Knowledge Transfer Partnerships are more than collaboration; they’re about connecting universities with businesses to turn research into real-world solutions. KTPs bring fresh thinking and academic expertise into industry, driving innovation, growth, and meaningful change beyond campus walls.
The event was packed with inspiring talks, including reflections from Professor Karen Coopman, Richard Lamb and James Silverward from Innovate UK, and updates on funding and support opportunities from Kamran Hussein and Asha Sudra.
A panel discussion, chaired by Professor Coopman, brought together:
- Dr Andrew Dixon – Managing Director, SVGC Ltd
- Dr George Vogiatzis – Reader in Computer Science
- Sadiq Abdullahi – KTP Associate, FibreTech Ltd
- Richard Lamb – KTP Programme Manager, Innovate UK
- Kathryn Burchell – Head of Partnerships and Knowledge Exchange, Loughborough University
One of the highlights was the KTP Associate poster showcase. Congratulations to Liang Fan, who won the Best Poster Award, and Sadiq Abdullahi, who was named the runner-up. The awards were presented by Richard Lamb, and special thanks go to our judging panel, which comprised of Professor Anish Roy, Richard Lamb, Dr Chris Kay and Dr Jo Barwick.
Attendees also heard the inspiring story of Dr Mohamad Saada’s journey from KTP Associate to academic, serving as a powerful reminder of how KTPs can shape careers as well as transform organisations.
The event closed with a tour of DigiLabs, our state-of-the-art digital innovation space, showcasing how technologies such as virtual reality, artificial intelligence and data-driven solutions are shaping the future of work.
Kathryn Burchell, Head of Partnerships & Knowledge Exchange, commented: “KTPs are a brilliant example of how Loughborough brings research to life in ways that make a real difference to businesses and communities. Last week’s event reminded us of the transformative power of collaboration and partnerships, and I’m excited to see even more of our academics and partners take up the opportunities that KTPs offer.”
Professor Karen Coopman, Associate Pro-Vice Chancellor Research and Innovation (Excellence & Focus) added: “Celebrating 50 years of KTPs at Loughborough was a proud moment for us as a University. These partnerships demonstrate the very best of what we do, working with industry to deliver innovation, impact, and opportunity. I look forward to seeing KTPs play an even greater role in our research and knowledge exchange strategy in the years ahead.”