Last night, more than 200 researchers and collaborators gathered for an event celebrating knowledge exchange and impact activities from the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.
The event, which took place in Summerhall, showcased a range of projects demonstrating the value of partnerships with external organisations.
The University of Edinburgh’s Principal, Professor Peter Mathieson, highlighted his appreciation for the huge effort that goes into this work during his speech.
External organisations from charities, businesses and third sector organisations attended as the event underlined the importance of researchers working with them to achieve real impact.
Project Mercury
A project that saw students and staff work with a national bank to develop an app that encouraged the public to do good deeds was among the partnerships showcased on the night.
Project Mercury brought together University expertise in design informatics with developers in Tesco Bank to explore what the company’s products and services might be in the near future.
This culminated in three prototype experiences that showcased in the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2018 and encouraged the public to think how digital technologies could enhance our lives.
Research showcase
Elsewhere, Professor Sharon Abrahams’ research into motor neuron disease (MND), which led to NICE and the MND Association changing their guidelines, also featured in the event, demonstrating the impact generated by University academics.
An international arts project from Dr Shari Sabeti and Dr Michelle Keown highlighted a range of collaborations between artists, researchers and Marshallese school children.
PhD student Mary Mitchell – the winner of the Scottish Graduate School of Social Science’s Impact Award – displayed her work that has had an important impact on the child welfare service.
As well as 15 academics taking part in the evening and explaining their projects to guests, more than 100 projects featured in displays throughout the venue.
Thank you to our researchers and partners
“Working with partners in all fields is crucial for the University to achieve its ambition to make the world a better place. We believe that by exploring, challenging and learning together we can make a real impact on the world, and train our graduates to make a critical difference.”
University of Edinburgh Principal, Professor Peter Mathieson
Knowledge Exchange and Impact support for researchers
The Research Support Office offers expert knowledge and targeted support to the University of Edinburgh’s research community, particularly in the pursuit of research funding and developing world-class research projects.
Our Knowledge Exchange & Impact Team provide specialist advice on building partnerships and identifying pathways to impact. Find out about the support we offer.
