Kuwait Science Inward Visit Programme to the United Kingdom
In collaboration with Kuwait Science Inward Visit Programme to the United Kingdom
In collaboration with
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Table of Contents Foreword ...... 4 Acknowledgements ...... 6 Contributors ...... 7 Introduction ...... 8 UK Science and innovation Network (SIN) ...... 9 The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, England ...... 10 Visit Summary (2nd of December 2019) ...... 10 University Profile ...... 11 Agenda ...... 13 The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom ...... 14 Visit Summary (5th of December 2019) ...... 14 University Profile ...... 15 Agenda ...... 17 Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom ...... 18 Visit Summary (4th of December 2019) ...... 18 University Profile ...... 20 Agenda ...... 22 Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, Scotland ...... 24 Visit Summary 6th of December 2019 ...... 24 University Profile ...... 25 Agenda ...... 27 Royal Agricultural University, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, UK ...... 30 Visit Summary ...... 30 University Profile ...... 32 Agenda ...... 35 University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom ...... 36 Visit Summary ...... 36 University Profile ...... 40 Agenda ...... 42 Swansea University, Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom ...... 43 Visit Summary ...... 43 University Profile ...... 44 Agenda ...... 46 Cardiff University, Wales ...... 47 Visit Summary ...... 47 University Profile ...... 47 Agenda ...... 49 Concluding Remarks ...... 50 Inward Visit Reports ...... 51 Food security, food security policy, economic growth, food safety, nutrition ...... 51 Monitoring the prevalence crustacean bacterial and viral diseases in the local fish market of Kuwait .. 53 Electrocatalytic CO2 reduction to formate on 2D nanohybrid catalysts ...... 59 Integrated, Sustainable Biomass and Wastewater Treatment System for Biofuel and Coproducts Production System from Local Microalgae ...... 61 Sustainable Crop Production in Sandy Soils through Climate-smart, Precision Irrigation and Nutrient Management Techniques ...... 64 To study the effect of Green supply chain practices in manufacturing industries in Kuwait ...... 67 Development and Application of Virtual reality-based inspection of bridge in Kuwait...... 69 Supply chain risk assessment of energy infrastructure In Kuwait ...... 71 Coastal Management/Engineering; Numerical Modelling ...... 74 Graphene-based membranes ...... 76 Smart Cities ...... 78 Environmental monitoring ...... 78 Population Health...... 78 Environmental monitoring and research ...... 80 Clean Energy ...... 82 CO2 Capture, Utilization, and Storing (CCUS) ...... 84 KFAS Mission Report ...... 86 Foreword
I am delighted to see the publication of this mission report by the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR). It is a wonderfully detailed account of the first UK-Kuwait Scientific Research Inward Visit programme and a true celebration both of the enduring friendship between Britain and Kuwait and of the valuable scientific collaboration between our two countries. I am especially grateful to Dr Samira Omar, Director-General of KISR, for commissioning this visit report, and to colleagues from KISR, the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement for Sciences, the Environment Public Authority, Kuwait University and the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition for their expert contributions. I should also like to thank the UK’s Gulf Science and Innovation Network for supporting this programme and the British Council for their logistical support.
In 2014 our two Governments signed a Memorandum of Understanding to support cooperation in the field of Higher Education and Scientific Collaboration. When this ground-breaking Memorandum was renewed last year, I was delighted that KISR and the British Council decided in parallel to sign a co-operation agreement in London to provide an implementation framework. This led to a series of collaborative workshops, events, and inward visits. Fittingly, this coincided with celebrations to mark the 120th Anniversary of the Treaty of Friendship between the UK and Kuwait. The co-operation agreement provided for a joint UK-Kuwait Inward Visit Programme – the first time our two countries have collaborated on joint scientific visits of this kind. This programme consisted of two visits to the UK, focusing on Clean Energies, Climate Change and Food Security and involved 19 Kuwait researchers from 5 institutions visiting 8 leading UK institutions in Northern and South West England, Scotland, and Wales. The Visit Programme provided an ideal opportunity to build links between leading UK and Kuwait Research Institutions which I hope will lead to many more years of deepening co-operation and collaboration in scientific research.
In 2020 we will work to enhance the strong relationship built between Britain and Kuwait to support initiatives in Innovation and Technology (or Innotech) – in which progressing scientific collaboration will be a key element. This will be facilitated through the bilateral framework - the Joint Steering Group (JSG) - which was created to help manage our ever deepening and broadening relations. The JSG met for the fifteenth time in Kuwait in January 2020, covering defence, security, healthcare, education and science, and trade. Within that framework we have established a UK- Kuwait Science and Innovation Technical Dialogue, which will meet on a quarterly basis. I have no doubt that this co-operation will go from strength to strength, enriching and expanding our bilateral dialogue in areas such as clean energy or food security which will be vital to our joint future for the next 120 years or more. Acknowledgements
The Kuwait Institute of Scientific Research would like to thank the British Government’s Gulf Science and Innovation Programme, British Embassy in Kuwait, and the British Council in Kuwait for their support, cooperation, and facilitation of this trip. Our relationship over the past years has strengthened continuously showing positive and fruitful collaboration in the field of science and innovation. Additionally, I would like to thank the KISR researchers, KFAS, KU, KEPA and all involved parties for their support and contribution in making these inward visits a major success.
