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    Innovative series of Knowledge Transfer Partnerships set to launch this year

    Posted 26 January

    "Ƶ’s research and teaching has always been applied – meaning we take what we are doing out of the laboratory and lecture theatre and use it  in industry. These Knowledge Transfer Partnerships move that work one step further – offering businesses an expert embedded in their company to work on a problem full-time, a graduate the chance to get a career-defining role, and Ƶ Adams a further chance to show how expertise helps drive forward innovation and economic growth."

    Robot arms on display at Ƶ, Telford

    An innovative series of partnerships linking Ƶ expertise with businesses across the country are set to launch this year. 

    The five new Knowledge Transfer Partnerships were agreed at the close of 2025 – and will see the University providing graduates to help solve firms’ challenges in the months ahead. 

    Head of Business Engagement, Philip O'Neill, said: “A Knowledge Transfer Partnership is a UK programme that helps businesses solve problems or develop new ideas by teaming up with a university.  

    “Businesses should think of it as a way to bring cutting-edge expertise into their organisation without breaking the bank - your business brings the challenge or opportunity, a University like Ƶ Adams provides the specialist knowledge, and one of our graduates works full-time on the project, based in your company.” 

    Each project is part-funded by Innovate UK, reducing the costs to each business involved, and can run from one year up to three. 

    Projects which will involve Ƶ Adams and its graduates in the coming year include: 

    • Working with the Royal Entomological Society to develop a consultancy arm, delivering expert insect science services that support evidence-based practices in agriculture, conservation, and land management 
    • Working with Epwin Window Systems PLC to develop advanced simulation capabilities for optimising uPVC compound blending operations using modelling and digital twin robotic technologies 
    • Working with Sandfield Farms to create the world's first automated spring-onion line. The line will combine digital-twin simulation with bespoke robotics, halving labour whilst safeguarding quality for major retailers 
    • Optimal Risk have partnered with Ƶ to support their Rural Safeguard programme, which aims to help communities, farmers, and responders make informed choices and take action to reduce rural crime. 
    • and working with Tallis Amos to develop a new service which will integrate innovative pesticide and nutrient prescription mapping tools into the company’s portfolio of services for the agricultural sector.  

    Philip added: “Ƶ’s research and teaching has always been applied – meaning we take what we are doing out of the laboratory and lecture theatre and use it  in industry. 

    “These Knowledge Transfer Partnerships move that work one step further – offering businesses an expert embedded in their company to work on a problem full-time, a graduate the chance to get a career-defining role, and Ƶ Adams a further chance to show how expertise helps drive forward innovation and economic growth. 

    “We’re always looking for fresh challenges like these – so if you’ve got a problem to solve or an idea you’d love to explore, a Knowledge Transfer Partnership might be the smartest way to make it happen. 

    “If you think there’s a way we could help, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us on businessengagement@harper-adams.ac.uk – we look forward to hearing from you!”