Learning Circle 25-26 Term 1
Sustainability Spotlight
Learning Circle 25-26
Term 1
About the Event
The Sustainability Spotlight Learning Circle is back for the new academic year! This termly gathering is designed to support our research community in developing interdisciplinary research projects. It is open to all staff and PGRs involved in research, at any career stage.
We are pleased to welcome Professor James CovingtonLink opens in a new window as our first speaker of the academic year. His talk will set the stage for an afternoon of connection and collaboration. Following the session, there will be opportunities for lunch, networking, and dedicated discussions around potential project ideas, with the aim of forming interdisciplinary research teams.
If you have a project idea or proposal, please add details to the PadletLink opens in a new window in advance to help guide meaningful conversations and foster collaboration during the session.
Speaker
Professor James Covington
As Associate Head of School for the School of Engineering, I will draw on over twenty years of engagement with industry, with company's such Douwe Egberts, IBM, Markes and Spencer's, Roche, Dense, Hyundai and DSM (to name a few), to describe how academics can collaborate effectively with external partners. The talk will cover the main modes of interaction (collaborative and contract research, consultancy and student projects and placements) and offer practical guidance on choosing the right route. I’ll share what works, what to watch for, and how to balance impact, funding, and IP with academic priorities such as openness and publication timelines. The aim is a candid, active discussion that helps colleagues to build productive industry collaborations.
Event Details
Date: Tuesday, 25 November 2025
Time: 12:30 - 15:00
Location: Ideation Room, The Junction
Agenda
12.30 Welcome
12.35 Guest Speaker: Prof James Covington
13.30 Lunch and networking
14.00 Potential project ideas discussions
14.50 Summary and close
Notes: Please select "25 NOV Sustainability Spotlight Learning Circle" on the registration form.