These continuing and forthcoming efforts have showcased encouragement towards the exploration of new scientific opportunities to promote research activities and new innovations jointly with KISR and numerous UK leading universities. This aims to further strengthen the United Kingdom and Kuwait’s partnership, ultimately contributing to both our nations prestige as well as achieving Kuwait’s Strategic Goals and 2035 vision. KISR is enthusiastic and looks forward to a future of scientific success further strengthening our continued joint partnership with the United Kingdom. Contributors We would like to acknowledge the efforts of Eng. Waleed Roy’s contribution from the Science & Technology Partnerships & Agreements Office at the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) for his efforts towards the production of this book. We would like to also thank all the participants of the inward visit programs listed below for their contribution towards this book:
Kuwait Foundation for Advancement of Science (KFAS) KISR Dina Al-Nakib Dr. Latifa Al-Haji Husain AlHelal Dr. Maryam Adnan Dr. Khalil Mataqi Kuwait University (KU) Dr. Narges Abel Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Ameeri Dr. Reem Alawadhi Dr. Yousef Al-Qaheem Eng. Waleed Al-Nassar UK Gulf Science & Innovation Programme Dr. Sheikha Al-Sanad Shorouq Al Enezi Nick Boucher Dr. Bassam N. Shuhaibar Dr. Sherain Al-Subia British Embassy Ms. Majda Khalil Dr Shaikha Al-Sanad Barry Bobin-Martin Eng. Waleed Roy Marwa Abul
Kuwait Environment Public Authority (KEPA) British Council
Zakarya Alkhabbaz Heba Elzein Rasha Osman Shayma Saad
Organizations and University
University of Sheffield University of Manchester Newcastle University Heriot-Watt University Royal Agricultural University University of Exeter Swansea University Cardiff University
Introduction Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) and the British Government’s Gulf Science and Innovation Programme, supported by the British Embassy in Kuwait and British Council, initiated these inward visits as part of strengthening bilateral relations between Kuwait and the United Kingdom by providing insight and exposure to areas of research for potential joint ventures. The inward visits facilitated various meetings with professors, scientists, researchers, and experts from reputed scientific and technological research organizations in the United Kingdom in line with KISR researchers and scientists from Kuwait. The trip offered ideal opportunities for strengthening international relations through the pursuit of joint scientific research and projects in order to achieve cutting edge scientific collaboration towards the strategic goals of both our nations. UK Science and Innovation Network (SIN) While the UK is a global leader in science and innovation, international collaboration remains essential to our continued development, the competitive advantage of innovative businesses and filling key gaps in capability. Research and knowledge is increasingly developed and transferred through international collaboration which provides opportunities to work with the best in the world, exchange students and researchers, and gain access to large scale international facilities. The UK Science and Innovation Network work with governments, commercial and research communities in support of UK science policy overseas, leading to mutual benefits. The portfolio for the Science and Innovation Network is as diverse as the ecosystems in which we operate. The network is encompassed by five essential cross cutting strands (excellence, resilience, prosperity, influence, and development) which underpin our approach and everything we do. Within this broad portfolio there are a number of key UK thematic priorities, but we also ensure that areas in which we engage internationally are priorities for our partner countries. So while the UK industrial strategy and the four priorities areas identified within it (AI & Data, Clean Growth, Future of Mobility, and Aging Society) are key for the UK, there are a number of other sectors which the Science and Innovation Network recognize as international priorities in the markets in which we operate. In Kuwait our role includes working continuously to strengthening our bilateral relationship so that through science & innovation, and engaging with the next generation of thinkers, we can jointly address local and global challenges which include (but are not limited to): x Emerging health issues x Water & food security x Clean energy x Treatment of waste x Cyber security x Advanced materials x Smart cities
We also work in partnership with colleagues from across UK government to support trade & investment, prosperity and continue to broaden security cooperation between the UK and Kuwait. The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, England
Visit Summary (2nd of December 2019)
KISR delegates visited the University of Sheffield, who were received cordially by representatives and researchers from the Energy Institute. We were welcomed by Prof Pourkashanian and other researchers. The main interest of Sheffield University was on carbon dioxide capture by the advanced technologies such as solvents and solids. The visit was hosted by the Management School and Pilot-scale Advanced CO2 Capture Technology (PACT) Core Facilities. The team attended and gave presentations showcasing the organization profile and latest research being pursued, informing the team about research opportunities for potential collaboration pursual, and highlighting the following goals:
x To expand UK’s Scientific collaboration with Kuwait in reinforcing research efforts in Clean Energies x To raise the profile of UK expertise in Scientific Research x To support UK-Kuwait Scientific collaboration x To facilitate increase in UK-Kuwait Scientific Collaborative partnerships x To contribute to the wider debate on #Clean Energy and to support Kuwait’s efforts to tackle this issue.
