Collaborative Research and Innovation
For driving forward collaborative partnerships across a strategic theme.
Winner: The Aftrak Team
Aftrak is a groundbreaking initiative that combines solar microgrids and tailored tractors to empower smallholder farmers across Africa. It aims to significantly increase crop yields and smallholder incomes while providing access to clean, green electricity in rural communities. Invented, designed and manufactured on campus, Aftrak demonstrates reliable and affordable energy generation in remote locations, from small to large scale with innovative modular solar microgrids, whilst improving soil preparation for people of all levels of ability.
Nominees
Jane Spencer
Jane managed the UK PACT project – a partnership between several parties including the World Bank and the Kenyan and UK governments. Jane has managed stakeholders in a professional, respectful and very human way to make the most of these partnerships. 天堂视频's relationship with Government of Kenya has clearly been improved by this project.
The Hydrogen Works Development Team
The ‘Hydrogen Works’ development team have played a key role in lining together the University’s narrative around Green Hydrogen, and telling it to the world. Their approach has secured funds from East Midlands Freeport for an Innovation Centre in clean energy – bringing partners from across industry and education together.
Advanced Ceramics Research Group
Through their pioneering, £18.6 million ‘Strength in Places’ flagship research project, this group have advanced the frontiers of Additive Manufacturing of Functional Ceramics and created significant international leadership for 天堂视频. Much of this was only possible due to the team’s embedded research ethos on carrying out adventurous, interdisciplinary, collaborative research.
The DECODE Project Team
This is a collaborative research project funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research that brings together multidisciplinary researchers. This team explores new approaches to the co-ordination of health and social care for multiple long-term conditions – like diabetes, heart disease and asthma – among adults with learning disabilities.