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Research security: a vital aspect of Foreign and Direct Investment

Midlands Innovation is a strategic partnership of eight research-intensive universities. Universities in the Midlands and the pan-regional growth body, the Midlands Engine, are piloting how universities can work together to attract Foreign Direct Investment into regional Research and Development.

HEPI’s report, The role of universities in driving overseas investment into UK Research and Development, published on 7 March 2023 provides national analysis of what is happening in this space.

Here, Professor Karen Holford CBE FREng, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Cranfield University, writes as the first in a series of blogs from Midlands Innovation on the key considerations for policymakers and the higher education sector on increasing investment into regional R&D through universities.

Foreign investors play a vital role in the success of UK R&D and are increasingly becoming a key source of private funding into university research. Across 15 universities in the Midlands, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) accounted for around 37 per cent of all industry income in 2019/20.

The UK is recognised as one of the best places in the world to invest in R&D. Investors are attracted to excellent academic talent, facilities and the UK’s clusters of specialist expertise. The UK benefits greatly from its global connections and international research collaborations.

Collaborations with international partners are vital to the continued growth and success of the economy, for creating opportunities for our young, and adding richness and variety to social and cultural life.

But there is a balance to strike, and we must ensure that in our search for partners we do not risk the security of our research.

This is something that Cranfield University, founded in the post-war years at the instigation of government and industry, is well versed in. Our history of close relationships with industrial, academic and government partners means that research security is embedded in our culture. Working on highly sensitive international and commercial projects is something Cranfield has done for decades.

FDI is crucial but security isn’t an optional extra

Inward investment and partnership building is a crucial component in realising the Government’s ambitions to become a scientific superpower, and the 2020 UUKi report Future International Partnerships articulates the influential role universities have.

International investors are generally more agile, willing to take risks and have a drive to commercialise R&D. They also want to invest long-term to see technologies come to fruition – this brings a real opportunity for strategic investment and development of research, enabling us to work at scale. However, there is a level of risk.

Geopolitical tensions, a fast-changing external environment and a myriad of legislation makes research security a complex area. And the higher education sector has a duty to its academic staff, industry partners and international colleagues to operate in a secure way.

This isn’t an optional extra – it is essential; the reputation of UK universities depends on it.

The National Securities and Investment Act (2021) is front of mind for university research ethics groups. The impact of this is already being felt with the recent blocking of a UK university licensing deal. It is now integral to how we work, and universities should draw on the Research Collaboration Advice Team and the Higher Education Export Controls Association for advice and to protect international projects.

The Cranfield experience

At Cranfield University we embed security within our research culture. We have adopted a holistic and evolving approach to security ensuring it is proportionate across the relevant aspects of our activities. We have also recognised the need for a country agnostic approach to avoid prejudice, discrimination and impact on our international community.

A physical embodiment of an international collaboration and a result of FDI is the Aerospace Integration Research Centre – an innovative hangar space and laboratories where multi-nationals work alongside academics. Similarly our Digital Aviation Research and Technology Centre involves international partners using the latest technologies to address aviation research challenges.

The understanding of commercial confidentiality runs deep in everyone working in these spaces and is highly protected. Robust mechanisms guarantee safe, secure internationalisation. This gives industry partners and investors confidence in our security and research integrity.

Key to delivering these projects is a focus on supporting staff; with development opportunities to explore commercial, ethical and security aspects of research. Sharing knowledge around how to operate with partners complex security needs is vital to protecting research integrity as individuals and institutionally.

Stronger through collaboration

The complexities of FDI can be difficult for universities to navigate, which makes it essential that we work together to share good research security practice and collaborate to attract inward investment to the benefit of all. A joined-up consistent approach is a powerful prospect for investors and gives them confidence in robust research security. Anchoring opportunities regionally or as part of a cluster of expertise represents a strong way forward and we need coordination as a sector to deliver this.

