University and innovation leaders from Exeter’s French twin city Rennes visited Exeter Science Park to discuss a shared commitment to research, innovation, enterprise and the exchange of ideas.
Representatives from the University of Rennes and Rennes’ technology sector toured the park, met businesses, researchers and French exchange students, and explored opportunities to build stronger links between universities and innovative companies in both cities.
Exeter Science Park is the South West’s centre of activity for businesses in science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine.
It provides offices, laboratories and space for innovative companies to grow, while encouraging collaboration between business, research and education.
Exeter City Council is one of the park’s partners and has reaffirmed its support for the site as a driver of high-quality jobs and economic growth.
Cllr Lucy Findlay, Exeter City Council’s Lead Councillor for Culture, who attended the visit, said: “It was an honour to meet President David Alis and his delegation from the University of Rennes at Exeter Science Park.
“Exeter and Rennes share many challenges, not least the weather, as our meeting during Storm Austen reminded us. There is so much we can learn from one another.
“During the visit, we met French exchange students at the University of Exeter who are researching ways to make bricks more resistant to wet weather. They spoke about the value of sharing ideas across borders, the opportunities to work in a British company and the difference their exchange experience has made to their future careers.
“Having taken part in many international exchanges throughout my career, I know first-hand how valuable these experiences can be. They have enriched my work, opened my eyes to different cultures and ways of doing things, and left me with life-changing experiences and lasting memories.
“I look forward to further opportunities to strengthen these connections and share knowledge with our twin cities.”
Cllr Ruth Williams, Deputy Leader of Exeter City Council, said: “My 40 year career in science education and training means I very aware of the importance of Exeter Science Park to Exeter’s STEMM research and business opportunities.
“Exeter Science Park plays an important role in our city’s economy, bringing businesses, researchers and educators together to turn innovative ideas into opportunity.
“Visits like this strengthen Exeter’s international relationships, encourage the exchange of knowledge and help us support the high-quality, skilled jobs our city and the wider region need.”
Lindsay Lucas, Chief Executive Officer of Exeter Science Park, said: “It was an honour and a pleasure to host president of the University of Rennes David Alis, and his delegation at Exeter Science Park and to showcase some of the fascinating work taking place here.
“This included Hypha-Pro’s work on the genetic modification of fungi, and the advanced materials research and development being undertaken at Innano by French students who are spending six months at the park through a University of Exeter programme.
“I was also privileged to read a letter from the Lord Mayor of Exeter, who was unfortunately unable to attend but wanted to extend a warm welcome to our friends from Rennes. This was very well received by everyone in the party.
“The opportunity to exchange ideas with Daniel Gerges from ‘Le Poool’ in Rennes (the city’s equivalent of Exeter Science Park) and to explore how innovation and business connect in our two countries was fascinating.”
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