Leeds University celebrates 100 Knowledge Transfer Partnerships with business

The Government initiative encourages businesses to recruit recent graduates or postgraduates for specific projects so they can benefit from specialist skills and expertise.

The aim is to support UK businesses wanting to improve their competitiveness and performance.

Leeds University has been involved with the KTP programme since the late 1970s and has around 20 KTP projects running at any one time, making it one of the most prolific university participants in the scheme in the UK.

Current project partners range from large international businesses such as Asda to companies such as Leeds-based IT healthcare software company, The Phoenix Partnership.

The university’s 100th successful KTP has involved Dyson Technologies teaming up with the Centre for Technical Textiles in the School of Design.

The project has involved developing novel filter fabrics for Dyson’s innovative vacuum systems, ensuring the company sustains its competitive edge in future technology.

Mark Taylor, global strategy and research director at Dyson, said: “New technology starts with research - and some of the world’s best research is found in British universities.

“Combining the expertise of Dyson engineers with the knowledge base at Leeds will lead to new technologies that we can export from the UK.”

Professor David Hogg, pro-vice-chancellor for research and innovation at Leeds University, said: “Reaching the milestone of 100 KTP projects is testament to the research strengths at Leeds.

“Companies recognise the relevance of the expertise at Leeds and the competitive edge it can give their business.

“By having a dedicated KTP office at Leeds, we provide our staff and our commercial partners with the best fit for our academic expertise and the development of the partner’s business.”

KTP projects vary in length from six months to three years.