One such example is the way in which Midlands Innovation is currently contributing to a Department for Science, Innovation and Technology funded pilot in the Midlands, working with UUKi, UKRI and NCUB, developing a forward plan to attract investment. This long-term approach could create a more ambitious approach to FDI which would benefit many universities and their regions. I welcome the pilot, working together will improve our approach to security, and opens the door to working together to attract investment.

Ultimately, we all have a role to play in helping to unlock the potential of FDI, and universities are pivotal as a bridge between local partners, government and industry. Only by working together will we achieve our ambition of making the UK a scientific superpower.

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Tattoo Artist, Entrepreneur, and Oil Painter Kirby van Beek Makes a Mark in the Industry

Kirby van Beek, a talented tattoo artist, entrepreneur, and oil painter, has emerged as a prominent figure in the world of tattooing, showcasing his expertise in black and grey realism. Known for his distinctive designs and captivating portraits with a dark twist, Kirby has established himself as a highly regarded artist, earning recognition both locally and internationally.

Kirby’s journey as a tattoo artist began at the age of 18 when he taught himself the art form while simultaneously pursuing his education in forensic science. During this time, he displayed unparalleled dedication, working at a morgue during the week and honing his tattooing skills during weekends and spare hours. Kirby’s passion for tattooing led him to work at various tattoo studios in the Netherlands, solidifying his experience and expertise in the field.

About Kirby van Beek:

Kirby van Beek is a talented tattoo artist, entrepreneur, and oil painter based in [City]. Renowned for his expertise in black and grey realism, Kirby’s distinctive designs and captivating portraits with a dark twist have earned him a prominent position in the industry. With a passion for tattooing and oil painting, Kirby aspires to become a globally recognized artist, leaving a lasting impact on the world of art.

«The things I love most about tattooing is meeting different clients and getting to know them on a personal level during a long tattoo session,» says Kirby. «There is nothing more rewarding than tattooing individuals who appreciate my art so much that they choose to wear it on their skin for life.»

Specializing in realistic black and grey tattoos, portrait tattoos, and horror tattoos, Kirby’s work has garnered attention both nationally and internationally. His talents have been showcased at several tattoo conventions abroad, and his captivating designs have been featured in prominent tattoo magazines. Additionally, he has been recognized by esteemed publications such as LINDA magazine in the Netherlands and the local newspaper BN de Stem. Furthermore, Kirby’s exceptional skills led him to participate as a tattoo artist in the Dutch version of MTV’s Just Tattoo of Us.

Looking ahead, Kirby aspires to become a world-renowned tattoo artist and oil painter, with a particular focus on portrait tattoos and dark horror tattoos.

His ultimate goal is to reach clients and famous individuals around the globe, sharing his unique artistry and leaving an indelible mark on the industry. In the future, Kirby envisions opening an art show to showcase his diverse body of work.

To learn more about Kirby van Beek and explore his captivating portfolio, visit his official Instagram page (@kirbyvanbeek) or his website www.the-continental.nl.

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DJ Khenya Takes Center Stage at Blue Marlin Ibiza, Spreading Joy and Connection

The music of DJ Khenya pulsates with rhythm and emotion. A rich mélange of sun-kissed sounds that blend percussive beats with indie and deep house. The artist’s journey to Ibiza has laid the foundation for a musical expression that communicates joy and connectivity. Taking the reins at Blue Marlin Ibiza, Khenya’s vibrations will inspire dance floor dreamers to move and let go.

From the stage at Blue Marlin Ibiza, DJ Khenya has shared experiences alongside some of the most influential names in the music industry. When asked about the impact of these experiences, the artist responded humbly: «The truth is I feel lucky. I have total admiration for them as they are a source of inspiration for me.»

The energy at Blue Marlin Ibiza is unlike any other, according to DJ Khenya. He describes the place as «a life experience,» synonymous with summer and with all the ingredients to feel in a state of bliss when you’re there. He thanks the team for being like a family to him and for everything they’ve done.

This summer, DJ Khenya will take his audience on a journey filled with unforgettable emotions. He comments, «My goal is to transmit uplifting and unforgettable sensations. My audience is what sets my heart on fire, and I want them to feel my desire to make them dance.»

