Published on 25/10/2019
bioscience and neuroscience at aston

 

  • From advanced biology to crop improvements and the science of sheep health - new government award for doctoral training partnership

A consortium of Midlands research-active universities has just been awarded over £20 million to build on the Midlands’ already significant bio-economy and success in life sciences and agricultural research.

The Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Partnership 2020 (MIBTP2020), of which Aston University is a partner, is led by the University of Warwick and brings together a number of other Institutions including University of Birmingham, the University of Leicester and Harper Adams University. 

The funding comes from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council arm of the Government’s UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) funding organisation. This award will be matched by the universities in the partnership to fund a total of 295 doctoral students (59 per year) over the next 5 years.

Roslyn Bill, Associate Dean Research and Professor of Biotechnology said: "Aston is delighted to join MIBTP2020 as a new partner. Our strengths in neuroscience, healthy ageing and membrane biology are exemplified by Aston Neuroscience InstituteAston Research Centre for Healthy Ageing and Aston Centre for Membrane Proteins and Lipids.

“These are just a few examples of our excellent, collaborative and impactful research. Our track record in supporting students from diverse backgrounds and our partnership with industrial beneficiaries is something we look forward to bringing to MIBTP2020."

Professor Alec Cameron, Vice-Chancellor, Aston University and Chair of the Board of Midlands Innovation said: “It is fantastic to see the announcement of this new collaborative Doctoral Training Partnership which includes four members of the Midlands Innovation university consortium.The DTP builds upon a strong heritage of life sciences research and collaboration across the Midlands and further strengthens the ties between our institutions.”

The Director of MIBTP2020, Dr Vardis Ntoukakis, Associate Professor in the School of Life Sciences at the University of Warwick said: “We are delighted to announce this new partnership to catalyse bioscience across the Midlands. It brings together research talent and resources to train up even more research talent for the burgeoning bio-economy and the world-leading life sciences industries and laboratories in our region.”

Announcing all the awards to the Doctoral Training Partnerships, Professor Melanie Welham, UKRI-BBSRC’s Executive Chair said: “The success of the UK’s science sector and the consequent benefits to society and the economy relies on great researchers doing great work. Our Doctoral Training Partnerships have already supported the training of hundreds of early career scientists working at the cutting edge of biology and biotechnology. By continuing to fund, through this significant £170 million investment, vital training of the next generation of researchers we will help ensure that the UK consolidates its position as world-leader in this crucial sector.”

UKRI have announced that each of the successful DTPs will also receive Flexible Support Funding, to provide additional opportunities for students within and across cohorts.The funding will be used to encourage under-represented groups of undergraduates to experience research through summer placements, as well as provide additional funds to support high-cost research projects.

 

ENDS

Notes to Editors

Notes to Editors

About Aston University

Founded in 1895 and a University since 1966, Aston is a long established university led by its three main beneficiaries – students, business and the professions, and our region and society. Aston University is located in Birmingham and at the heart of a vibrant city and the campus houses all the university’s academic, social and accommodation facilities for our students. Professor Alec Cameron is the Vice Chancellor & Chief Executive.

For media inquiries in relation to this release, call Rebecca Hume, Press & PR Officer,
on 0121 204 5159 or email r.hume@aston.ac.uk

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