cambridge and the Netherlands for the UK national science academies. the FC Donders Institute Science for Wealth Government and Britain’s Sir John Enderby,Vice- (connected to Nijmegen Creation scientific community, President of the Royal University and the Max continuing to link areas of Society participated in the Planck Institute) on studying S&I unit maintains close scientific excellence.This Euro Conference Permanent the language centre of the connections with the year we focused on brain Access to the Records of brain has resulted in better National Genomics Initiative and cognitive sciences and Science, which discussed collaboration and scientific (NGI).We put on a laid the basis for a new developing an infrastructure exchange. Postdoctoral neuroscience exhibition in project on therapeutic to make electronic academic exchanges and travels linked association with the cloning. publications permanently to our brain science available. Wellcome Foundation, programmes took place alongside other world class between the Universities of companies, at the NGI Edinburgh and Amsterdam. Genomics for our World Closer relationships were also forged between the S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:38 AM Page 54
54 University of Cambridge and Professor Richard Morris the Royal Society of memory and the synaptic the Vrije Universiteit (Edinburgh University), Edinburgh and the Royal plasticity of the brain. Amsterdam in memory and President-elect of the Academy of the Netherlands cognition programmes. Federation of European was well-received. Professor S&I unit hosted internships Neuroscience Societies, has Morris also chaired the at the embassy for three We participated in the been a particular stimulus to Brain Science Event in the final-year biomedical science European Leadership in S&I unit throughout the Scotland in the Netherlands students.These placements E-Science and Grids event, project. His open lecture programme during which count towards the students’ which united policymakers How Brain Science Could plans were laid for an graduation. and stakeholders from the Transform Our Lives in the Edinburgh/Amsterdam post- high performance computing 21st Century, co-organised by doctoral exchange on world.We also assisted Diamond Synchrotron with Left to right: Jane Darby (Deputy Head of Mission), Leo Zonneveld (Science Attachè,The Hague) Dr Edvard their request for Beem (Medical Research Council ZonMw), Senator Dr D Dees (First Chamber and Chairman ZonMw) Marleen international partnership in ten Horn (Free University of Amsterdam,The Hague), Sir Colin Budd (HMA). detailing possible requirements from the Netherlands and Belgium.
Science for Public Diplomacy
Our Brain Science and Cognition Project generated a professional exhibition in the embassy entrance hall, which became a focal point for a series of meetings involving HMA throughout the year. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:38 AM Page 55
Poland Warsaw
Country Profile EU membership and the Science Policy German and Dutch speakers 55 Polish government’s only). Huw Parry from PERA European companies and commitment to Lisbon The Warsaw S&I business described how to encourage institutions have shown Agenda targets require plan prioritised the university/business significant interest in collaboration with more promotion of UK best collaborations using the developing close links with experienced European practice to support UK model as an example Poland since it joined the partners.The World Bank’s innovation and of best practice. European Union in May assessment of the S&I commercialisation of 2004.With a population of situation in Poland made a research. Sir David King’s The S&I unit has also almost 40 million Poland is number of policy visit in March 2005 provided researched and provided the largest of the new recommendations to include an opportunity to further brief summaries of Polish Member States. It has a high setting up new mechanisms this goal. Interest in UK positions on FP7 and skill base and several strong for innovation support in the expertise is strong in Poland, mechanisms/legal academic and industrial regions, encouraging and we are working closely instruments supporting centres such as Cracow, stronger links between with the Government. innovation at the request of Wroclaw, Poznan and science and business and Working with the UK will OST and SIG. Gdansk. It is also the biggest strengthening international help Poland to increase its Science for Wealth recipient of European co-operation. competitiveness and meet Creation Structural and Cohesion the Lisbon Agenda targets. Funds. GDP growth is The UK’s experience The S&I unit funded and currently around 5%, means that S&I is an area The S&I unit secured UK participated in a UK visit compared to ~2% in the in which Polish – UK representation at a major from two Polish Ministries Eurozone. collaboration could develop conference of Innovation and the Polish Agency for particularly well. Relay Centres held in Enterprise Development, to Wroclaw in May 2005 improve SME access to R&D (initially the plan was to have financing and encourage innovative attitudes within companies. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:38 AM Page 56
56 Science Collaboration Professor John Zarnecki, Sir David King met Professor potential UK/Polish the UK guest speaker, Legocki, head of Polish commercial opportunities The Space UK seminar described his role in the Academy of Science, during and opportunities to organised together with the recent Huygens mission his visit, to discuss increase research British Council in February and highlighted benefits of neuroscience and brain collaboration. showcased UK/Polish direct collaboration with his science – areas in which Science for Public collaboration on space Polish counterparts from Poland has expertise, but Diplomacy research, and generated the Polish Space Research lacks funding and equipment. significant media coverage. Centre. The S&I unit will explore During his visit to Poland, Sir David King presented on the role of science in European innovation, at the Ambassador’s Residence, and on climate change at Warsaw University.The latter was the first in a series of climate change events held by the British Council with S&I and UKTI involvement.
Robot assembling during the Space UK event at Olsztyn Planetarium. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:38 AM Page 57
Russia Moscow
Country Profile system.Among other Science Policy Russian MES counterparts to 57 measures, a draft law on identify priorities for the President Putin has clearly special economic zones has In May the Royal Society next JC meeting: climate stated his intention of been prepared, with the aim celebrated Scientific change, FP7, ITER, flooding moving Russia from a of increasing foreign Research Collaborations and forestry.This meeting resource-based to a investment in industry and between Russia and the UK. coincided with a networking knowledge-based economy. thus boosting regional The newly appointed lunch organised by the Science and innovation will development. Finally, in Russian Minister for Science Science team (and hosted by be essential for reaching the October 2004 Russia ratified and Education Andrei the Deputy Head of Mission) target of doubling GDP by the Kyoto Protocol. Fursenko attended and took where senior Russian 2010. 2004 was marked by the opportunity for science contacts met OST the controversial proposal Public civil science funding discussions with Lord visitors and the Ambassador. from the Ministry of has grown by almost 400% in Sainsbury and Sir David Science for Wealth Education and Science (MES) the last 5 years. By the end King. In October Her Creation to increase the effectiveness of 2004 it had reached Majesty’s Ambassador of the public S&T $1.6bn (0.29% of GDP,with (HMA) had a productive Several activities have organisations, promote total national R&D meeting on science policy focused on providing British development of non- expenditure 1.44% GDP), with Minister Fursenko in models for commercialising governmental science and with a projected $3.8bn Moscow.The Science section technology to come out of form a national innovation by 2008. continues to liaise closely Russian R&D organisations. with MES on the Joint One of this year’s Embassy Commission (JC) and the Global Opportunities Fund Ministry for Industry and (GOF) projects was with Energy on the High- Oxford Innovation, which Technology Working Group. worked with major research In January the Science centres in the Moscow Professor Andrei section co-ordinated a Fursenko (left) and Region and Siberia to train meeting of senior OST and Lord Sainsbury and mentor people involved (right) at the Royal DTI officials with their in technology transfer and Society, May 2004. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:38 AM Page 58
58 the financing of high Science section was involved RosAtom Federal Agency market, putting it in a technology start-ups. For in establishing a major and the DTI. prominent position in the example, assistance was agreement between the DTI world market of sub-sea given to setting up a and the Russian Federal In February, the Science metering technology. “business angel” network for Fund for Assistance to Small section was instrumental in funding projects in the city Innovative Enterprises arranging the visit of Roger Science Collaboration of Tomsk in Siberia. (FASIE) to increase the level Baker,Head of the UKTI A theme to this year’s work of UK involvement in International Trade Team for of the Science section has The Embassy’s Science Russian innovation. Shell and the East of England to Russia. been the promotion of section continues to the British Embassy held a He visited a selection of biotechnology collaborate closely with the one-day technology fair in organisations in Moscow and collaborations, with Russian DTI Global Watch Service Moscow at the Embassy to St. Petersburg to explore the bioinformatics and and the ITP for Russia.This strengthen ties between current state of science and biotechnology experts collaboration has resulted in academic institutes and Shell innovation activities in Russia, visiting the UK last summer. a series of articles on Russia in July 2004. to assess potential and in Global Watch Magazine, barriers for technology These visits will enable the and has generated support The section has also transfer form Russia to the UK to use scarce human for UK companies requiring achieved considerable UK.As a result, the DTI resources in molecular information on Russian progress on the Closed approved a staff secondment biology and improve technology. Eight technology Nuclear Cities Programme from a Russian high-tech collaboration on projects. transfer and commercial to promote peace and company to Cranfield In October 2004 the section scientific collaborations security by maximising civil University to trial a new organised a working visit to (including items on employment opportunities method for 3-phase flow the science town of Dubna, biotechnology, use of fuel and scientific collaboration measurement (oil, gas, and where the first large IT cells, environmental opportunities for FSU water) for use in the oil cluster is being developed. technologies and scientists formerly employed industry.The British partnering As Dubna is a candidate for instruments) and four in the defence sector.An company will then develop the special economic zone secondments of Russian MOU was signed in Moscow instrument for manufacture in status, it was particularly scientists to UK companies in November between the the UK and sales to the global have also been initiated.The S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:38 AM Page 59
useful to meet with the City Science for Public Previous competitions have 59 Administration, and key raised UK interest in Diplomacy people in charge of the IT technologies described in
Centre development. The British Council has been the articles, such as thermal working with the scientific synthesis of new materials By liaising with the Russian news agency InformNauka and new methods of Ministry of Foreign Affairs for 3 years to organise diagnosing breast cancer the Science section has training and a competition using laser acoustics.This supported marine research for young Russian science year’s competition was by Russian scientific vessels writers. Entrants are mostly particularly strong and the in the UK zone of the science journalists at the DTI featured an article on Norwegian Sea. Russian start of their careers or Russian Engineering in expeditions conducted trawl researchers with a talent for Global Watch based mainly and acoustic surveys for writing.The Embassy Science on articles from the herring stocks to develop section has worked with the competition. long-term co-operation with DTI to encourage UK organisations under the submission of articles about framework of the innovation in order to International Council for the extend the scope of the Exploration of the Sea. competition.The DTI award prizes for the best articles on innovation, which are also translated into English and published in Global Watch magazine. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:38 AM Page 60
Sweden Stockholm