The path that led DJ Khenya to become a DJ began in Havacia, Cuba, where he grew up in an environment where rhythm, dance, and poetry are like the air we breathe. With son and salsa running through his veins, his first experience at an electronic music party in the early 2000s marked a shift in his life. Khenya recalls hearing ‘The Underground’ by Celeda and says, «It was a different Cuba, and I loved it. I think from that moment, something changed inside me. A seed had been planted, and life would take me in that direction.»

Having traveled the world and now based in Ibiza, DJ Khenya reflects on how these experiences have shaped his identity as an artist. He comments, «Traveling the world is a privilege that every human being should have, especially an artist because when you have these experiences, you can understand different ways of life and the musicality of each place. Creativity is born from that knowledge, and I still have a lot to learn in that sense.»

This summer, DJ Khenya promises to take Blue Marlin Ibiza to new heights with his unique music and his desire to make everyone dance. The experience is guaranteed to be a celebration of life, joy, and connection through music.

News

Oliver Rouz: Weaving Ink and Inspiration into a Legacy

Born on February 13th, 1988, Oliver Rouz’s path to success is one marked by determination, passion, and the pursuit of creative endeavors. From a young age, Oliver exhibited a profound love for various forms of creativity, which ultimately led him to become one of the country’s most celebrated tattoo artists.

During his school years, Oliver’s artistic talent set him apart. His favorite cartoon characters became his canvas as he tirelessly recreated them in his own style. However, drawing was merely a pastime during his teenage years, a source of pleasure until music took center stage in his life.

In 2005, Oliver formed the «Fairy Tale Jelissa Rose» band, a pivotal moment that expanded his horizons. Immersed in the music community, he developed a newfound fascination with tattoos and ink artistry, spurred by the band’s association with the tattoo culture.

A serendipitous encounter with Artem at the «Quick Silver» shop in Moscow in 2010 marked a turning point. Artem’s influence led Oliver to consider a life-altering decision. By 2012, Oliver, now ignited by a passion for tattoos, made a bold move to another city, all while nurturing his tattoo aspirations.

Artem’s transformation into a tattoo artist himself inspired Oliver further. As fate would have it, an opportunity arose in 2012 for them to collaborate and open their tattoo studio in Moscow. This venture required Oliver’s dedicated efforts, alongside his commitment to saving funds to fuel their creative endeavor.

Oliver’s tattooing prowess flourished within a year, prompting a return to his hometown to establish several home-like studios. Yet, he recognized that true growth beckoned him back to Moscow. Thus, in 2017, he joined Good Hands Tattoo, laying the foundation for his continued ascent.

Oliver’s indomitable spirit and devotion to his craft bore fruit, as evidenced by his stint at Black Point studio, born out of a collective dream. His trajectory exemplifies the power of dedication, leading him to become a recognized tattoo luminary within the nation.

Oliver’s journey, however, extends beyond tattooing. From his early affinity for music, highlighted by the formation of his punk rock band at 14, to his involvement in the music industry and flirtation with global recognition, his story embodies the resilience required to navigate creative industries.

A pivotal moment arrived in 2021 when Oliver, undeterred by previous setbacks, chose to channel his creative energy into designing game art. Leaving behind a stable job, he invested his savings of around $5,000 to embark on a transformative journey. Guided by Hexeth’s interview and tutorials, Oliver delved into the realm of game design.

Fueled by dedication and a newfound purpose, Oliver’s creative expression culminated in designing elements for popular games like CS:GO and RUST. Through unwavering commitment and rigorous self-education, he harnessed the potential of his artistic flair.

Today, Oliver Rouz’s name resonates as a testament to the potential of human determination. His path from a young artist with a penchant for creation to a revered tattoo and game artist serves as an inspiration to countless dreamers. Oliver’s legacy continues to evolve, as he pushes the boundaries of his craft and inspires others to chase their passions unrelentingly.

For more information and to view Oliver’s work, visit his Instagram profile: @oliverrouz.