This was held at the Ella Armitage Building with presentations focusing on key topics clean energy research and technologies. Discussion of potential collaboration opportunities and ways to move forward were discussed after the presentation by attendees. University Profile
Located in the city of Sheffield, South Yorkshire, the University of Sheffield is a public research university, a member of the Russell Group of research-led universities, and one of the UK’s original redbrick universities. Since 1905, the University of Sheffield has established itself as one of the largest and best universities in the UK, consistently positioned in the top 100 in the World University Rankings. We have a reputation for teaching and research excellence across our six faculties: arts and humanities, engineering, medicine, dentistry and health, science, social sciences, and international faculty, city college, Thessaloniki, Greece. Today the university teaches 25,000 students, including around 3,900 international students from 120 countries, and employs approximately 6,000 staff. Our research influences national, regional, and international policy and changes lives. We are in the top ten per cent of UK universities for the strength and impact of our research (latest Research Excellence Framework in 2014). Our reputation for excellence attracts some of the best minds in the world. These exceptional people are drawn to Sheffield by the opportunity to work at the frontiers of knowledge on research which makes a difference. To make this happen, we have created four bold new research institutes within the University, each focused on an era-defining challenge: The Energy Institute, the Neuroscience Institute, the Healthy Lifespan Institute, and the Institute for Sustainable Food. The creation of focused research institutes enables us to bring our key strengths together in exciting new ways. Through our flagship research institutes, we are tackling some of the most important social, economic and health challenges facing the world today. Bringing our expertise together from different disciplines into our flagship institutes allows us to create innovative solutions which improve lives.
Agenda The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
Visit Summary (5th of December 2019)
KISR delegates visited the University of Manchester and were received cordially by representatives and researchers from the Faculty of Science and Engineering. We were welcomed by Professor Kevin Taylor, Head of Research for the School of Natural Sciences, and other researchers representing a diverse range of departments from across the Faculty. The main interest of the University of Manchester was on the development of Advanced Materials, particularly Graphene, and Catalysis (Plastic Waste into Fuel). The visiting delegation also received presentations from researchers affiliated to the Sustainable Energy Systems cluster, Energy Geoscience, and Manchester Environmental Research Institute.
The visit also provided the opportunity to tour research facilities including the National Graphene Institute and the pilot plant facility attached to the Department of Chemical Engineering and Analytical Sciences. The KISR and Manchester representatives delivered a series of reciprocal presentations, showcasing the respective organizations and latest research being pursued, whilst exploring opportunities for potential research collaboration. There were positive follow-up discussions with identified scope for cooperation across a number of areas including carbon capture and storage, sustainable energy systems, atmospheric sciences, and graphene/2D materials. University Profile
The University of Manchester is based in the north of England and is among the largest universities in the UK, with around 40,000 students (almost 11,500 international) currently enrolled alongside 12,000 staff. The University is famous for its academic and research excellence and is also a member of the Russell Group of leading UK Universities.
In the latest QS World Rankings, the University of Manchester is placed at 27th globally, whilst ranking 6th in the UK and 8th in Europe. As well as global academic rankings, Manchester has also been named the top institution in the UK (2nd in Europe and 8th globally) in the Times Higher Education (THE) University Impact Rankings. The University is configured across three faculties (Biology, Medicine & Health; Humanities; and Science & Engineering) complemented by a number of interdisciplinary institutes which enable the University to address grand challenges and drive research forward. Whilst the University undertakes research addressing a wide range of challenges it has identified the following research beacons for particular focus: Advanced Materials, Cancer, Energy, Global Inequalities, and Industrial Biotechnology.
The University of Manchester’s research heritage is reflected in its 25 Nobel prizes (ten for physics, nine for chemistry, three for physiology/medicine and three for Economics), the most recent being awarded for the University’s pioneering work in the isolation of graphene. . The University has seen significant investment in world class infrastructure such as the National Graphene Institute, Henry Royce Institute of Advanced Materials, and Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, all of which facilitate the University’s drive for world-leading research and innovation.
Agenda Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
Visit Summary (4th of December 2019)
KISR delegates visited Newcastle University, who were received cordially by representatives and researchers from the School of Engineering and the National Centre for Energy Systems Integration (CESI). We were welcomed by Professor Richard Davies ([email protected]), Pro Vice-Chancellor Global, who also has a background as a petroleum geologist and is founder and first Director of the Durham Energy Institute, followed by an exchange of ideas with Prof Phil Taylor, former Head of Engineering and Co-Director of the National Centre for Energy Systems (CESI). The visit aimed to explore scope for collaboration in the area of Clean Energies, as wide-ranging as solar and wind energy to biotechnology, waste material conversion and smart building and construction. The team attended and gave presentations showcasing the organization profile and latest research being pursued, informing the team about research opportunities for potential collaboration.