60 Country Profile During 2004 the Swedish intellectual property rights Medicon Valley Challenge government launched its by university researchers Programme to promote The Swedish Government Innovation Strategy, outlining and a new IT strategy. closer collaboration and aims for Sweden to be a a vision for Sweden “to be develop new partnerships in Science Policy leading research nation and Europe’s most competitive, the biotechnology industry. one of the world’s most dynamic, knowledge-based During the past year, the S&I R&D intensive countries. economy”.This strategy Other science policy team in Stockholm has Sweden already leads the highlighted the need to activities included visits by supported UK policy world in its R&D investment prioritise high-tech research the House of Commons objectives in a range of figures: the 2003 OECD areas, increase collaboration Select Committee on scientific fields including Science,Technology and between public and private Science & Technology reporting on relevant policy Industry Scoreboard showed sectors and between small Committee as part of their developments, such as the that total Swedish R&D and large companies, enquiry into Human launch of the Swedish spending in 2001 was 4.3% strengthen the role of Reproductive Technologies Innovation Strategy. Lord of GDP.More than 75% of university holding companies and the Law, and by the Sainsbury visited Sweden this is in the industrial and industrial research House of Lords Select and Denmark to find out sector, mainly in institutes, and to use the Committee on Science & more about strengths in telecommunications, public sector as a driving Technology, looking at nanotechnology and pharmaceuticals and force for sustainable Swedish innovations and biotechnology research, and transport. In March 2005, the development. However, policy in energy efficiency. also met with top-level Government presented a feedback from the science politicians, officials and Science for Wealth new research policy bill – and innovation community scientists at the Innovation Creation Research for a Better Life – was that it did not contain Agency,VINNOVA, the focussing future public the concrete proposals they Karolinska Institute and Working closely with spending on strengthening were looking for. Lund University amongst colleagues in UKTI, the S&I Sweden’s international others. Organised in team ran a seminar on competitiveness in medicine, Policy proposals expected in collaboration with UKTI, commercialising technology and the coming year include Lord Sainsbury also used the bionanotechnology for environmental research. likely changes to the rules regarding the ownership of visit to launch the UK- participants from the UK, S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:39 AM Page 61
Sweden and Denmark. Another partnership with Science Collaboration In addition, the S&I team 61 Further business UKTI is the ”Soft-Landing worked in close opportunities were Programme’ designed to Making contacts and building collaboration with the encouraged through build links and establish partnerships with research British Council to establish extensive support for an Swedish companies in UK intensive industries and the International Network for ITP-led mission on Emerging science parks. Presentations businesses, key universities Young Scientist’s workshop in Oncology Therapies.The have been made to and important multiplier Lund, which focussed on mission included visits to key companies about the organisations is an ongoing diabetes and cardio-vascular companies in the field, a advantages of undertaking part of the S&I team’s work. diseases. business seminar and a R&D in the UK in a Particular focus in the past Science for Public science workshop at the collaboration that will year has been placed on Diplomacy prestigious Nobel Forum at continue in the coming year. developing links in the the Karolinska Institute with Medicon Valley/Öresund Over 200 people attended representatives from both area, which crosses the Small Talk on Big Issues: academia and business. border with Sweden and Science in Society a major Denmark, and the launch of programme of activities on the UK-Medicon Valley nanoscience and Challenge Fund.The S&I nanotechnologies hosted by team also provided the key Lund University and link between Stockholm’s organised by the S&I teams Karolinska Institute and the in Sweden and Denmark, University of Sussex/South together with colleagues East of England Regional in UKTI and British Development Agency, which Council.Activities included resulted in a successful a commercial partnering application to the European seminar and a Café Interreg IIIc programme for Scientifique on a European Network of bio-surveillance and Members of the House of Lords S&T subcommittee visit a Excellent Research nanotechnology.This event development of “passive houses”, Lindas. Competence. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:39 AM Page 62
62 will also feed into the UK showcased other UK and the general public in “Small Talk” programme, science, including Professor different venues across the funded by the Office of Sir Richard Friend, founder city.The UK’s National Science and Technology. of Cambridge Display Centre for Biotechnology Technology Ltd, speaking Education engaged Another highlight was the about the processes that participants in “Finding the focus on the UK at the 2004 take science from discovery Murderer – a DNA Gothenburg Science Festival, to commercialisation.A fingerprinting workshop.” where Professor Lord team from Explore@Bristol Again, close collaboration Robert Winston opened the – a UK science discovery with colleagues in UKTI and festival and spoke to a centre – led interactive the British Council was key packed audience on the workshops with PhD to the success of this event. human mind.The Festival students, school children
Lord Winston, Karin Altenberg (British Council),Alice Hague (British Embassy Stockholm), Anthony Cary (HMA) and Lady Winston at the opening of the Gothenburg Science Festival. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:39 AM Page 63
Switzerland Berne
Country Profile in 2001, of which national Switzerland imports 4.5% of investor, and 4th largest in 63 R&D spend is around 2.7%, its goods from the UK and per capita terms. Switzerland Switzerland has 7.2 million 2nd highest in the world on 80% from the EU. 5.5% of invests heavily in the UK, citizens and although not a a per capita basis. GNP was exports go to the UK and occupying 5th position with member of the EU, it has marginally higher, with 60% to the EU. It is the over 1,000 firms providing several bilateral agreements. unemployment standing world’s 9th biggest outward around 100,000 jobs. Swiss GDP was £185 million at ~4%.
UK delegation at Nanofair 2004, St Gallen, Switzerland. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:39 AM Page 64
64 Science Policy of Technology at Lausanne time events: a significant UK 35 Swiss companies and (EPFL), who is also the pavilion at Nanofair in university research Our policy highlight was Sir European Fusion St Gallen; a UK-Swiss Applied departments for a 2-day David King and the Swiss Development Agreement Photonics Partnering workshop programme of partnering Secretary of State for Leader. Swiss interests in Berne; and a Swiss cancer sessions, technical Science signing a UK-Swiss closely match those of the therapies expert mission to presentations and joint strategy paper on UK. Switzerland signalled a Cambridge and Manchester. company visits. collaboration in S&T,in possible interest in Lausanne in November increasing its financial The UK showcased its Separately, the Swiss 2004.With Lord Sainsbury contribution to ITER to emerging strengths in government invited HMA as initiator and co-signatory, above the current 3% in nanoscience on the UK and us to accompany the the paper is a roadmap for exchange for full inclusion in stand featuring 14 UK SMEs first Swiss Biotech and future bilateral cooperation the ITER debate among and research organisations Nanotech Mission to on S&T.It also calls for European partners. at the NanoEurope exhibition London with 60 invited annual informal meetings and conference in St. Gallen. participants in May 2004.The between senior government S&T team also helped co- This event was possible due mission was led by the Swiss science officials to review ordinate two sponsored to the organisation by S&T Secretaries of State for progress and to coordinate visits for key Swiss S&T Berne, our Inward Science and the Economy, future activity.The document opinion formers to London, Investment section and and was received by Lord was drafted by Berne S&T Manchester and Oxford. UKTI London.The event Sainsbury, Sir David King and team and received input generated some 20 serious other UK science leaders. Science for Wealth from Swiss officials. leads for sales or Creation collaborations. Also, the Embassy provided Sir David King’s visit flagged strategic support for a Our efforts to create wealth up potential for improved Our Applied Photonics technology tour lead by a for the UK with cutting-edge coordination of UK-Swiss Partnering workshop Geneva-based Association, science and to facilitate policy and lobbying on ITER. co-organised with UKTI for European venture knowledge transfer and We facilitated private Berne and Photonics Cluster capitalists to London, technology collaborations discussion with Professor UK brought 21 British Cambridge and Bristol. were marked by three first- Tran of the Federal Institute companies together with S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:39 AM Page 65
Science Collaboration Astronomy Research At the annual science open professional update of 65 Council (PPARC), day of the EPFL in Cellzome’s world-leading In March, the cancer represented the UK at the November, Sir David King drug discovery work for therapies mission co-led by climax of international delivered a speech on the Alzheimer’s disease, S&T Berne and our Inward celebrations and bilateral science of climate change including collaboration with Investment section took events to mark the 50th and its challenges to an Novartis, to an international eight senior managers of anniversary of the European invited audience of 300. biomedical audience of 250. Swiss biopharma SMEs to Particle Physics Lab, CERN. UK colleagues in Cambridge In December, Berne’s Science for Public and Manchester, including University Hospital hosted Diplomacy Astra Zeneca.The mission the 4th International Congress received strong support of the Swiss In April, we supported UKTI from the biotechnology Proteomics Society. Berne in executing the 1st cluster in Cambridge and the With financial UK-Swiss Energy Emissions East of England, BioNow and backing from trading conference in Zurich. Astra Zeneca, and generated Inward Investment some probable partnerships section, S&T Berne To underscore our for clinical trials. One EU fielded Dr Adele prioritised promotion of the FP6 application has already Rowley, Director of UK biopharma sector as the been submitted for a Pharmacology at European leader, HMA research project between Cellzome Inc. in Simon Featherstone hosted one of our hosts and the Cambridge as two lunches for Swiss University Hospital of Berne. keynote speaker. opinion leaders and decision Dr Rowley makers, with Sir Richard Lord Sainsbury and Ian delivered a Sykes and Dr Phyllis Starkey Haliday, Chief Executive of as guests of honour. Particle Physics and
Participants at the UK-Swiss Applied Photonics Partnering Workshop. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:39 AM Page 66
Israel Tel Aviv
66 Country Overview Most Israeli basic research is nanotechnology and illnesses including cancer, conducted at seven biotechnology sectors; the diabetes, neurological Israel is one of the world’s independent universities. In formation of a National diseases such as Parkinson’s technology powerhouses, government, the Ministry of Council of Bioethics; and the disease, spinal cord injuries second only to Silicon Valley, Industry,Trade and Labour extension of a 5-year and heart disease. With the with electronics and lead on funding industrial moratorium on reproductive goal of making the UK biotechnology at the heart R&D and the Ministry of cloning. Israel’s partner of choice for of fast-growing high-tech Science and Technology research and commercial Science Policy industries. determines public research collaboration in stem cells, policy and international Tel Aviv’s S&T officer Tel Aviv’s S&T section has Relative to its population, science relations. Both organised a mission of responded to a range of Israel has one of the most ministries are interested in leading Israeli academics and requests from customers highly educated workforces capitalising fully on the companies to Scotland, with including requests from the in the world. It has the commercial potential of the the assistance of Scottish DTI, Lord Sainsbury’s Office, largest number of publishing technologies emerging from Development International. the Treasury and Research authors in the natural the country’s excellent The mission resulted in Councils UK. Requests have sciences, engineering, research network. stronger links between UK ranged from Israel’s policy agriculture and medicine. It and Israeli academia and on cloning to information on is second only to the US in Highlights of 2004 include companies. Israeli mechanisms for the number of publications two Israeli Nobel prize international collaboration. in leading life sciences winners in chemistry The S&T officer also worked (Professor Aaron together with UKTI to magazines, and ranks third in Science for Wealth the world in patents after Chiechanover and Professor support two missions on Creation the US and Japan. Israel's Avraham Hershko for their technical textiles.This is a work on cancer); the new and emerging sector spending on civilian R&D in The UK and Israel are government’s announcement dealing with intelligent 2002 was 4.2% of GDP, leaders in stem cell research. of priority funding for the textiles with applications above the OECD average. This has the potential to from medical diagnostic revolutionise treatment for S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:39 AM Page 67
equipment to protecting the students to research taking Science for Public 67 body from sweat or bacteria. place in both countries and Diplomacy The missions aimed to create new ties.
