The KE Hub has secured £2.1 million in funding from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) to deliver Phase II of its programme from April 2025 to March 2029. The Hub aims to strengthen collaboration between academia, industry, and government. It currently works with over 120 Business, Industry and Government (BIG) partners, and engages mathematical sciences departments from more than 50 UK universities.
Professor Zhou will lead the Training portfolio, a central component of the KE Hub’s mission to support the mathematical sciences community. The programme focuses on skills development, knowledge exchange, and enabling researchers and BIG partners to work together effectively to deliver real-world impact. She joins the Hub’s leadership team alongside academics from the University of Oxford, University of St Andrews, University of Southampton, and the University of Bristol.
Professor Chris Breward, Scientific Director of the KE Hub, said:
“We are delighted to welcome Diwei into this role. She brings great energy, extensive experience in knowledge exchange, and a strong commitment to supporting the mathematical sciences community. I am sure she will make an excellent contribution to the continued growth of our training programme.”
Professor Zhou has been actively involved in the KE Hub, previously serving as a Super Champion from October 2023 to July 2025, supporting Phase I of the programme. Her appointment marks an important step as the Hub continues to expand its training and collaboration activities across the UK.
On her appointment, Professor Zhou said: “I am delighted to take on this role and look forward to supporting impactful collaboration through training and knowledge exchange in the mathematical sciences.”
More information about Professor Zhou’s appointment can be found on the KE Hub website.