Newcastle academics Prof Lidija Siller, Dr Jonathan Lee, Dr Greg Mutch, Dr Tosin Obata and Dr Mark Ireland were giving presentations on their work concerning CO2 mineralisation, Carbon Capture RPBs and Bio Composites. Development of Clean Energy Generation and Catalytic Processes, Electrochemical and Bio-electrochemical systems for Energy and Environmental applications, Energy Geosciences, Wastewater and Plastic Waste treatment. Dr Anh Phan joined the group during lunch and discussed collaborating plans with Dr Sultan Al-Saleem. Dr Evangelos Papaioannou provided a tour in the labs. (Presentations available via Gwynned.de- [email protected]). Prof Phil Taylor suggested a number of colleagues that were not able to attend the meeting but might be of interest in regard to the scope of the visit, namely: Dr Sara Walker, current point of contact for further information on Energy and leading the Energy NUCoRE, is Reader in Energy, working on energy efficiency and renewable energy at the building scale. Prof Ian Metcalfe, Professor of Chemical Engineering, interested in problems in the area of catalysis and high temperature membranes. Dr Shannon Flynn, Lecturer in Inorganic Geochemistry, whose research revolves around the fate and behaviour of metals and contaminations in the environment. Prof Adam Harvey, Professor of Process Intensification and Director of the Biopharmaceutical and Bioprocessing Technology Centre. Dr Eileen Yu, Senior Lecturer, aims to research and develop a biofuel cell system, which provides power for implantable electrically operated devices, and obtain further understanding on enzymatic electrochemical reactions for glucose oxidation and oxygen reduction. Prof Ian Head, Dean of Research and Innovation in the School of Environmental and Natural Sciences, whose research seeks to unravel the microbial controls on biogeochemical process in natural and engineered environments. Prof David Manning, Professor of Soil Science and Ecosystems Services, who is interested in how soils and plants interact in response to climate change, and how we can exploit soil processes to minimise the effects of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions University Profile
Newcastle University is a world-class university dating back to 1834, with an international reputation for academic excellence. It is a member of the prestigious UK Russell Group of research-intensive universities and inspires the minds of 28,699 students including 5,400 students from 145 countries around the globe. With a staff complement of more than 6,200, Newcastle’s reputation has resulted in attracting some of the leading academics and researchers from around the globe, opening access to a wealth of global experiences and expertise for our students.
Ranked amongst the top 150 universities in the world (QS 2020), and 28th in the UK (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2020), our passionate academics and dedicated researchers are exploring solutions to some of the world’s greatest challenges, pioneering new ways of thinking and collaborating with institutions that share our vision for excellence, creativity, and impact. Our students are highly sought-after, with 95% of graduates going on to employment or future study. We are one of the top 20 universities targeted by graduate employers in the UK. Many of our 214,000 alumni are at the forefront of thinking in sectors as diverse as digital technology, finance, and fine art.
From developing new cancer treatments to technology that powers billions of dollars on the New York Stock Exchange, we are dedicated to looking at old problems in new ways.
We Are Leading: Newcastle University is a global leader in Data, Energy, Cities, Ageing & Health, and the Creative Arts. Newcastle is the National Innovation Centre for a range of different research areas (Subsea & Offshore Engineering, Energy Systems, Data Science, Sustainable Cities, Health and Ageing, Rural Enterprise). Our Urban Observatory is the largest set of open environmental monitoring data in the world. Newcastle University Centre for Research Excellence (NUCoREs) bring together interdisciplinary research, teaching and engagement focusing on Global Challenges and UN Sustainable Development Goals. We Are Award-Winning: Placed 16th in the UK for research power, according to the Research Excellence Framework (2014), 78% of our research is assessed to be world leading. We are ranked in the top three for Impact and Enterprise in areas as diverse as computing science, environmental science, and English and we hold a QS Silver Award for Sustainability. Our teaching holds the highest possible award – The Gold Award – in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) and we are amongst the 10 best European Universities for Teaching Excellence. Our staff include three T.S. Eliot Prize winners, the Scottish national poet Jackie Kay, and Turner Prize nominees. We Are Global: We are a truly international institution, educating students around the globe with a campus in Newcastle, Business School in London, and a Science and Engineering Facility in Singapore. We were also the first UK University to establish a fully owned international campus for medicine at its NUMed campus in Malaysia. With a strong focus on Internationalization, Newcastle has built partnerships with over 150 institutions worldwide, including key partners with institutions, organisations and companies in North America, Europe, East Asia, South Asia, South East Asia, and Oceania. We Are a Community: Whether it is by educating tomorrow’s leaders or finding solutions to humankind’s greatest challenges, Newcastle University exists to benefit society. At the heart of our bustling, cosmopolitan city, our community of ambitious academics, researchers, staff, and students are influencing global change together – From Newcastle. For the World. Additional Contacts
Dr Gwynned de Looijer – Research Strategy & Development - EU & International Research Funding Development Team Alex Morgan – International Relations and Partnerships – International Office Stephen North – International Recruitment – International Office Agenda
Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, Scotland
Visit Summary 6th of December 2019
The visit was coordinated by Professor Mercedes Maroto-Valer from Heriot-Watt University. Professor Maroto-Valer is the UK’s Industrial Decarbonization Research and Innovation Champion and Director of the Research Centre for Carbon Solutions. Time was spent exploring their laboratory facilities. Their research interest was related to steam injection for oil wells, material characterization by advanced techniques, and biomass. The university has an innovation centre for carbon dioxide capture, transport, storage, and utilization. For carbon dioxide separation, the research focuses on conventional methods such as solvents and adsorbents.