benchmark new Israeli Collaborations have already Tel Aviv’s S&T section materials and their started both between collaborated with the British technologies and to take several groups of Council in Israel on a Café advantage of Israeli participating researchers Scientifique led by Dr Tom developments through and with Industry. Shakespeare from technology transfer to Newcastle’s Centre for Life The second event, the enhance UK industry. – the first UK institution to UK-Israel workshop on The first mission resulted receive a licence for nanobiotechnology took in participation in a therapeutic cloning for place at Ben Gurion technical textiles research. The event aimed University in the Negev and conference 4 months later. to promote UK leadership in consisted of one day of stem cell research and Science Collaboration presentations to a wide regulation.The Embassy’s audience and a second day S&T officer was one of the Two joint events took place of round table discussions moderators.The audience, in 2004 under the Science between the UK participants which included the lay public Networking Development and Israeli scientists.This as well as researchers and Scheme. The second workshop has also yielded policy makers from Israel UK-Israel Symposium on collaborations, student and the UK, participated in Computer Graphics took exchanges and discussions lively discussions. place at the Technion (Haifa), on joint applications to EU with additional support from funding programmes (such the University of Haifa.The as the Human Frontier objectives of the event were Science Programme). to reinforce existing collaborations, identify areas of mutual interests, expose S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:39 AM Page 68
South Africa Johannesburg and Pretoria
68 Country Profile development, and promotion Technology (DST) and New distributed in South Africa, of technology Partnership for Africa’s and there is a lot of interest The National System of implementation.The councils Development (NEPAD), to in the ethical issues that this Innovation in South Africa cover areas such as engage and input into the science raises. (SA) sets a policy framework agriculture, industry, process.This was especially Science for Wealth for social and economic minerals, medicine, geology, important, as the Creation development through a standardisation and quality Commission had very little science and technology systems, energy, water, focus on S&T for Post works closely with knowledge base.To boost its fisheries and the development. UKTI to forge links between science and technology environment. South Africa innovators and technology research, the Innovation has bilateral S&T agreements The S&I section also helped companies in UK and South Fund and The National with some 30 countries. in engaging OST and NEPAD Africa.At UKTI missions, we Research Foundation (NRF) on African development.The Science Policy brief technology companies were established, visit of Gordon Conway, on S&T in South Africa, and incorporating the Chief Scientific Adviser to UK’s presidency of EU and the S&I officer has assisted Foundation for Research the Department for G8 has raised much interest UKTI with the IATS mission, Development (FRD) and the International Development in South Africa, particularly automotive seminar, the Centre for Science to South Africa also at the Commission for clean coal technology Development of the Human reinforced the importance of Africa, where they have mission, the renewable Sciences Research Council S&T for development, and formed the basis of the energy mission, and the (HSRC). Statutory science provided an opportunity to policy agenda. Our focus was climate change mission.The councils are responsible for explore a SA/UK on encouraging science section works with UKTI’s science and technology partnership for pushing the institutions, especially Inward Investment Group to development, innovation and development agenda. Department of Science and promote UK as an S&T base transfer, the promotion of The UK nanotechnology by promoting UK’s national human resources strategy has been widely R&D facilities such as the Diamond Synchrotron. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:39 AM Page 69
The Innovation Science and The S&I section published a 69 Technology fair helped to brochure of UK launch the Inward opportunities for research investment arm of UKTI via and collaboration, such as an exhibition on UK the Dorothy Hodgkin opportunities in S&T. Scholarships, Chevening Scholars, etc).This has been Science Collaboration circulated to S&T institutions throughout The S&I section has been South Africa, to raise the working to increase uptake profile of the UK as partner of collaborative schemes by of choice. S&T institutions throughout
South Africa. Schemes UK attendance at the include the 1996 Royal International Science & Society/National Research Technology (IST) fair included Foundation programme for OST,Research Councils, and enabling black researchers, British Council. encouraging UK/SA
academic R&D DST and S&I section have collaborations and identified several key areas establishing centres of for co-operation: themed excellence.The UK/SA events through the networking agreement was a networking scheme and mobility grant for South British Council’s Young African and UK scientists.An Scientists Networking agreement to co-operate on Scheme; promotion of research in animal diseases opportunities for was also signed. collaboration between UK S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:39 AM Page 70
70 and South Africa; S&T for scientists to the UK to meet A side event was the Phillip sustainable development, Research Councils and their Tobias Lecture, modelled after with the UK as core group; counterparts in other the Zuckerman Lecture series, and mechanisms for sharing universities to explore and inaugurated by UK policy, such as a paper on collaborative opportunities Nobel laureate Sidney the DST system and how SA on projects in material Brenner. Other prominent uses the UK’s research science and defence/aviation. UK scientists such as assessment system. We are liaising with DST to Dr Karpas (Cambridge evolve this and include University) spoke at parallel DST is pushing for South younger scientists. events. African involvement in the EU Framework Programme, Science for The S&I section promotes and the S&I section feeds Public Diplomacy UK as partner of choice by into these programmes via showcasing cutting-edge workshops held for EU The UK participated at the technologies on its website, states. It is hoped that Department of Science and and broadly distributing programmes started by post, Technology’s IST fair: science magazines to raise such as the institutional Sustainable Development, awareness, not only of partnering programme, will Science and Technology – science, but also of UK’s address a fundamental Challenges Ahead.The UK scientific excellence. problem with EU funding – exhibited and showcased namely how to access UK’s renewable and research consortia. environmental technologies, space technologies, We initiated an institutional partnerships with South partnering programme by Africa, and opportunities for taking South African investment into the UK. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:39 AM Page 71
Science and the International Priorities Country Activities
This chapter sets out how the Science & Innovation Network has contributed 71 towards the other FCO International Strategic Priorities. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:39 AM Page 72
Science and the International Priorities Country Activities
72 Tsunami and Early Warning Systems – Posts have opportunities and scientific collaboration opportunities for provided input on science issues related to the Indian Ocean FSU scientists formerly employed in the defence sector.An tsunami disaster and future assessment of global natural MOU was signed in Moscow in November 2004 between hazards and development of early warning systems. RosAtom and the DTI.
SP1 – A world safer from global terrorism SP3 – An international system based on the and weapons of mass destruction rule of law
Italy: Biotechnology Code of Ethics The science team in UN Cloning – All posts have been involved in lobbying on Rome has been tasked by the FCO to work closely with UN discussions on reproductive and therapeutic cloning. Italy’s International Centre for Genetic Engineering and World opinion was shifted to avoid a divisive and Biotechnology, to assist in drafting a code of ethics for unproductive vote on a possible ban on all forms of cloning in international biotechnology scientists. the autumn. Instead, the General Assembly adopted a political declaration emphasising the importance of this subject in USA: Homeland Security The US’s first bilateral S&T February. UK interests have been promoted to actively Agreement on homeland security opens the door for closer encourage therapeutic cloning research.This offers huge UK/US collaboration and information exchange on security- potential to develop new cures for life threatening diseases, related science and technology, leading to co-ordinated which affect many millions of people.There is also greater research and possible commercial opportunities. worldwide understanding and interest in how the UK has encouraged debate on the ethical issues and developed a Russia: Redeployment of chemical weapons scientists rigorous, regulatory approach. Following initial contact with a British company, facilitated by the Embassy, over $250k was invested in Volgograd for SP4 – An effective EU in a secure neighbourhood developing the production of fire retardant chemicals.This created employment for 50 former chemical weapons EU Framework Programme – European posts remain in workers. close contact with their counterparts on FP7 issues and innovation.This includes working-level visits, in both Russia: Nuclear Security Considerable progress has been directions, on specific areas of interest. Science officers work made on the Closed Nuclear Cities programme to promote closely with officers in EU & Economic sections to provide peace and security by maximising civil employment input on science and innovation issues (e.g. Cardiff report, S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:40 AM Page 73
Lisbon agenda, state aid regulations, competitiveness). Other structures, governance and incentives, and lessons learned 73 posts e.g. US, Canada, China, Korea also work with from existing mechanisms, and fed into the Commission for counterparts to develop EU-bilateral relations in science and Africa and G8 process. Both Canada and the UK take a leading innovation. role in the international development arena, and Canada has a unique structure in the International Development Research SP6 – Sustainable development, underpinned by Centre. By working in partnership with Canada, we are democracy, good governance and human rights. therefore able to exploit the knowledge and experience already built up in this area in both countries, and to maximise Africa/ Canada/ UK workshop: Building science and the scope of the workshop by pooling funding. technology capacity with African partners This event engaged high level contacts to consider how the UK and Canada can work more effectively with African partners to build S&T capacity in Africa. Discussions spanned domestic
Sir David King, Silas Lwakabamba (Rector, Kigali Institute of Science, Technology and Management, Rwanda) and Walter Erdelen (Assistant DG for Natural Sciences, UNESCO at the “Building S&T Capacity with African Partners” workshop. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:40 AM Page 74
74 China: Food Safety Staff in Chongqing organised a Japan: Infectious Diseases In November, the Embassy conference on how governments can make food safer. hosted a seminar by Lord May (President of the Royal Experts from the Health Protection Agency, the Food Society) on infectious diseases.The Japanese have now invited Standards Agency and the WHO briefed more than 100 the UK to be represented at a Japan/US expert workshop on Chinese provincial and national food safety regulators on the spread of infectious diseases.We hope to use this opening systems for dealing with chemical hazards, microbial to build collaboration with Japan in this key area. pathogens and the certification of foods such as organics. China is in the process of strengthening/reforming regulation Korea: Sustainable Development Seminar A joint in this area.The conference enabled the UK to communicate seminar on sustainable development organised with the its approach.An accompanying press event led to significant German Embassy in June 2004 included UK representation coverage in local media. Follow-up contact is expected from the British Sustainable Development Commission, and between the UK and Chinese agencies. the Town and Country Planning Commission.This resulted in strong links with the Korean Presidential Commission on Sustainable Development, and Korean representation at the Dr. Martin Evison (University of Sheffield) and Dr. Marco Aurélio Scottish Executive’s launch of UK’s sustainable development Guimarães at the forensic anthropology lab in CEMEL, the Medico-Legal Centre at the University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil." strategy in March 2004.
