University of Greenwich research students present new ideas to universities minister
Three postgraduate students from the University of Greenwich presented their research work to David Willetts MP, the new Minister for Universities and Science at a reception at the House of Commons.
The students were Samantha Booth, David Simmons and Aoife Hunt.
Samantha, from the School of Science at the university’s Medway campus, talked about her research in developing new materials for restoring damaged teeth and bones, for which she has recently been awarded a PhD.
David, a part-time research student in the School of Health & Social Care at the Avery Hill campus, introduced his research on studying the experiences of parenting in local families, with particular reference to young parents from ethnic minorities.
Aoife, studying in the School of Computing & Mathematical Sciences at the Greenwich campus, discussed her work on the safe and rapid evacuation of people during major fires in buildings, ships and aircraft.
The event, which was organised by the universities organisation Million+, set out a ‘University Challenge’ that the new government faces during the coming year.
The challenge details the need for the government and MPs from all parties to recognise the huge potential of universities to contribute to economic growth and innovation, as the UK looks to rebuild its economy. The important role for MPs in supporting the vital work of universities in these areas during such difficult financial times is also a key challenge.
Professor Tom Barnes, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research & Enterprise at the University of Greenwich, says: “We are very proud of Samantha, David and Aoife who are excellent ambassadors for the university. They highlighted to the minister and other MPs the benefits and impact of their research to society at large and, by doing so, left them in no doubt about the contribution that research at the University of Greenwich is making in addressing, local, regional, national and international needs.”
Other keynote speakers at the event included Pat McFadden MP, Shadow Business Secretary and Susan Nash from the National Union of Students.
Million+ use research and policy to solve complex problems in higher education. It publishes research reports and policy papers and submits evidence to parliamentarians, government and other agencies.
To find out more about the courses available at the University of Greenwich call 0800 005 006 or email: courseinfo@greenwich.ac.uk
Ends
For further information, please contact:
Lee Armitt, Press Officer
University of Greenwich
020 8331 9420
Notes to editors
Picture caption: Samantha Booth, David Simmons, David Willetts MP, Minister for Universities and Science and Aoife Hunt.
Million+ aim to develop and shape public policy and funding regimes on a non-party basis so that they enable people from every walk of life to benefit from access to universities that excel in teaching, research and knowledge transfer and business, the NHS, the not for profit-sectors and government to benefit from the full potential of all universities. Visit: http://www.millionplus.ac.uk/