Heriot-Watt University is interested in collaboration on a broad range of research related to the net zero agenda. Out Prospectus for Recovery and Growths sets out our commitments to a sustainable green economic recovery https://www.hw.ac.uk/documents/recovery-prospectus.pdf University Profile
Heriot-Watt University’s mission is influenced by its heritage as the world’s first Mechanics Institute, established in 1821 to provide inclusive access to the knowledge and skills necessary for emerging industries in a growing economy. Since then, the University has transitioned into a significant international organization that is well placed to help drive productivity through educating the future international workforce; nurturing specialist talent; advancing R&D in emerging areas of technology; building global collaborative partnerships; commercializing technology and developing new trade and investment opportunities. Our approach is inclusive, encompassing a vibrant research environment with an entrepreneurial spirit, allowing us to offer a unique ecosystem where people can develop their careers, advance the most promising ideas, and deliver outstanding impact for society.
x The UK Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014 ranked Heriot-Watt 22nd in the UK, with 82% of our research as world-leading or internationally excellent x Heriot-Watt University is 9th in the UK and 1st in Scotland for research impact x Over 80% of our academic staff are currently engaged in research at internationally recognised levels x Heriot-Watt University ranked 302nd in the world in the 2019 QS World University Ranking x At least 90% of students were satisfied overall with their course in 10 of our 22 subject areas in the National Student Survey 2019. x Heriot-Watt University is 37th in the world, 13th in the UK and 3rd in Scotland for international outlook based on THE World University Rankings 2019. x 8th in Scotland in the Guardian University Guide 2020 x 95% of graduates are in employment or further study within six months of graduation x More than a third of Heriot-Watt’s 7,000 Edinburgh campus students are from outside the UK and this international focus is also demonstrated by the 10,000 students from 150 different countries worldwide studying on its international programmes. Agenda
Royal Agricultural University, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, UK
Visit Summary
Kuwaiti delegates have visited the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) which has been at the forefront of agricultural education and a key contributor to the land-based sector for 175 years. The RAU has more than 1,100 students studying agriculture, animal science, business, environment, equine science, farm management, food, real estate, and rural land management. The University, which is based in Cirencester, Gloucestershire, prides itself on its links with industry and all courses are designed to meet the demands of the employment market for land-based and agri-food chain expertise, both in the UK and worldwide.
During this visit, RAU scientists have presented their research work on the developments in food security and nutrition. In addition, the potential collaboration between UK-Kuwait scientists have been discussed. The series of presentations were started by Prof. Louise Manning by giving an overview of research expertise at RAU. Prof. Manning has highlighted the research topics that government and industry in the UK are focusing on to derive improvements in productivity and resource efficiency. These topics include:
1- Improving environmental performance, including soil and health; 2- Livestock health and animal welfare; 3- Safety and trust in the supply chain.
She has explained that RAU is running three research systems to cover these topics including:
1- Sustainable Soil Systems; 2- Healthy Animal Systems; 3- Smart Food Systems.
There are more than 30 scientists at the RAU who have contributed effectively in terms of their scientific publications, developing new products, policy-making, and meeting wider stakeholders needs, and through the work of Farm491, Agri-Tech innovations and incubation programmes.
Then in the next presentation Prof Manning has focused on research and knowledge exchange in food safety and nutrition. She has shown the key research project that she has participated in which includes:
x Improving food security and nutrition; x Exotic disease compensation; x Enabling consumers to increase their consumption of fruit and vegetables, and establishing transparency in the food supply chain using Blockchain technology; x Motivators and economic incentive drivers in the meat industry; x Investigation of the overall effectiveness of food sampling and surveillance in the UK by local and port health authorities; x Development of risk-based sampling guidance for enforcement officers; and x Risk and impact of internet selling of food.
The last four all being research report for the UK Food Standards Agency.
She has also shown the impact of the National Farmers Union’s “Fit for the Future” campaign to help consumers eat more fruits and vegetables and also other programmes like “Food Sold Online” to give guidance for local authorities on food sold on the internet. The impact of the traditional public media (newspaper, TV, etc.) and social media in the knowledge exchange among farmers are also key aspects of her work. University Profile
The Royal Agricultural University (RAU) has been at the forefront of agricultural education and a key contributor to the land-based sector for 175 years. Today, the RAU has more than 1,100 students studying agriculture, animal science, business, environment, equine science, farm management, food, real estate, and rural land management. The University, which is based in Cirencester, Gloucestershire, prides itself on its links with industry and all courses are designed to meet the demands of the employment market for land-based expertise, both in the UK and worldwide. Farm491 is a leading UK based AgriTech incubator and innovation space based at the Royal Agricultural University, supporting entrepreneurs as they advance their business with potential for impact in the agricultural sector.