Brazil: Forensic Science Project This joint project between the universities of São Paulo and Sheffield aims to develop forensic anthropology capacity at CEMEL (medical legal centre in the city of Ribeirão Preto).The purpose is to better resolve forensic cases related to the identification of victims of violent crimes, human rights violations, executions and torture. Sheffield will aid CEMEL in setting up a forensic anthropology lab to develop local scientific capacity in skeletal analysis and identification, facial reconstruction, autopsy and DNA profiling. British specialists also provide training in the UK and locally. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:40 AM Page 75
SP7 – Climate change and security of UK Canadian Centre for Housing Technology in Ottawa.They 75 met with scientists and others in the field to showcase UK and global energy supplies expertise, discuss best practice and build the potential for
ITER – Many posts have been involved in influencing UK-Canada collaboration.As a result, further discussions are negotiations on the future siting of ITER.This is the next step already underway, e.g. with UK window manufacturers, and in fusion research to show that fusion can produce useful there is interest in using UK expertise in energy rating and energy. post-occupancy evaluation of buildings.A group of Canadians, led by the principal contact for the Ottawa meeting, will visit
Canada:Arctic science planning and logistics seminar the UK in October 2005 for follow-up discussions. This seminar focussed on scientific co-operation, the International Polar Year (IPY) in 2007-8,and climate change USA: Global Warming Working with the California and Arctic policy. It brought together researchers, funders and Governor on the Global Warming Initiative of the West government departments from the UK and Canada, as well as Coast Governors, in support of the Prime Minister’s G8 representatives of Canada’s northern communities and priority on climate change.The San Francisco team is working research organisations. Plans were developed for joint with the Governors’ advisers on UK attendance at a key working on IPY as well as the potential sharing of Arctic conference on Climate Change science and impacts on the research equipment, research stations and ships (including EU West Coast. vessels).Arctic research is key to understanding climate USA: Electrochemical Energy Storage Support of change and its impacts as well as capacity building in local mission that covered San Francisco,Albuquerque, Denver, communities. Given that Canada is a key Arctic nation, Detroit, Boston, Newark and Washington DC. Mission enhanced UK-Canada scientific co-operation so early in the members were able to review new and emerging IPY process opens the door to an increased level of access electrochemical storage devices for stationary, portable and to Canadian research and infrastructure for the UK in the transport applications and evaluate potential collaboration long term. and business opportunities.
Canada: Low carbon buildings mission Energy-efficient USA: Renewable Energy Forum at World Renewable buildings are an important way of mitigating climate change.A Energy Congress A joint initiative between science and delegation of UK staff from academia, Research Councils, environment officers and UKTI.A strong UK policy message Carbon Trust and low carbon building industries visited the on climate change and renewable energy was delivered by the S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:40 AM Page 76
76 then Energy Minister Stephen Timms.The forum showcased USA: Renewable Energy Mission Co-hosted with UKTI, best practice from the UK on advancing the take up of involving eight UK companies on visits to local utilities renewable energy. UK speakers highlighted opportunities for (power and water delivery companies) and a reception to the growth of renewable energy markets and technology introduce them to California government energy and differences between the UK and US, bringing out investment environment personnel. Several companies are now in talks mechanisms, barriers to development and the need for a with the local (Southern California) utilities on future funding long-term consistent regulatory environment. of research and development.
China and India: Flooding and Coastal Defences Steven Timms and Andrew Mill at the World Renewable Discussions are underway to draw on the UK’s Foresight Energy Congress, Denver. Flood and Costal Defence project, which uses cutting-edge science and advanced modelling techniques against a backdrop of future climate change and socio-economic scenarios, to input to future policy development on climate change.
Japan: Climate change modelling The UK has a world- leading climate change model while Japan has the world’s most powerful supercomputer, the Earth Simulator.The Embassy brought key players on both sides together and provided pump-priming funding for initial collaboration.This has now come to fruition with the posting of 6 UK researchers to the Earth Simulator for 3 years to undertake joint research.The results will directly contribute to our G8 climate change science aims as well as giving the UK access to a piece of $500m equipment.The Foreign Secretary led the launch event in January, with presentations by the heads of the organisations involved to 100 policymakers and scientists. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:40 AM Page 77
Japan: Energy and Sustainability With GOF funding, we of researcher exchanges to bring together the key players. 77 are promoting UK/Japan interactions on a range of Ideas for collaboration are now emerging.We plan to support sustainability issues to accelerate research in key areas a follow-up workshop in May and a further round of through collaboration, and to give UK scientists access to researcher exchanges to help bring these ideas to fruition. some of the world’s best-funded centres of expertise.The Starting in autumn 2004, we are funding a series of researcher Japanese are making a massive investment in research on fuel exchanges on a range of topics including renewable energy cells and hydrogen, with spending this year of £165m.The for buildings, reuse of urban residential stocks and new Embassy has supported two expert workshops and a series materials for building.
Foreign Secretary Jack Straw with the leaders of the research organisations involved in the climate change collaboration, and the British scientists based at the Earth Simulator Centre. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:40 AM Page 78
78 Korea: Climate Change Policy Sir David King’s climate France: Climate Change Policy Sir David King delivered change seminar during his ITER visit to an influential audience the UK message on climate change at the highest level to an was a step forward in the campaign to swing Korea towards audience of French Government officials and business implementing the Kyoto Protocol and joining REEEP. leaders. (A top official in the Environment Ministry requested a copy of the speech to present to her Minister.) Follow up work with contacts made at the event has raised awareness of UK climate change policy considerably within the French Government.Tangible evidence of this includes a joint press article on the challenge of climate change by French and British Foreign Affairs and Environment Ministers, published on the front page of national daily Le Monde.The British example has empowered French Ministers to take climate change issues seriously and France now looks to the UK as a leader on climate change issues and has just pledged active support for the climate change objectives of our G8 presidency.
Korea join the REEEP: Minister Lee Hee-Beom with Patrica Hewitt (former Secretary of State for Trade and Industry) and Margaret Beckett (Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs). S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:40 AM Page 79
Germany: Berlin Climate Change Conference Joint Germany: Lords’ Select Committee Visit Together with 79 working between environment and science teams ensured a the Environment Team,we organised a visit by the House of strong scientific component to this significant event, which Lords Science & Technology Committee’s Subcommittee on formed part of the Queen’s state visit.The conference Energy Efficiency to Berlin and Munich.The Committee brought together 170 scientists, policy makers, industry sought evidence on policies currently in place in other EU leaders, financial institutions and other stakeholders from the countries for reducing carbon dioxide emissions and looked UK and Germany to explore how science could meet the at research in this sector to see how well it transfers to challenge of climate change, how business could help put new applications. technologies into practice, and how financial institutions could contribute. Follow-up included an MOU that will Russia: Seminar on Science of Climate Change The provide a framework for collaborating on climate change visit by Sir David King and other leading scientists was science, a Bilateral Action Plan to outline future activity, two dominated by politics, but provided an important opportunity GOF-funded seminars on specific aspects of climate change, to build influence and present expert information that led to and production of the Conference Report to coincide with Russian ratification of the Kyoto protocol. the beginning of our G8 presidency.
Her Majesty the Queen meets Sir David King (Chief Scientific Adviser) at the Climate Change Conference, Berlin.
