Overview
Join us for Universities UK's annual research and innovation conference - a key event bringing together senior leaders, researchers and policymakers from across the sector to explore the evolving landscape of research, innovation, policy and partnership.
This one-day conference will examine the opportunities and challenges shaping the UK's research and innovation system, from research funding and policy to innovation, collaboration, and devolution. Through keynote speakers, interactive discussions and sector-leading insights, delegates will explore how universities can strengthen research excellence, deliver impact and respond to an evolving regional, national and international landscape.
Why should you attend?
This year’s conference will provide:
- Insights into emerging research and innovation policy, funding and national priorities.
- Discussions on the future of research assessment and institutional strategy.
- Perspectives on innovation, commercialisation and partnerships with business, industry and government.
- Exploration of inclusive innovation, the increasing importance of place and devolution scenarios
- Opportunities to explore collaboration across the UK and internationally.
- Interactive discussions focused on the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of research and innovation.
Expect thought-provoking keynote speakers, practical insights and plenty of opportunities to network, exchange ideas and connect with colleagues from across the sector.
You will also be able to access the recordings of the plenary sessions after the event.
Here’s what past attendees had to say:
“A hugely valuable event, in which the key issues relevant to research leadership were explored.”
“An exceptional opportunity to learn from government and interact with UKRI, UK and EU research leadership- a fascinating and worthwhile investment of time”
“I found this an incredibly valuable event to attend (online). It gave me a much clearer understanding of the current priorities and direction of travel within R&D across the sector. All the topics covered were particularly thought-provoking. This insight will help me bring informed perspectives back to my institution and advocate more effectively for positive steps toward a brighter, more impactful future both for our academics and research environment.”
Have any questions?
Contact us at [email protected] or call 020 7419 5459.
We allow delegates to cancel their bookings up to one month before the event and receive a refund. If this applies to you, please contact us at the email above.
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Agenda
Speakers
Dr Peter O'Brien
Executive Director
Yorkshire Universities
Peter leads the Yorkshire Universities’ (YU) Executive Team, and he is Company Secretary for the Limited Company and Charity. With over two decades’ experience, as both a senior practitioner and academic, Peter has driven YU’s increasing and influential policy engagement and activity in Yorkshire. He has worked extensively at a senior level across the north of England, and he has published widely on a range of matters relating to local and regional development. Peter is a Commissioner on the Yorkshire and Humber Climate Commission, he also represents YU and the higher education sector on many high-level regional groups and committees.
Professor Richard Watermeyer
Professor of Higher Education and Co-Director of the Centre for Higher Education
University of Bristol
Richard Watermeyer is Professor of Higher Education and Co-Director of the Centre for Higher Education Transformations (CHET) at the University of Bristol.
Professor Jane Robinson
Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Business, Partnerships and Place
Newcastle University
Jane sits on the University Executive Board and leads the Engagement & Place Strategy, focussing on building partnerships to enhance the societal benefit of the university. She is also executive lead for sustainability and social justice. Previously, Jane was Durham University’s Chief Operating Officer with strategic oversight of operations and external engagement. Before taking up her position at Durham, Jane was Chief Executive of Gateshead Council, playing a central role in the culture-led regeneration of the borough. Jane has also held leadership positions in the cultural sector, including Director of External Relations at Arts Council England, demonstrating extensive leadership experience.
Dr Helen Turner
Director
Midlands Innovation
Helen Turner is Director of Midlands Innovation, a partnership of eight research intensive Midlands universities. A materials scientist by background, she leads major collaborative programmes including Forging Ahead and AI.RDN+, and has driven initiatives such as Midlands Mindforge, strengthening skills, investment and innovation capacity to support regional growth and global competitiveness.
Who should attend?
This conference is open to all with an interest in this topic. Relevant job titles include:
- Pro-Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation/Enterprise
- Director/Head of Research and Innovation/Enterprise
- Knowledge Exchange Manager/Officer
- Research Compliance Manager/Officer
- Principal Researcher
- Policy Analyst/Officer/Advisor
- Head/Officer for Research Development/Commercial
Sponsorship
We have a range of sponsorship opportunities available at our events. Please see our webpage for more information, or contact Magda/Jacob: [email protected]
Pricing
Booking
T&Cs
Terms and Conditions:
In registering for this event, you agree to the following terms: cancellations must be received in writing (to [email protected]) by 04 November 2026 to qualify for a refund. We regret that no refund can be made for cancellations received after this time; however substitute delegates will be accepted. If sending a substitute delegate please provide the registered delegate’s full name and the substitute delegate’s full name, job title, organisation, and email address to [email protected].
Non-payment of an invoice does not count as cancellation and you will still be liable for the full cost. Non-appearances on the day are also liable for the full cost. Refunds for places paid for online using a credit or debit card will be returned minus the transaction fee charged by our booking site.
This event is exempt from VAT.
Membership Code Request
Please use the form below to request your membership code. You will receive an email within a few minutes.