Farm491 support AgriTech and agri-food entrepreneurs in converting their idea or technology into a viable and successful business. This is achieved through Farm491 membership, which provides access to a network of mentors, investors, service providers and farmers, as well as active in-house support to help businesses find the root cause of any hurdles, and establish a plan of action in order to increase the probability of success.
They offer: x 1-1 support to help develop key focus areas such as strategic advice, hiring and investor readiness x Access to strong network – mentors, investors, and farmers x Invitations to exclusive events, such as investor days and farmer focus groups x Potential to collaborate with RAU students and academics x Hot-desking, practical workshops, and offices x Promotion and exposure within the industry Farm491 locations x The Alliston Centre - Farm491 HQ, includes office space and hot-desking facilities x Trent Lodge - office space x Harnhill Workshops - hot-desking and workshop space x Free to attend workshops
Farm491 are able to offer free workshops, part-funded by GFirst LEP and the European Regional Development Fund. The two-day workshops are designed to provide the bespoke support, tools, and knowledge that innovators need to turn their AgriTech concept into a transformative product or service. Over the two-day workshops we focus on the why and vision of your business, and in doing so help you to communicate your concept, product or service to the right market with a clear idea of how you will disrupt or assist the agricultural industry.
Farm491 offers this for innovators, start-ups and existing AgriTech enterprises both locally and nationally. During the two days, delegates will also develop their elevator pitch and by the end of the workshop have an investor ready elevator pitch. Agenda University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
Visit Summary
The University of Exeter visit was hosted by the Collaborative Center for Sustainable Aquaculture Futures (SAF) a joint venture between the University of Exeter and the Center for Environment Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas). The visit has exposed the Kuwaiti delegates to leading UK research expertise in aquatic food security and in particular aquaculture disease control and water quality through two sessions.
Session 1 focused on water quality and aquaculture research topics. The first presentation was been given by Dr. Rob Ellis (University of Exeter) which covered an overview on the SAF facilities and research activities on sustainable aquaculture. SAF research on water quality of production environments is of key relevance to industry and commercial aquaculture production. Research focuses on the current management of water chemistry (with a particular focus on carbonate chemistry and calcification related variables) in hatcheries, grow-out pond systems and large-scale RAS, and on the optimization of water chemistry based on the physiology of production species to maximize productivity and sustainability.
Where environmental management is not possible (i.e. open system mariculture), research focuses on optimization of aquatic species to suit the current, and projected future, production environments. SAF aims to establish strong national and international partnerships and collaborations to accelerate the uptake research findings into improved production management processes, as well as through the production of optimal strains, across a broad range of aquaculture settings. Dr Ellis listed further ongoing research programs that SAF is working on with the corresponding scientific leads, which include:
¾ Aquatic Disease: Dr. David Bass and Dr. Mark van der Giezen ¾ Genomes and Host –Pathogen Interactions – Dr. Ronny van Aerle and Dr. Eduarda Santos ¾ Aquatic Disease Modelling and Epidemiology – Dr. Nick Taylor and Prof. Tamara Galloway ¾ Environment and Animal Health – Dr. Ioanna Katsiadaki and Prof. Rod Wilson ¾ AMR – Dr. David Verner Jeffreys and Prof. Will Gaze ¾ Aquatic Food Safety – Dr. Craig Baker-Austin and Dr. Steve Michell
The second presentation was on the assessment and mitigation the risks of harmful algal blooms (HABs) and water quality. Dr. Ross Brown (University of Exeter) presented the key HAB genera/species in the UK with its targeted species. He highlighted the importance of understanding the physical, chemical, and biological factors that influence HAB risks in order to facilitate sustainable operation & future expansion of coastal and offshore aquaculture. Dr. Brown listed the area of research that he is focusing on, which include:
¾ HAB monitoring to Elucidate temporal and spatial patterns for proper aquaculture planning ¾ Statistical (correlative) site-specific models ¾ Mechanistic models
The third presentation was given by Dr. Adam Porter (University of Exeter) focusing on the impact of microplastics and interaction dynamics in the environment. Dr. Porter’s research focuses on developing new techniques to study the dynamics of microplastics through marine ecosystem, their uptake into marine organisms and how plastics and the environment interplay, highlighting the complexity of the marine plastic pollution problem.
The last presentation for session 1 was focused on the dynamics of pathogenic marine bacteria, in particular microbes such as vibrios that represent an emerging disease threat in Europe, driven by climate change. Dr. Craig Baker-Austin (Cefas) explained the utility of the remote sensing to detect infrared radiation emitted from the Earth's surface for prediction of Vibrio outbreak. Utilizing this retrospective data may prove invaluable in predicting future outbreaks. Besides remote sensing, Dr. Baker-Austin described the use of the molecular tools, such as whole genome sequencing that could allow identifying the sources of outbreaks, evolutionary relationships between strains and potentially areas where new cases may emerge.