Courtesy of foto di matti S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:40 AM Page 80 S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:40 AM Page 81
ANNEX 1 Science & Innovation Network Posts
Americas Asia-Pacific Europe Poland 81 Warsaw Brazil Australia Austria Brasilia* Canberra Vienna Portugal Sao Paulo Lisbon* China Belgium Canada Beijing Brussels* Russia Ottawa Chongqing Moscow Guangzhou Czech Republic Mexico Hong Kong* Prague Spain Mexico City* Shanghai Madrid* Denmark USA India Copenhagen Sweden Atlanta Bangalore Stockholm Boston New Delhi France Chicago* Paris Switzerland Japan Denver* Berne Houston Osaka Germany Los Angeles Tokyo Berlin Other New York* Munich Malaysia San Francisco Israel Ireland Seattle* Kuala Lumpur* Tel Aviv Washington Dublin* Singapore South Africa Singapore Italy Pretoria Milan South Korea Rome Seoul Netherlands Taiwan The Hague Taipei
*No dedicated Science officer S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:41 AM Page 82
ANNEX 2 Science & Innovation Network Profiles
82 London Science & Richard Jones – Deputy Head Brazil Canada Richard joined Innovation Group Sao Paulo Ottawa the Group in Fiona Clouder Richards – Alexandra Ozorio de Almeida Julia Hinde – First Secretary March 2003 Head of Science & Innovation – Science & Technology (Science & Technology) on return Fiona Clouder Officer Julia Hinde – from a four Richards Alexandra First Secretary year posting as joined the joined the (Science & First Secretary (Inward FCO in British Technology) Investment) in Tokyo. During October 2001 Consulate Julia joined the that time he worked closely from the General in Network in with colleagues in the Research Councils. Her career October 2003. February 2002.A Cambridge Embassy’s S&T Section and has included science policy, She has a Masters degree in University graduate, she Commercial Department and research management and Political Science from the worked on regional saw first hand the mutual international relations.With a University of São Paulo where newspapers before spending benefits of such collaboration. background in Neurosciences, she specialised in Post-War three years as a science He has had a range of bilateral her posts have included Brazilian Nuclear Policy. Before journalist for the Times Higher and multilateral political jobs Physical Sciences, Manufacturing joining the S&I Network, she Education Supplement. In 1999 including, since 1985, Deputy Engineering, Biosciences and worked as a journalist for the she moved to Australia and Head of the Human Rights Private Secretary. For the last greater part of her professional worked freelance contributing Unit in the FCO, DHM in Suva, 14 years her work has involved life. For six years she was a to New Scientist, the Times and Head of Central America international relations in journalist at one of Brazil’s and the Independent among Section of the Latin America science and technology, most respected and widely others publications. Department, giving him broad including leading the UK read dailies, Folha de S.Paulo, experience in policy and Research Office in Brussels and latterly in the post of Assistant management issues. close liaison with the FCO Science Editor. Science officers around the world. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:41 AM Page 83
Science & Innovation Network Profiles
Julie Wright-de Hennin – USA Phil Budden – First Secretary Joshua Mandell – Senior 83 Science & Technology Officer Washington (Science & Technology) Science & Technology Officer Julie joined the Julian Braithwaite Phil joined the Prior to Network in – Counsellor (Global Issues) S&I Network joining the May 2002. She In fall 2004, in mid-2004 as Embassy in has a PhD in Julian joined the First 2003, Joshua biophysics the S&I Secretary Mandell from Imperial Network as responsible for was an College London, and spent Head of the Innovation, Science and environmental scientist and three years doing medical Global Issues Technology. He has been at the policy consultant to the United research at the Prince of Wales Group where he leads the Embassy since 2002 covering a States Air Force. Joshua also Medical Research Institute in Trade,Transport, range of information and spent six years in the private Sydney,Australia. She then Energy/Environment, and communications technology sector where he performed worked for high-tech fibre Science/Technology policy (ICT) issues, alongside policy on services in geology, hydrology, optic components company teams in the Embassy. Before IP, extraterritoriality, competition geographic information JDS Uniphase in Ottawa. coming to Washington DC, and consumer protection, and systems, remote sensing and Julian most recently served as transatlantic economic relations. environmental regulatory Eleanor Fast – Science and Director of Communications Before coming to Washington policy. He also served in the Technology Assistant to the Office of the High DC, Phil has worked in the Office of the Vice President at Having moved Representative in Sarajevo. Cabinet Office, Foreign Office the White House and the Vice to Canada Julian has also previously and British Embassy in Vienna on President’s National Advance from the UK worked for Number 10, the a range of European, economic Staff for the 2000 presidential in 1998, United Nations and NATO. He and high-tech topics. He has a election. Josh earned his degree Eleanor has a holds a BA from Cambridge doctorate in international from George Mason University MSc in University and Masters of political economy. in Fairfax,Virginia. biodiversity from McGill Public Administration from University in Montreal. She Harvard University where he has held a variety of attended as a Kennedy Scholar. positions in both scientific research and administration, most recently working for the career service of McGill University. Eleanor joined the Network in August 2003. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:41 AM Page 84
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84 Jonathan Temple – Policy College of Idaho with a Stefan Winkler – Vice-Consul at RepliGen Corporation in Advisor, Energy & Bachelors of Science in biology (Science & Technology) Massachusetts. She joined the Environment and Science & with a minor in chemistry. Stefan has a Network in May 2003. Technology David relocated to Atlanta for PhD in Jonathan graduate study in microbiology Biotechnology advises on a and molecular genetics at Engineering Houston full range of Emory University. from Tufts May Akrawi – Vice-Consul energy policy University and (Science & Technology) issues joins from the technology May has a including Boston consultancy Arthur D Little BSc in energy technology Mark Sinclair – Consul where he was manager of Biochemistry development and energy (Science & Technology) biotechnology R&D. In his spare and PhD in markets. Jonathan has worked Mark has a time, Stefan also teaches Molecular in the Embassy since 1988 and BSc in undergraduate and graduate Biology, both prior to that worked in UK Engineering students in bioengineering at from University College nuclear sector. Science and an Tufts University where he London (UCL). She has worked MBA from holds an adjunct faculty as a science analyst for a major Imperial position. He joined the Boston law firm, and most recently set Atlanta College, specialising in team in May 2002. up the European office in David Muller – Vice Consul entrepreneurship. He spent London for a US biotech (Science & Technology) much of his previous career company, In Vitro Technologies. David joined with the Ministry of Defence, Neelangi Gunasekera – She also worked with the the Consulate- leading a research team, as a Science & Technology Wellcome Trust on the ”Public General in customer for the strategic Assistant Understanding of Science’. May Atlanta in May research programmes and as Neelangi has a joined the British Consulate- 2004. Prior to private secretary to the BS in Journalism General in Houston, in April joining the Defence Chief Scientific and MA in 2002, to set up the S&T British Consulate, David held a Adviser. He moved to the Communications section.The Houston S&T management position at an Office of Science & Technology from Illinois team covers Texas, Colorado, international energy where he was assistant State University. Louisiana, New Mexico, corporation based in Atlanta. director for science and Previously, Neelangi worked in Arkansas and Oklahoma. David is a native of Idaho and technology strategy. He arrived Investor Relations at Weber graduated from Albertson in Boston in November 2001. Shandwick in Chicago and then S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:41 AM Page 85
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Catherine Santamaria – Los Angeles Jennifer Boynton – Science & Research Station and Lancaster 85 Science & Technology Malcolm McLean – Technology Assistant University. She joined the Assistant Vice-Consul (Science & Jennifer Cabinet Office in 1996 and Catherine Technology) obtained a BA worked in a variety of roles joined the Malcolm holds Honors in including as a Private Secretary British a BSc, MS & Sociology at to a Minister, on the BSE Consulate- PhD in Pitzer College, Inquiry, in the Performance and General in Inorganic California. She Innovation Unit and most February Chemistry, joined the S&I Network in recently on energy and 2005.A German major at The spent two August 2003. Her main transport policy in the Cabinet Colorado College, she later years working as a Ministry of responsibilities include Secretariat. She arrived in San moved to Tokyo, Japan to teach Defence scientist in the UK, organizing events and Francisco in October 2001. English at a private then four years as a post- receptions, briefing the Vice- conversation school. She also doctoral researcher on Consul on UK and US policy worked in a Japanese business polymers and optoelectronics developments, identifying Stephen Lynn – Vice-Consul software company. Returning to at the University of Southern opportunities for research (Science & Technology) Houston in 2001, Catherine California. He spent four years collaboration, and representing Stephen later worked at the Houston Vice President of Technology at the US S&I Network at official obtained his World Affairs Council, an Harvey Universal meetings. PhD in educational non-profit (Environmental Products), four Molecular dedicated to promoting Years as CEO of a small, Physiology at education and awareness of privately held environmental San Francisco the University international issues and U.S. technology company, Sharima Rasanayagam – of Newcastle upon Tyne, and foreign policy. International Ecoscience and Consul (Science & Technology) spent four years as a post- three years running his own Sharima doctoral researcher working business selling into the obtained a on the genetics of diabetes. In Japanese market. He arrived in PhD in 2001, Stephen moved to the Los Angeles in April 2002. Microbiology University of California, San at the Francisco to study mechanisms University of involved in neurodegeneration Kent at Canterbury, and spent associated with ageing, and in three years as a post-doctoral September 2002, he moved to researcher at Long Ashton Stanford University to S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:41 AM Page 86
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86 complete his studies in the Australia Jade Sharples – Science & China Neurology and Neurological Canberra Technology Officer Beijing Sciences department. He took Fiona Ratcliff – Science & Jade obtained Robin Porter – Counsellor up his post as Science and Innovation Officer a PhD in plant (Science & Innovaton) Technology Vice Consul in Fiona began as physiology Robin has 35 November 2003. Science & from the years Innovation University of experience as Officer in Western an academic Doreen Reid – Research April 2005. Sydney in 2000.A significant China Assistant, Science & Before joining part of her PhD research was specialist in Technology the team, she worked at the performed at the Institute of the UK, Canada and Australia, Doreen took Federation of Australian Terrestrial Ecology, Huntingdon most recently as Professor of up her Scientific and Technological UK. On completion of her Asian Business at La Trobe position at the Societies where she organised thesis, she relocated to University. His PhD from SOAS British a series of meetings between Canberra to take up a focused on China’s early Consulate in scientists and politicians in an postdoctoral fellowship at the industrialization, and March 2004. effort to foster closer Australian National University publications include books and Before joining the Network, relations. Fiona has also to focus on the effect of articles on the modern she worked for Scottish worked at Questacon – climate change on plant-soil development of both China Development International Australia’s National Science and interactions. Jade then became and Hong Kong. He has (SDI), Scotland’s economic Technology Centre, and has an intellectual property analyst, previously worked in China, development agency, where she also managed a biology where she researched the and was for several years full- had responsibility for a outreach programme for numerous forms of intellectual time adviser to a major UK portfolio of 63 predominately school children. She is property protection used to on industry on technology transfer high-tech companies located currently completing a Master scientific techniques and to China. throughout North America. She of Science Communication invention with an emphasis on graduated from the University degree and also holds a degree biotechnology and agriculture. of Glasgow, Scotland in 1989 in neuroscience. Jade is currently completing with an MA joint honors her Diploma in Law and took degree in French & German. up the new S&T post in Canberra in June 2004. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:41 AM Page 87
