Royal Academy of Engineering: Visiting professors initiative

07/03/2024

29/04/2024

The scheme supports the appointment of experienced industrial engineers, entrepreneurs or consultants as Visiting Professors in engineering (and related) academic units (for example faculties, schools or departments) at UK universities. This industry-into-academia initiative aims to utilise the knowledge and experience of the Visiting Professor (VP) to enhance student learning as well as improve the employability and skills of UK engineering graduates while strengthening university partnerships with industry. The scheme particularly supports activity - and experience-based learning approaches. It does not directly support research interactions between industry and academia, for which separate schemes exist. This award (which follows successful application by the UK host university) provides the support necessary for the attendance of the Visiting Professor at the host university for at least 12 days a year to a maximum value of £10,000 a year over three years - a maximum of £30,000 in total.

The main objectives of the scheme are to: Facilitate closer collaboration between industry and universities. Inspire the next generation of engineers to the benefit of UK industry. Provide advice and guidance to universities on degree programme strategies to align with industry needs. Deliver teaching and learning on relevant engineering degree programmes. Provide students with real-life industrial contexts and scenarios.

Eligibility Note Eligibility criteria Applications must be made jointly by the relevant UK host university representative with input from the nominated Visiting Professor (VP). The VP can only be funded for one post during the three year award. Existing VPs (or those who have completed their 3 year tenure) cannot apply for further funding to continue on for a second term. The VP cannot apply if they are already working with the university in any capacity. This is about creating new links and work strands.