The second session was focused on diseases and aquaculture and was composed of 4 talks. Dr. Kelly Bateman (Cefas) presented her research on emerging disease in shrimp aquaculture which is one of the most important topics for Kuwait. Dr. Bateman listed major shrimp disease listed by OIE which are as follows,
¾ White Spot Disease (WSSV)-viral disease ¾ Taura Syndrome (TSV)- viral disease ¾ Yellow Head disease (YHV, genotype 1)- viral disease ¾ Infectious hypodermal and haemopoietic necrosis virus (IHHNV)- viral disease ¾ Infectious Myonecrosis Virus (IMNV)- viral disease ¾ White Tail Disease (Macrobrachium rosenbergii nodavirus)- viral disease ¾ Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease (AHPND)- bacterial disease ¾ Necrotising hepatopancreatitis (Hepatobacter penaei)-bacterial disease ¾ Crayfish plague (Aphanomyces astaci)- parasite disease
She explained that among these diseases, EU-listed only three potential diseases out of them (WSSV, TSV and YHV) only for quarantine because these cause massive losses in global culture (> US$ 10bn for WSD since late 1990’s), high mortality rate, distributed in most global production areas, no vaccines, chemotherapy or immune-stimulants are available; and Significant threat to non-target hosts. For that, she emphasized the importance of the rapid detection and response to an emerging (or re-emerging) disease which can be easily conducted through OIE Collaborating Centre for Emerging Aquatic Animal Diseases, Cefas is one of them. For Kuwait, it is crucial first to set up disease detection procedure based on OIE standards to protect the aquaculture sector from disease outbreaks. The second step is to list the potential disease in the GCC region for quarantine.
Another two presentations by Dr. Diana Minardi (Cefas) and Shayma Alathari (University of Exeter) were given on the value of next generation sequencing and cutting-edge technologies including Nanopore MinION and Illumina Miseq tools for detection and description of the disease- associated microbiome in fish and shrimp aquaculture systems. University Profile
The University of Exeter combines world class research with excellent student satisfaction at its campuses in Exeter and Cornwall. It is a member of the Russell Group of leading research-intensive universities. Formed in 1955, the University has 25,263 students from more than 130 different countries. Its success is built on a strong partnership with its students and a clear focus on high performance.
Research at the University of Exeter focuses on some of the most fundamental issues facing humankind today. Recent breakthroughs to come out of Exeter's research include the identification and treatment of new forms of diabetes and the creation of the world's most transparent, lightweight, and flexible conductor of electricity. Development of the new £52.5 million Living Systems Institute research centre is now complete. It will focus on disease prevention through predictive biology and will eventually house 200 scientists. It follows a major refurbishment project, which saw the creation of world-class research and teaching facilities for Biosciences. More than half of the research at the University of Exeter is conducted in partnership with industry, Government agencies and cultural and social organizations, which ensures that research outcomes are economically and socially relevant.
Exeter was named The Times and The Sunday Times Sports University of the Year 2015-16 acknowledging the University as the best in the country in academic and athletic achievement across a wide range of sports. The University was also voted the Sunday Times University of the Year 2012/13. It is ranked amongst the UK’s top universities in the Higher Education league tables produced by the Times and the Sunday Times. It is also ranked amongst the world’s top 200 universities in the QS and Times Higher Education rankings.
Exeter has always been among the leaders for student satisfaction in the National Student Survey. The senior management team has sought to build on this strength by putting student service at the centre of its strategy. The Students' Guild is involved at the earliest stages of strategic planning and given a major role in making spending decisions through a specially created Budget Scrutiny Group. This has led to a remarkable degree of joint thinking and teamwork.
The most visible expression of this partnership is the Forum, a £50m student services building which provides a centerpiece for the Streatham Campus and which opens onto an attractive piazza. It houses a purpose-built student services centre, 400-seat lecture theatre, a shop, bank, and café. Other new facilities on the Streatham Campus include the INTO building which provides flexible teaching spaces, a lecture theatre, and a learning resource centre for international students to improve their English.
The Penryn Campus has benefited from the Environment and Sustainability Institute; a £30 million interdisciplinary centre that leads cutting-edge research into the consequences of environmental change and the mitigation and management of its effects, while the Exchange building provides a lecture theatre, library facilities and spaces for small group discussions and exhibitions.
Exeter’s success has been built upon strong foundations of leadership, governance and management, a relentless focus on performance and a sector leading partnership with its students. Agenda Swansea University, Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom
Visit Summary
Mr. Paul Howes (Aquatic Resources Manager, CSAR) has given a brief introduction and overview on the ongoing projects at the Center for Sustainable Aquatic Research (CSAR) at Swansea University. Dr. Sara Barrento (Science Communication and Stakeholder Manager; CSAR) in the next presentation has explained in detail about “The Biophilic Living: The Picton Yard” project. The project simply is a mixed-use development, providing affordable new homes and workspace alongside a community urban farm in the heart of Swansea City Centre. The project is expected to commence on site in April 2020 and complete in early 2022.