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David Concar – First Du Ying – Senior Project Helena Ou – Administrator worked as Culture Exchange 87 Secretary (Science & Officer (Science & Innovation) and PA to Counsellor (Science Co-ordinator in Japan. She first Innovation) Mrs. Du holds & Innovation) joined the British Embassy in David joined the degree of Helena is a July 2003 as Entry Clearance the FCO in Bachelor of graduate of Assistant, and transferred to 2004 after a Law from Southwest the science and innovation career in the Peking University in operation in May 2005. media. He was University. She Chongqing, Deputy Editor worked for a number of years and is of the New Scientist from for the Chinese Ministry of currently engaged in a Masters Shanghai 1996 to 2004, and the Foreign Affairs, initially as Third programme part-time. She Nick Khosla – Consul (Science magazine’s Life Sciences Editor Secretary in the Chinese previously worked for the & Technology) from 1991 to 1996. From 1989 Embassy in Suriname, and then Ethiopian Embassy, and then for The FCO to 1991 he worked for the as Second Secretary in the the multinational company appointed journal Nature, first in London Netherlands. She first joined Lucent Technologies for several Nick in and then in Washington DC. In the British Embassy in 1996 as years prior to joining the February 2000 David spent a sabbatical a senior commercial Science & Innovation team in 2004. He is a year working as a radio and TV representative, and transferred Beijing in 2003. chartered science correspondent at the to the science and technology engineer and he holds a BSc BBC in London. In 2003 he set operation in 1998. She is degree in Engineering from the up a TV production co-venture currently Senior Project Katy Fu – Project Officer University of Wales and a MSc for the New Scientist which Officer in the S&I Section, (Science & Innovation) from Birmingham University. co-produced programmes for Beijing. Katy Previously, Nick worked the Discovery Channel and graduated internationally on major Channel 4. David has a PhD in from North engineering and environmental what used to be called China Electric projects in the Private Sector, biochemistry. Power and worked as a Trade Adviser University with the DTI. In July 1999, with a Bachelor degree in Nick worked as Trade International Trade. Her work Commissioner (Projects) at experience started with a Visa the British Consulate-General Officer job at New Zealand Hong Kong. Immigration Service. Later she S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:41 AM Page 88
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88 Anna Lindahl – Senior Project Frank Yuan – Senior Project King Kong – Project Officer Chongqing Officer (Science & Innovation) Officer (Science & Innovation) (Science & Innovation) Grace Lang – Senior Project Anna joined Frank studied King is a Officer (Science & Innovation) the Embassy in architecture at graduate of Grace first Beijing in June Tsinghua Shanghai joined the 2002. She has University in Jiaotong British studied and Beijing(B.Arch) University, Consulate worked in and social where he General in China for close to four years, science at the London School majored in Electronic 2003 and among other places in Beijing, of Economics(M Sc). He joined Engineering. He also developed transferred to the S&I network Chengdu and Shanghai, and has the British Consulate General a deep interest in marketing. in September 2004. She holds travelled extensively all over in Shanghai in 2002. Frank After working on several an MA (Hons) from the Sichuan the country. She transferred to worked on a number of projects for an advertising International Studies University the Consulate in Shanghai in science-related projects before company, he joined the British (SISU) in China. Before joining May 2003 to manage S&T joining the Consulate, including Consulate-general in Shanghai the Consulate, she worked as a projects for Think UK. From the Shanghai Science and in 2004 as a campaign co- lecturer in SISU. April 2004,Anna became a Technology Museum and a ordinator for the 2005 UK- permanent member of staff at science park. He has worked China Partners in Science the Consulate in Shanghai. on a number of reports /events initiative. Guangzhou Anna has BA and BSc degrees of various topics and been Nigel Birch – Consul (Science from Stockholm University. building network of contacts & Innovation) for the S&I section in Shanghai. Bronte Zhang – Project Nigel joined Officer (Science & Innovation) the Network in Bronte joined May 2005 as the S&I Consul for network in Science & Shanghai in Innovation in 2004, having Guangzhou, the first science post previously there. He graduated with a worked in the British Consulate- degree in botany from the General’s Visa Section as an University of Wales, Bangor and Entry Clearance Officer. She his first job was in tsetse control holds a BA degree in Economics. in Zambia. Since then he has had a long career with the UK S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:42 AM Page 89
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Research Councils managing a India private sector, including working joining, she worked in 89 wide variety of science and New Delhi on an environmental impact Monsanto’s regulatory engineering programmes, most Sarah Bamber – First survey for the new Hong Kong department where she handled recently being involved in Secretary (Science & airport. Prior to India, his the regulatory aspects of EPSRC’s ICT Programme, its Innovation) diplomatic career has seen him commercialisation of genetically international group and managing Sarah has serving in Mozambique, Saudi modified crops in the country. relations with institutions in the been First Arabia and Yugoslavia. She also has been involved in East of England. Secretary giving talks to senior school (Science & students on rudiments of Innovation) in Shweta Datt – Science and biotechnology and applications Adee Zai – Science & New Delhi Technology Assistant of agricultural biotechnology. Innovation Officer since the middle of 2004. Upon Shweta joined Adee joined completion of a degree in the S & T the newly- Geography at Oxford section in Bangalore established University Sarah joined the September Amrita Sadarangani – Science Science and FCO in 1996. Her first posting 2003. Shweta & Technology Adviser Innovation was to the UK Mission to the has studied Amrita joined Section in the United Nations in New York. Commerce at University of the British British Consulate-General in Delhi. Before joining British Trade Office in Guangzhou in May 2005. She High Commission, New Delhi, Bangalore in holds a Masters degree with Thomas Mark Tomlinson – Shweta worked in the travel February 2003. Distinction from Aberdeen Second Secretary industry for ten years. Her University in Information (Science & Technology) background in the life sciences Technology, and has recently Mark joined includes a MSc in Biochemistry completed an MSc by thesis for the Network Swati Saxena – Science & and two years of research the University of Warwick in E- in August Technology Officer work on the molecular biology Business. Prior to joining the 2002. He has a Swati joined of cancer.Amrita also has Consulate she was involved in a BSc in Physics S&T Section of experience in healthcare B2B e-business project, initiated from British High communications: before joining by the Inter-Lean E-Business Southampton University. Before Commission, the S&I Network she worked Centre in Coventry, to create a joining the Foreign & New Delhi in for Ogilvy Public Relations West Midlands Collaborative Commonwealth Office, Mark August 2003. Worldwide, Mumbai servicing Commerce Marketplace. spent several years in the She has a Masters in Genetics medical and healthcare clients. from Delhi University. Before S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:42 AM Page 90
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90 Bangalore and then Tokyo. Philippa has Tadashi Shirai – Senior from the John F. Kennedy Soffia Dayel – Science & responsibility for life sciences Science & Innovation Officer School of Government at Innovation Adviser (from May and nanotechnology. Prior to Tadashi has a Harvard University. Before 2005) joining FCO, Philippa worked BSc in Physics. joining the British Embassy in for the UK Research Councils His 2003, she worked as a for 12 years. responsibilities journalist at major newspapers Japan include and wire services. Tokyo monitoring and Barbara Ellington – Counsellor Paul Johnson – First reporting on developments in (Science & Innovation) Secretary (Science & information technology, Ryozo Tanaka – Senior Barbara has a Technology) telecommunications, electronics Science & Innovation Officer degree in Following an and space and marine science. Ryozo joined Natural early career in Tadashi joined the British the S&I Sciences from overseas oil Embassy in 1974 and is the Section in Cambridge exploration longest-serving member of the April 2005. His University and and geot- S&I Section. responsibilities an MBA from the London echnical include Business School. Her career has consulting, Paul became Head of monitoring and reporting on included work on higher the Department for Transport’s energy & environment, Yaeko Mitsumori – Senior education policy in the UK and (Highways Agency) Forward chemicals and nanotechnology. Science & Technology Officer science and technology policy for Planning and Technology team. Before joining the Embassy, he Yaeko’s the Government of Hong Kong. Between 1999 and 2001 he was worked as a civil engineer responsibilities seconded to the Japanese mainly in energy related fields include Ministry of Transport researching such as nuclear power plants Philippa Rogers – First monitoring and intelligent transport systems. and hydrogen refueling stations. Secretary (Science & reporting on Paul has responsibility for He also worked as a researcher Technology) (Counsellor from Japanese energy, environment, transport at the Ministry of Trade, May 2005) industry developments and and information and commu- Economy and Industry, Philippa has governmental regulations in life nication technologies. monitoring the world oil market. been working sciences. She has a Master’s for the S&T Degree in Public Administration network since 1997, first in Washington S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:42 AM Page 91
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Katie Harrison – Global Tomoko Watanabe – Science section’s webpage (news English and American 91 Opportunities Fund & Innovation Officer bulletin) up to date and literature, and previously Programme Manager Tomoko distributes Japanese S&T worked at the Norwegian Katie joined joined the S&I newsletters and section Embassy in Tokyo. the Embassy in Section in reports to UK customers. September August 1996. Osaka 2003 to Her Ed Wright – Consul (Science manage the responsibilities Yumiko Amma – Science & & Innovation) (First Secretary, Innovation UK include assisting in the transfer Innovation Officer Tokyo, from May 2005) campaign. She had previously of information and technology Yumiko joined After taking a worked for Swiss Re in between Japan and the UK, the Embassy in PhD in Organic Corporate Communications in organizing visit programmes August 2002 Chemistry in London and New York. Katie for VIP visitors, compiling after working 2000, Ed now manages the Embassy’s programmes for seminars and for the received a Global Opportunities Fund workshops for visiting UK National Daiwa Anglo- Programme on climate change, scientists and dealing with Museum of Emerging Science & Japanese Scholarship to study energy and sustainability. S&I enquiries from the UK Innovation as an international Japanese in Tokyo for 2 years. and Japan. collaboration officer. Her role While in Japan, he undertook a includes support for the S&I 6 month work placement at the Seiko Oya – Science & Counsellor, organisation of VIP Japanese Pharmaceutical Innovation Officer Kaoru Kambe – Science & visitors’ programmes and Manufacturers Association Seiko Oya Technology Officer coordination on EU-related before returning to the UK to joined the S&I Kaoru joined matters. work as a technology investment Section in the Embassy in analyst. Ed took up post in 1995 and is October 1997. Osaka in June 2004. responsible for Her Yumiko Yamashita – Science organizing visit responsibilities & Innovation Assistant programmes for GlobalWatch include Yumiko joined mission teams and individual organising Global Watch the S&I UK visitors including VIPs, and Missions and other section in for arranging seminars mainly academic/VIP visitors’ November on environment and programmes and arranging 2004. She has engineering issues. seminars. She also keeps the a BA in S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:42 AM Page 92
