NSRI APPOINTS ACADEMIC RESEARCH DIRECTOR

The National Subsea Research Institute (NSRI) has appointed Dr. Richard Neilson as academic research director. Dr. Neilson has more than 20 years experience as a lecturer and researcher in a number of Scottish Universities. During this time he spent four years on secondment with oil service company, Rotech Drilling Services, where he was responsible for the design and analysis of downhole tools. Dr Neilson has a PhD and BSc in Mechanical Engineering and an MSc in Biomedical Engineering. A partnership between Subsea UK, the University of Aberdeen, Newcastle University, Robert Gordon University and the University of Dundee, NSRI’s aim is to develop and lead a coordinated research strategy for the subsea sector, developing and maintaining the UK’s position as a centre of excellence for subsea technology and skills. Commenting on his appointment, Dr. Neilson said: “This is an exciting opportunity for me. NSRI provides all sectors of the subsea industry with the opportunity to engage in improving its productivity and with a radical forward outlook I look forward to what the future will bring as NSRI continues to develop.” NSRI chairman, Bill Edgar said: “We are delighted to welcome Richard to this key position and believe his combination of industry and academic experience will further strengthen the team at NSRI. “Following our launch in 2009, we have had a successful first year having achieved 17 new members and with Richard on board he will contribute to achieving NSRI’s aim to channel research and development, skills training and education so the subsea industry can achieve its strategic aims in a cost efficient, coordinated fashion.” About NSRI NSRI has been established by the University of Aberdeen, the Robert Gordon University, the University of Dundee, Newcastle University and Subsea UK (the NSRI Partners) to provides a focus for research & development, and also for skills training and education, to enable the UK subsea industry to achieve its strategic aims in a cost efficient, coordinated fashion. NSRI is being financially supported by government and industry in its development phase. Companies subscribing as members to NSRI, work with NSRI to establish the research strategy and research priorities. Government support is currently provided through Scottish Enterprise and the Scottish Funding Council.