The University of Bristol and the National Institute of Aerospace (NIA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate in areas of advanced composite research and education.

The agreement, with the Advanced Composites Centre for Innovation and Science Doctoral Training Centre (ACCIS DTC), builds on an existing relationship, developed through the ACCIS DTC’s well-established Researcher Exchange Programme, which by inviting worldwide experts to give seminars increases the students’ awareness of multidisciplinary research in the composites field.

The programme also gives students the chance to undertake international placements at leading research organisations to support the development of, and add value to, their PhD project.  ACCIS DTC student, Francesca Pernice, carried out a three-month placement at NASA Langley Research Center, a strategic partner of the NIA, earlier this year.

The new agreement will pave the way for further seminars and short courses at both institutions, exchanges of personnel, collaborative research and the sharing of information and knowledge.

Professor Paul Weaver, Director of the ACCIS DTC, said: “I am absolutely delighted at the prospect of strengthening our continuing relationship with the NIA. This agreement will provide our students with a unique opportunity to undertake collaborative research at a world-leading facility, such as NASA LaRC, and offer our students the chance to learn from, and be inspired, by cutting edge composites research carried out by an unrivalled research organisation.”

Dr Sivaram Arepalli, Vice President of Education and Outreach at the NIA, said: “We are looking forward to this collaborative relationship expanding into the next decade with student and researcher exchanges between the University of Bristol, NASA and NIA member Universities. It is anticipated that students will benefit from the world-class graduate education via courses and research in advanced composites.”