University of Exeter appoints three key industry partners honorary associate professors.
The news came this past March, that three of our key industry partners would be appointed Honorary Associate Professors at the University of Exeter, a crowning moment in our long-standing collaboration with these organisation, as well as recognition of the nature and value of the engineering development work carried out together.
Professor Steve Austen, Engineering Director and Chief Engineer at the internationally renowned SC Group, has joined the University’s Engineering department. This honorary appointment recognises the strong and fruitful relationship there is between SC Group and the University of Exeter.
Speaking about his appointment, Prof Austen said: “Over the years, I’ve been involved in a number of PhDs and KTPs, alongside chairing university/industry collaborations that have helped to solve some seemingly intractable problems. These collaborations have always been immensely rewarding and thought provoking, and this appointment should hopefully mean I can help with more of these.”
A few days later, another appointment followed. Jim Sibson, Head of Research and Partnerships at Babcock International, also joined the Engineering department. This is a recognition of how committed both the University and Babcock are to keep working together on emerging Digital Engineering technology.
Professor Sibson commented: “Universities such as Exeter allow us to stay ahead of the curve in the application of digitally enabled asset management.”
To further strengthen this relationship Babcock recently seconded James McNaughton, Business Development Manager at CFCM, to work as part of Babcock’s Group Technology Team.
Finally, Jake Rigby, Research and Development Lead at BMT, was also appointed Honorary Associate Professor in the Department of Engineering.
The University of Exeter already enjoys a fruitful partnership with BMT, which supports future research and technology development initiatives and sharing expertise. Next up are a series of projects, which Professor Rigby will be co-running with Professor Chris Smith, to explore how alternative cleaner power systems might work for a range of marine vessels.
Speaking of his appointment, Professor Rigby said: “We continue to collaborate on a range of cutting-edge technologies, from visualisation and simulation to the future of power systems in the maritime industry; sharing a passion for solving the problems of today whilst shaping the ideas of tomorrow.”
The Centre of Clean Mobility is delighted to see some of our closest business partners join the University in these honorary positions and look forward to seeing our common vision become realty.