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92 Chika Motomura Service where he was Peter Clusky – Deputy Christopher Tan – Senior (Assistant to Consul) Chairman of the UK-Russia Director Science & Technology Science & Technology Officer Chika High Technology Working (April – November 2005) Christopher Motomura Group and responsible for the Pete joined joined the joined the S&I establishment of the UK-Israel the team in S&T Section in section in BRITECH Foundation. In 2000 Singapore in Singapore in Osaka in May Brian joined the British late April 2005 May 2005 as a 2004. She Embassy in Tokyo and moved to on an Senior Science previously worked for the his current position in Overseas & Technology Officer. His Spanish Embassy in Tokyo. Singapore in January 2004. Attache Training Scheme responsibilities include attachment from UK Trade and promoting the UK as the Singapore Investment where he works as international partner of choice Singapore Vanessa Choo – Science and an International Trade Adviser in S&I collaboration and Brian Ferrar – First Secretary Technology Officer based in Exeter covering promoting capacity building in (Science & Technology) Vanessa joined Devon and Cornwall. Prior to developing countries in SE Asia. Brian spent the S&T joining UKTI Pete worked in He received an MBA from most of his Section in the private sector, then as a Nottingham University, a early career in Singapore in rural economist for the Masters in Health Services the UK April 2004. Farming and Rural Management from Flinders Department of She is a Conservation Agency, before University and a BEng in Energy. He graduate in Life Sciences from spending 3 years doing regional Chemical Engineering from joined DTI in 1992 and was part the National University of policy work on food and rural UMIST (now Manchester Univ). of the team responsible for the Singapore (NUS). During her business in Government Office Prior to the work in the S&T privatisation of AEA Technology studies she undertook a for the South West. Pete will section, he was working in plc. From 1996 to 1999 he was number of short-term jobs be spending much of his time the region, including Malaysia Assistant Director of the including at a Women’s clinic. establishing and managing the and China. Foresight Programme in the She also studied international team’s Sports Science and OST responsible for Health and business issues in Germany and Engineering six month Life Sciences, Materials, Professional Communications exhibition. Chemicals and Manufacturing. at the NUS. He then became Head of the DTI’s International Technology S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:42 AM Page 93
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Republic of Korea Kyejin Chay – Senior Trade Youngsun Soh – Senior Hyeyoung Kim – Science 93 Seoul and Science & Innovation Science & Innovation Officer Development Officer Jim Thomson – First Officer Youngsun was Hyeyoung Secretary (Science & Kyejin is the first full joined the Technology) responsible for time S&T team in August Jim has been the team’s work Officer in the 2004. She is in Seoul since in British responsible for March 2001. biotechnology, Embassy.With developing and The S&T team pharmaceuticals, the expansion of the team she is expanding collaboration is widely energy & environment. Her now responsible for the between UK and Korea in known for its activities include fundamental broadening science agenda and science, technology and dynamic and innovative science, business development our new Science,Technology and innovation. She is also approaches to promoting and science and environmental Innovation Partnership. In ICT, responsible for the Science & collaboration with Korea in policy, for example on electronics and games software Innovation content of the high impact areas. He has reproductive cloning, GMO, she has full commercial embassy websites. She integrated the group to work climate change and responsibility and works closely graduated from Sogang closely with his investment, development of new and with investment colleagues. In University in 1997 with an commercial, economic and renewable energy. She has 2002 she received the D Group MBA. Past experience includes press and public affairs extensive experience within the Gold Medal for exceptional and working at Templeton Asset colleagues, and is shaping its Embassy which she brings to sustained delivery in support of Management Ltd and the agenda to match Korea’s bear over the whole range of UK exporters.Youngsun studied Australian Embassy in Seoul. her work such as arranging English Literature and Linguistics rapidly evolving fundamental Mijeong Lee – Deputy Trade joint seminars with the German at Hankuk University of Foreign science capabilities. Jim came to and Science & Innovation Embassy. She has a BA in Studies, Seoul, Korea, including 6 Korea from the Ministry of Officer Defence. He has also worked Chemistry from Ewha Woman’s months spent on exchange at Mijeong joined for GEC and at Farnborough, University and spent 8 months the University of California at the team on aerospace R&D. He as a junior researcher at the Berkeley. She was awarded the in June 2003. graduated from Oxford in Organic Synthesis Laboratory BA in 1991, following which she She is Engineering Science, has PhD of the Korea Institute of S&T worked for a leading law firm responsible for from Cambridge, and is a (KIST). She was awarded an for three years. commercially Chartered Engineer and a Honorary MBE in 2004. oriented work in environment, Fellow of the Institution of healthcare, biotechnology and Electrical Engineers. instrumentation, providing S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:43 AM Page 94
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94 business prospects and She has experiences of working communication systems with Ginell Hsu – Science & commercial opportunities in in several multinational IBM,AT&T and Siemens before Technology Assistant Korea to UK customers. Her companies in Seoul, and spent joining British Trade and Ginell holds a current job also involves one year on English language Cultural Office in 2004. BA degree in supporting inward and outward and internship training in International missions and organising Canada from 1999-2000. Trade. She exhibitions and seminars in Jeremy Lin – Science & joined the related industries. Mijeong Technology Officer S&T team in graduated from the University Jeremy February 2001 having Taiwan of Essex in 1996 with a BA in graduated with previously worked in the Her Majesty’s Government does Language Studies. She has a masters in BTCO visa-handling unit and in not recognise Taiwan as a previously worked for the molecular the private sector for 2 years. sovereign state and consequently Korean Broadcasting System biology from Ginell is responsible for does not have diplomatic relations and a leading law firm in Seoul. New York assisting the S&T officer in with it. However, there is a non- University. On his return to organising promotional events Mikyung Park – Deputy governmental trade and cultural Taiwan he spent eighteen (seminars, exhibition and visits) Science & Innovation Officer office, with Science & Technology months working as a research and uses her in-depth Mikyung joined officers working there. associate at Academia Sinica – knowledge of various IT the team in the most prominent academic related industries and September Taipei institute in Taiwan. Jeremy joined experience in bringing together 2003. She is Chong-Loon Tai – Senior the S&T team in Taipei in Aug high tech companies and responsible for Science & Technology Officer 2001.As a deputy officer he researchers from UK and commercial Chong-Loon supports the Senior S&T officer Taiwan. work in ICT, electronics and graduated with in policy reporting and sectors software and arranging both a MSc in briefing as well as seeking commercial visits and scientific engineering opportunities for technology missions. Mikyung has a Master’s from the collaboration between UK degree in Environmental University of centres of excellence and Architecture & Landscaping California at Berkeley.After Taiwanese industry and from the Grate School of Seoul returning to Taiwan, he spent researchers. National University, Seoul, and a most of his career in sales and BSc in Housing Environment marketing of IT and from Yonsei University, Seoul. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:43 AM Page 95
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Czech Republic Denmark France Parliamentary Office of Science 95 Prague Copenhagen Paris and Technology, where she Otakar Fojt – Science & Mogens Olsen – Science & Hugh Elliott – Counsellor acted as Physical Sciences and Technology Officer Technology Officer (Global Issues) Information and Otakar took Mogens Hugh began Communications Technology up the newly graduated with work as advisor. Prior to joining the created post a MSc in Counsellor for DTI Helen spent several years of S&T Officer electronic Global Issues in physical chemistry research. in Prague in engineering in Paris in October 2003. from the September He studied Biomedical Technical University of 2002. He previously headed up Stephen Flanagan – Science engineering and obtained a Denmark. He has 17 years the Political, Economic and Press & Technology Officer PhD for his research in chaos business experience from Section of the British Embassy Stephen theory. He previously worked Philips Denmark, Philips in Buenos Aires. His background obtained a as a specialist on international Australia, RE Technology and prior to that job has been as an PhD in projects at Brno University of Peek Traffic. He has had various EU specialist, with a degree in molecular Technology and as Managing positions as engineer, systems French and Spanish and jobs in virology in Director of a small manager, development manager, the FCO covering a broad range 1992. He has technological company, marketing director and of EU issues. worked as a technical advisor Sincotron. His experience managing director. From 1995- to an American Biotech gained while working as a 97 he worked as investment company, and for a number of postdoctoral Research Fellow manager with Danish Helen Dickinson – First well-known pharmaceuticals at the University of York and at Development Finance Secretary (Science & companies. He has a PGCE the Fields Institute in Toronto Corporation, responsible for Technology) (High School Science Teacher) on industrial projects for investments in IT, software and Helen joined diploma in the UK and he Nortel Networks provided electronics. From 1997-2003 the Paris team maintains an active interest in valuable knowledge for his Mogens took on an assignment in March 2003 presenting science to young current position. as Technology Attaché at the from the DTI. people. Stephen joined the Royal Danish Consulate At the DTI Embassy in June 2003 as a General in Los Angeles. Mogens she worked in locally-engaged member of joined the British Embassy in space policy and export staff. Copenhagen in May 2003. controls before spending time on secondment to the S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:43 AM Page 96
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96 Dara Brice – Senior Science colleagues.Alison studied Heike Hammelehle – Science Muzinée Kistenfeger – Science & Innovation Officer (from May German and French, joining & Innovation Assistant & Technology Officer 2005) HM Diplomatic Service direct Heike joined Muzinée, a from university. She has also the Berlin S&I graduate of had postings to Brussels, team in August the Ludwig Caracas and St Petersburg, and 2004 on a Maximilian Kathy Carvalho – Science & has experience of a wide range part-time University in Technology Assistant of diplomatic work. basis. Before Munich, has a Kathy that she worked as an assistant decade-long background in originally came for international companies in foreign languages journalism. to Paris in July Ursula Roos – Science & Germany, Switzerland and She joined the German S&T 1990 on a Technology Officer Colombia. team in April 2001. Muzinée is secondment Ursula has an the team’s expert on Southern German science & research, posting with MSc in concentrating on the high-tech the Ministry of Defence Translating / Munich Länder of Bavaria and Baden- (MOD). In May 1996, after 4 Interpreting Steve Plater – Counsellor and a PGDip Württemberg. years in Paris, she left the (Science & Technology) in Economics. Steve has been MOD and returned to the Italy She joined the German S&T in Munich Embassy as a locally-engaged team in September 1996. One since Rome member of staff. of her key priorities is December Ashley Prime – First Secretary biotechnology. She also covers 2003. His FCO (Social/Science & Technology) bioethics, federal research experience Ashley joined policies, budget issues, and includes promotion of exports Germany the British technology assessments. Ursula (in Japan) and inward Berlin Embassy in has been involved several investment. He added to his Rome in Alison Pring – First Secretary missions since 1998 looking MA in languages a BSc from the March 2003 (Science & Technology) into biotechnology, Open University (2001).As Alison arrived microsystems engineering, Consul-General in Munich he is with in Berlin in nanotechnology, and oncology. charge of trade and investment responsibility for S&T, Social August 2004. promotion, consular and other and Labour Affairs, and She was work in Bavaria.As Counsellor Commercial and Trade previously he has oversight of the relations. Most recently, he Deputy Germany S&T team. worked on the USA desk in Director,Trade & Investment in the FCO. Before that he served Berne, where she worked closely with her S&T in China in Beijing and S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:43 AM Page 97
