Skip to content

How NSIRC Unlocks Innovation as Your Partner in Research

Wed, 06 November, 2024

Work with NSIRC to Develop New Technologies Without the Traditional Risks of R&D

Cambridge, UK - Does your organisation have ideas for new technology but is struggling to secure the investment needed due to perceived risks? You're not alone. Many businesses have ambitious visions but face hurdles when it comes to embracing the uncertainty involved with research. What you need is a strategic partner who can help you navigate these challenges while providing essential funding and expert guidance.

At NSIRC, we are a leading postgraduate engineering research organisation based in Cambridge, UK, committed to transforming the landscape of academic research and innovation. Through our Industrial PhD programme, we cultivate the next generation of engineers and researchers, empowering them to drive science and innovation globally.

NSIRC connects the dots between cutting-edge research and industry needs. By streamlining the journey from scientific discovery to market-ready solutions, we not only, develop effective standards and regulations, but we have also positioned ourselves as the go-to research provider in structural integrity and related fields.

Our collaborations include funding and grants from organisations, including the Lloyd's Register Foundation and the UK Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy. Working alongside our prestigious academic partner, Brunel University of London, and over 45 affiliated universities in the UK and worldwide, we have created an ecosystem rich in academic knowledge and industry expertise.

Success Story: How Teletest went from Novel Idea to Market Readiness with NSIRC

One of the standout benefits of our partnerships is the collaboration between TWI Ltd and Brunel University of London, enabled by NSIRC. This alliance has significantly enhanced industry practices, particularly in asset reliability and safety, while also promoting sustainability through reduced carbon footprints. Moreover, we are training a new generation of researchers who can innovate and optimise technology solutions.

A prime example was the advancement of Asset Lifecycle Management through data analytics. By incorporating NSIRC PhD researchers into TWI, we developed software features that empowered operators to adopt a risk-based integrity management approach in critical systems, such as pipelines and steam systems. This integration delivered substantial cost savings and boosted efficiency.

Innovations like the Teletest—a cutting-edge system using long-range guided wave ultrasonic testing for detecting pipeline corrosion—demonstrated the groundbreaking work being accomplished through TWI-Brunel collaboration. Additionally, our PhD research has improved methods for assessing the remaining life of vital components, helping operators prevent costly downtimes and revenue losses.

For instance, an earlier project focused on underground storage tanks in Malaysia, successfully reduced shutdowns and enhanced safety measures, showcasing the tangible benefits of our research initiatives.

“The collaboration with Brunel University has been invaluable. Our PhD students have significantly enhanced our capabilities, driving research that directly feeds into innovative processes and systems with industrial relevance.”

Dr. Ujjwal Bharadwaj, Team Manager at TWI, emphasises the impact of NSIRC's Industrial PhD programme.

Since its inception in 2012, NSIRC has offered over 100 studentships, providing exceptional research opportunities in one of the most esteemed academic cities worldwide. Our students benefit from a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical industry experience, ensuring they are well-equipped to tackle tomorrow's challenges.

In today's competitive landscape, constant innovation is essential. Falling behind can jeopardize revenue and market position.

Partner with NSIRC Today!

Unlock your organisation's potential for innovation with our proven expertise in fostering collaboration between academia and industry. Together, we can develop the technologies that give your business a competitive edge.

Email us to organise a free consultation with the NSIRC team to explore exactly how our model for research success could unlock innovation for your business.

Teletest is a system for detecting pipeline corrosion using guided wave ultrasonic testing. The product was developed from a novel idea and brought to market readiness through NSIRC PhD research. Photo: TWI Ltd
Teletest is a system for detecting pipeline corrosion using guided wave ultrasonic testing. The product was developed from a novel idea and brought to market readiness through NSIRC PhD research. Photo: TWI Ltd