Experts from the University of Aberdeen will be highlighting their renewable energy expertise at this year’s annual renewable energy exhibition and conference, All-Energy ‘08, which begins tomorrow (Wednesday, May 21) at the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre.
The University of Aberdeen join The Robert Gordon University on the Aberdeen Renewable Energy Group (AREG) pavilion at the event, which is the largest all-renewable energy exhibition ever held in the UK.
The University will use the occasion to highlight ways in which industry and academia can work together to develop energy research. Current energy research activities which are ongoing at the institute will also be showcased, alongside details of Energy related teaching programmes available to prospective students.
Professor Paul Mitchell, Director of Energy Technologies said of the event: ""The University of Aberdeen has a huge level of expertise in the area of renewable energy both from within the institution and across the region, and we are committed in our support of the renewable energy business. Participating in major events such as All-Energy is very important to us in providing an opportunity for our academics to meet companies and key players and exchange ideas in this rapidly changing industry.
"The All-Energy conference and exhibition is growing in size and reputation year on year and is an excellent occasion for the University to let the renewable energy industry know about the strength and breadth of our research and development capability. The event also allows us to highlight how our research findings feed into our consultancy, Continuing Professional Development Services (CPD) and post graduate teaching activities."
The University of Aberdeen conducts research relevant to the energy industries with current energy research dominated by the needs of the oil industry. At least 100 staff from 15 Departments are involved in energy-related research. Close interaction with the international oil and gas industry is ongoing, including sponsored research and studentships, consultancy, and student sponsorship, much of which is facilitated through the University's Institute for Energy Technologies.
Developing degree programmes which provide graduates with the key skills and knowledge to enter the rapidly developing energy sector is a key objective for the University. The range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses which the institute offers will also be highlighted at the All-Energy event.
Professor Mitchell continues: "The energy sector is an area of vital importance to the future of the UK and global economy. The future of our energy supplies has become an increasingly high-profile topic in recent years and we are at a time of unprecedented interest in this particular area of academia.
"Within the University's College of Physical Sciences there is a clear vision to provide academically challenging programmes of study for undergraduate and postgraduate students, and to lead the field in cutting edge research activities. A number of taught Masters programmes in Future Energy Technologies have been introduced to our range of degree programmes, which have significantly expanded and complemented our existing portfolio.
"These are truly challenging times, and one of the reasons why the University has decided to introduce new programmes is to give graduates wishing to contribute to the future of the energy sector, an excellent head start. The MSc programmes connect students with experts in the technical, social and management issues that determine the provision of society's future energy needs, providing graduates with the key skills they require to meet the needs of the industry."
The University of Aberdeen will be on the Aberdeen Renewable Energy Group (AREG) pavilion, stand number AB7.