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Guangzhou as well as working Milan developments and eventually to forming part of the UK’s 97 in London identifying and Alessandra Ferraris – Science run a regional initiative helping contribution to the Global attracting Chinese inward & Technology Officer the Polish regions prepare for Partnership Against the Spread investment to the UK. He has Alessandra Structural Funds absorption of Weapons and Materials of also served in Italy at the took up her and facilitating contacts with Mass Destruction. His Consulate in Milan and as the post as S&T their UK counterparts. Since background is in managing Press Officer at the Embassy Officer at the December 2004, she has deals programmes of cooperation in Rome. British with science and technology. with Russia, Kazakhstan and Consulate She has graduated from English other countries in the fields of General in March 2002. She Language Department at nuclear safety and security. Laura Nuccilli – Science & holds a Degree in Chemistry Poznan University and also Technology Officer and Pharmaceutical Technology studied Political Sciences. Laura has a from the University of Pavia. Previously worked for Alcatel Mikhail Lachinov – Science & Degree in She has 6 years of research in Belgium and for BOC Ltd. in Technology Officer Political experience. Prior to joining the Poland. Mikhail joined Science from Consulate she worked for a the British the University major Italian pharmaceutical Embassy in of “La company managing R&D September Russian Federation Sapienza” in Rome and an MA projects in the area of 2004 after Moscow in Mass Communication from respiratory disease therapy. moving back David Vincent – First Leicester University as a to Russia from Canada where Secretary (Science & Chevening Scholar. Before Poland he worked as a research Technology) joining the Embassy, she Warsaw engineer for high-tech fibre David joined worked in the Italian Izabela Van den Bossche – optic instruments company JDS the British Parliament as a Parliamentary Science & Technology Officer Uniphase in Ottawa. Mikhail Embassy in Assistant with the Green Izabela joined holds graduate degrees from April 2005 Group dealing with issues such the Embassy in Moscow Engineering Physics from the DTI. as sustainable development, May 1998 as a Institute and University of Prior to biotechnology and GMOs. Press Officer. British Columbia,Vancouver. Moscow, David was the In January Director of the UK-Russia 2000 she Closed Nuclear Cities moved to the Chancery team Partnership, a nuclear non- to report on internal political proliferation programme S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:43 AM Page 98
Science & Innovation Network Profiles
98 Liya Korobova – Science & Applied and Environmental Switzerland Michael Tomsett – Science & Environment Officer Biology and a Masters in Berne Technology Adviser Liya joined the Communicating Science. Bernhard Sander – Science & Michael has a British Technology Officer degree in Embassy in Bernhard international 1994. Prior to Sofia Norberg – Science & joined the business and this she was a Technology Officer Embassy in languages from DFID Sofia joined the Berne from the the University Environment Officer. Her Science & private sector of Strathclyde in Glasgow and responsibilities include Innovation in 2001. His previously worked with an environment and life sciences. team at the background is in applied physics, international marketing and She is a graduate of Moscow British Embassy applied chemistry and management consultancy based State Linguistic University. in Stockholm engineering with first degrees in Scotland. He first came to in September 2004. Previous from London’s Imperial College Switzerland in 2001 for an Sweden work experience has been of Science and Technology exchange year at the University Stockholm managing projects for the followed up by a PhD from the of Berne and has been in the Alice Hague – Second Stockholm universities and local University of the Witwatersrand. Embassy S&T team since Secretary (Science & organisations focusing on S&T In Switzerland and abroad, November 2003 Technology) issues including knowledge Bernhard has worked for Alice joined transfer and public engineering, tunnelling and the British understanding of science. In management consultants. Embassy in 2004 Sofia worked in the Stockholm in secretariat for the first April 2003 EuroScience Open Forum filling the (ESOF2004) held in Stockholm brand new position of S&T and with the Swedish “Science Officer there. Previously she and Society” association. Sofia worked as an Education Officer has a BA in Political Science in a Science Centre in Dundee from Södertorn University and in the Royal Society, College, and a MSc in Science Edinburgh.Alice has a degree in and Technology studies from the University of Amsterdam. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:43 AM Page 99
Science & Innovation Network Profiles
The Netherlands Cheryl Kirk – Science & Israel South Africa 99 The Hague Innovation Assistant Tel Aviv Pretoria/ Leo Zonneveld – Science & Cheryl joined Adee Matan – Science & Johannesburg Innovation Officer the Embassy in Technology Officer Thandiwe Moutlana – Science Leo was June 2000, but Adee received & Technology Officer appointed S&T only became her PhD from Thandiwe has Officer in The part of the the recently been Hague in Science & department of appointed the 2001. Most of Innovation Unit in 2005. Her Brain and first Science & his 30 years’ work portfolio at the Embassy Cognitive Technology working life at the Embassy has has included working as PA to Sciences at MIT. She also has a Officer (STO) been in high technology the Economic and Trade & BSc in Computer Science and in South Africa. Before joining partnering, serving the UK and Investment Counsellor and studied Linguistics for her MA. the FCO, she held the position Dutch commercial and Systems Administration. Cheryl She has worked in product of chemical engineer and research world and covering has worked at many overseas management and R&D for technical project leader in disciplines such as post- missions for the FCO, including companies in the fields of Process Biotechnology at CSIR genomics, nanotechnology and Yaoundé, Havana, Lisbon, machine translation, workforce Bio/Chemtek.Thandiwe studied ICT. Leo is Honorary Professor Nairobi and San Francisco. management and e-commerce. in the USA at the at the Faculty of Psychology Adee took up the S&T post in Massachusetts Institute of and Social Sciences at the Tel Aviv in January 2002. Technology (MIT) and University of Flores in Buenos graduated with a BSc in Aires and was granted a Chemical Engineering. She Maltese Order in 1991. gained research experience in Educated at Leiden, the (bio)chemical engineering Netherlands, with qualifications through MIT and University of in philosophy, he has done and Cape Town (UCT), where she continues to do academic work conducted research in aspects in a private capacity with the of nanotechnology, bioleaching, UN, UNESCO, Georgetown fermentation and University,Warsaw University biotechnology. and the Max Planck Institute. S&Tech text 22/07/2005 4:48 PM Page 100
ANNEX 3 Science & Innovation Network Contact Details
100 Sao Paulo Boston Canberra Alexandra Ozorio de Almeida Mark Sinclair Fiona Ratcliff Science & Technology Officer Consul (Science & Technology) Science & Innovation Officer British Consulate General British Consulate-General British High Commission Centro Brasileiro Britanico One Memorial Drive, Suite 1500 Commonwealth Avenue Rua Ferreira de Araujo, 2nd Floor Cambridge MA 02142 Yarralumla Pinheiros (00) (1) (617) 245 4500 Canberra,ACT 2600 05428-002-Sao Paulo-SP (00) (61) (2) 6270 6666 (00) (55) (11) 3094 2700 Houston May Akrawi Beijing Ottawa Vice-Consul (Science & Technology) Robin Porter Julia Hinde British Consulate General Counsellor (Science & Innovation) First Secretary (Science & Technology) 1000 Louisiana, Suite 1900 British Embassy British High Commission Houston,TX 77002 11 Guanghualu 80 Elgin Street (00) (1) (713) 659 6270 Jianwai Ottawa ONTARIO K1P 5K7 Beijing, 100600 (00) (1) (613) 237 1530 Los Angeles (00) (86) (10) 5192 4000 Malcolm McLean Washington DC Vice-Consul (Science & Technology) Shanghai Phil Budden British Consulate General Nick Khosla First Secretary (Science & Technology) 11766 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 1200, Consul (Science & Technology) British Embassy Los Angeles, California 90025-6538 British Consulate General 3100 Massachusetts Avenue (00) (1) (310) 481 0031 Suite 301, Shanghai Centre NW Washington DC 20008 1376 Nanjing Xi Lu (00) (1) (202) 588 6500 San Francisco Shanghai 200040 Sharima Rasanayagam (00) (86) (21) 6279 7650 Atlanta Consul (Science & Technology) David Muller British Consulate-General Guangzhou Vice Consul (Science & Technology) 1 Sansome Street, Suite 850 Nigel Birch British Consulate General San Francisco, CA 94104 Consul (Science & Innovation) Suite 3400, Georgia Pacific Centre (00) (1) (415) 617 1300 British Consulate General 133 Peachtree Street NE Guandong International Hotel Atlanta GA 30303 339 Huanshi Dong Lu (00) (1) (404) 954 7700 Guangzhou 510098 (00) (86) (20) 8314 3000 S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:43 AM Page 101
New Delhi Taipei Munich 101 Sarah Bamber Chong-Loon Tai Steve Plater Consul General and First Secretary (Science & Innovation) (Science & Technology Officer) Counsellor (Science & Technology) British High Commission British Trade and Cultural Office British Consulate-General Shantipath, Chanakyapuri 9-10 Floor Fu Key Building Burkleinstrasse 10 New Delhi 110 021 99 Jen Ai Road, Section 2 D – 80538 Munchen (00) (91) (11) 2687 2161 Taipei 100 (00) (49) (89) 211090 (00) (886) (2) 2192 7000 Tokyo Berlin Philippa Rogers Prague Alison Pring Counsellor (Science & Innovation) Otakar Fojt First Secretary (Science & Technology) British Embassy Science & Technology Officer British Embassy No 1 Ichiban-cho British Embassy – Commercial Section Wilhelmstr. 70 Chiyoda-ku Palac Myslbek D-10117 Berlin Tokyo 102-8381 Na Prikope 21 Germany (00) (81) (3) 3230 4800 117 19 Prague 1 (00) (49) (30) 20457 0 (00) (420) 2 2224 0021 Singapore Rome Brian Ferrar Copenhagen Ashley Prime First Secretary (Science & Technology) Mogens Olsen First Secretary British High Commission Science & Technology Officer (Social/Science & Technology) Tanglin Road British Embassy British Embassy Singapore 247919 Kastelsvej 36/38/40 Via XX Settembre 80a, (00) (65) 6424 4200 DK – 2100 Copenhagen Ø 00187 Rome (00) (45) 35 44 52 00 (00) (39) 06 4220 0001 Seoul Jim Thomson Paris Milan First Secretary Dr. Helen Dickinson Alessandra Ferraris (Science,Technology & Environment) First Secretary (Science & Technology) Science & Technology Officer British Embassy British Embassy British Consulate General Taepyeongno 40 35 rue du Faubourg St Honoré, Via San Paolo 7 4 Jeong-dong 75383 Paris Cedex 08 20121 Milano Jung-gu (00) (331) 44 51 31 00 (00) (39) 02 723001 Seoul 100-102 (00) (82) (2) 738 2797 S&Tech text 22/07/2005 10:43 AM Page 102
102 The Hague Berne Leo Zonneveld Bernhard Sander Science & Innovation Officer Science & Technology Officer British Embassy British Embassy Lange Voorhout 10, 2514 ED, Thunstrasse 50, The Hague 3005 Berne (00) (31) (70) 427 0427 Switzerland (00) (41) (31) 359 7700 Warsaw Izabela Van Den Bossche Tel Aviv Science & Technology Officer Adee Matan British Embassy Science & Technology Officer Aleje Roz No 1 British Embassy 00-556 Warsaw 192 Hayarkon Street (00) (48) (22) 311 0000 Tel Aviv, 63405 (00) (972) (3) 7251222 Moscow David Vincent Pretoria First Secretary (Science, Environment Thandiwe Moutlana and Nuclear Safety) Science & Technology Officer British Embassy British High Commission Smolenskaya Naberezhnaya 10 255 Hill Street Moscow 121099 Arcadia 0002 (00) (7) (095) 956 7200 Pretoria (00) (27) (12) 421 7500 Stockholm Alice Hague Second Secretary (Science & Technology) British Embassy Skarpogatan 6-8 Box 27819 115 93 Stockholm (00) (46) (8) 671 3000 s&I - covers 22/07/2005 4:46 PM Page d s&I - covers 22/07/2005 4:46 PM Page 2
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