In the third presentation, Prof. David Gethin (Engineering, Swansea University) has explained about the application of the printing and coating technologies in sensing the aquatic environment for better management. This type of technology will be highly benefited aquaculture sector as it could provide them with real-time water quality reading for better practice.
Then, Ms. Fleuriane Fernandes has presented the research of ALG-AD group. ALG-AD is three- year Interreg NWE funded project, which is being led by Swansea University. The project aims to use waste for sustainable growth by developing new technology to take excess waste nutrients produced from anaerobic digestion of food and farm waste to cultivate algal biomass for animal feed and other products of value. ALG-AD brings together a group of scientists and engineers from 11 different partners in four countries across North West Europe. These academics are working together with industry to develop a circular economy solution to create wealth from waste. She has explained that ALG-AD is building three pilot facilities at three distinct real-life conditions locations in North West Europe: Devon, Ghent, and Brittany. Each facility will use local conditions to grow the algae and record results. Information from the three pilots will generate a Decision Support Tools. These tools together with demonstrations to stakeholders will promote adoption of the new technology.
Finally, Kuwait delegates has visited CSAR facilities which was Equipped with modern, fully programmable recirculating aquaculture systems that can Carrey out applied research on a diverse range of aquatic organisms, from temperate to tropical and marine to freshwater environments. Also, we have visited algal research group facilities which covers small scale laboratory algal cultivation and, biochemical and metabolome analysis, through to larger scale pilot cultivation using photobioreactors and up and downstream processing in their greenhouse facility. University Profile
Swansea University is a research-led university that has been making a difference since 1920. Our diverse and welcoming community thrives on exploration and discovery, with a balance of excellent teaching and research, alongside a superb quality of life.
Our commitment to research with real-world benefits has seen us achieve our ambition to be a Top 30 Research University, soaring up the 2014 Research Excellence Framework league table to 26th in the UK from 52nd in 2008.
Swansea University has been named University of the Year in the Whatuni Student Choice Awards for the second time in five years. As well as being crowned University of the Year, Swansea University took the top spot in the International category and placed top three in the Postgraduate, and Course and Lecturers categories. Now in its sixth year, the Whatuni Student Choice Awards are voted for entirely by students, with more than 41,000 reviews and comments submitted from more than 160 UK institutions.
In the prestigious Times and Sunday Times, Good University Guide 2019, we have risen six places into the UK Top 30. We are runner-up for the overall UK University of the Year and have won the Welsh University of the Year title for the second time in three years, cementing our position as Wales’ leading higher education institution. Swansea University is top in Wales in The Guardian University Guide 2020. The proportion of students satisfied with their course has increased significantly, with Swansea now ranked 4th in the UK. Swansea is also ranked joint 5th alongside Cambridge University for the proportion of students achieving graduate-level employment or further study six months after graduating.
We place our students at the heart of everything. As a result, we achieved a gold rating, the highest rating possible, in the national Teaching Excellence and Student Outcomes Framework (TEF) and are ranked UK Top 10 for student satisfaction in the National Student Survey for 2019.
Our stunning waterfront campuses make us a desirable location for students and staff from around the world, and our multicultural community provides a global perspective, enabling those who join us to develop skills and knowledge that set them on successful and enriching careers. Agenda Cardiff University, Wales
Visit Summary
KISR delegates visited Cardiff University who were received cordially by representatives and researchers from the different Research Institutes. The team attended presentations showcasing the organization profile and latest research being pursued, informing the team about research opportunities for potential collaboration pursual. This was done at the Water Research Institute with presentations focusing on key topic of sustainable water management and how they are tackling the challenge with an integrated, interdisciplinary research response.
University Profile
Situated in Cardiff, UK, Cardiff University is a global, ambitious, and innovative university with a bold and strategic vision located in a beautiful and thriving capital city. With over 7,000 international students from more than 100 countries, their campus offers a diverse and truly international environment attracting the best students and staff from around the world. They develop and support a culture which encourages international exchanges and collaborations, with over 17% of our undergraduate students spending time abroad. Cardiff Universities strategic partners and links with over 200 institutions worldwide highlight their global reputation and international outlook. These partnerships span more than 35 countries including 40 across China, nine in Malaysia and over 20 in the US.
The Water Research Institute was launched in 2015 to address the grand challenge of sustainable water management for people and ecosystems in a changing world. Their mission is to foster world-leading interdisciplinary research that will have strong impact and be used as evidence by decision makers. They do this by providing a creative environment where researchers from different disciplines co-design and co-deliver research with stakeholders and end-users to provide integrated understanding and solutions to tackle global water challenges.
Their research involves the grand challenge of sustainable water management that requires an integrated, interdisciplinary research response. This challenge cannot be solved by natural scientists, engineers or social scientists working in isolation. They build on existing research excellence from across Cardiff University to address complex water issues and research questions in a truly interdisciplinary manner. These questions include: