Eastern Arc, a collaboration between the Universities of Kent, Essex, East Anglia and Sussex, is launching a £3 million project for Research Technical Professionals (RTPs) after securing a significant amount of funding from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).
Crafted by and for technicians, the Technical Platform for Innovation and Knowledge Exchange (T-PIKE) transcends a traditional program – it’s a dynamic exchange where university and industry technicians share wisdom, shaping a new era of technical mastery. From seasoned mentors to aspiring innovators, T-PIKE nurtures every participant’s potential. The project is being led by Research Technical Professionals (RTPs) at Kent, alongside those from the three other Eastern Arc universities. They will develop training on knowledge exchange, work with industry to create placements, offer career development opportunities for those within the sector, and champion the work of technicians more broadly.
‘Beyond a program, T-PIKE is a demonstration of our commitment to the technical community,’ explains University of Kent Technical Manager (Technician Commitment), Jo Scamp. ‘It’s about pioneering, collaborating, and leading. We’re not just raising the bar on technical skills and recognition – we’re transforming it.’
Fuelled by a £1.5 million EPSRC grant and support from academic and industry leaders, T-PIKE signifies a collective endorsement of the value of the consortium’s technical workforce. Set to launch in April 2024, it will form part of UK Research and Innovation’s funded TALENT programme led by the UK Institute of Technical Skills & Strategy.
Eastern Arc Director, Phil Ward, welcomed the news of this new funding: ‘It’s a testament to the outstanding work of our research technical professionals. They identified the need and led on the bid, and I’m delighted to see their vision realised. Our work in coordinating the sharing of equipment across the consortium will, I hope, provide further opportunities for T-PIKE and wider RTP collaborations. I look forward to supporting them as they continue to develop links through the Eastern ARC Technicians’ Network.’
Director of Research and Innovation, Kerry Barber said: ‘We’re not just witnessing the inception of a new knowledge exchange platform – we’re setting a new standard for technical development in research and innovation. This initiative is a resounding endorsement of the crucial role our technicians play in supporting innovative teaching and research. The journey ahead is as exciting as it is essential, and the impact of T-PIKE will be felt across the region.’