Enhanced Defence Academic Engagement

Tender description

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is proposing an ambitious new approach to the way we work with UK academia. Whilst recognising the excellent contributions that UK academia already make to defence science and technology (S&T), MOD is looking to enhance these interactions further to enable game-changing increases in the momentum, breadth and presence of engagement for defence-oriented research and innovation. This new approach will offer increased opportunities for academia, funding a future pipeline of highly skilled staff and helping shape the future of Defence. To drive the delivery of the best S&T that will underpin the defence and security of the UK in the future, MOD is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) to the academic community and interested parties. The objective of the RFI is to obtain feedback and views (via survey) on indicative implementation options, to help shape what our future academic engagement looks like. The implementation options in the RFI are not prescribed, so we are interested in views from all interested parties on how best we can work in concert with academia. MOD Chief Scientific Adviser, Professor Vernon Gibson said: "The UK has world-leading academic institutions with some of the brightest minds conducting cutting-edge science and technology research. Through our enhanced academic engagement, we want to bring this to bear on our most intractable challenges to help us shape the future of Defence; not just in the technologies that are developed, but also in the creation of vibrant talent pipelines that will ensure the UK remains a leading force for good in the world." "I call upon everyone to help us design a truly ambitious engagement model by providing your thoughts and comments during this initial consultation period." Dstl Chief Technical Officer, Professor Andy Bell said: "It is vital for MOD to bring ambitious and strategic intent to how it works collaboratively with the UK academic sector, if it is to maintain its competitive edge ahead of its adversaries into the future." "We also need to be a partner and employer of choice for the best minds in the UK. This consultation is the first stage towards a step change in the way we work together at scale, with momentum and purpose, to develop the technological capabilities and skills base that are critical for the Defence and Security Enterprise, and the UK more widely." For more information on how our plans for enhanced academic engagement could support a productive and prosperous future for your organisation, and for an opportunity to provide your feedback on these plans, please access the attachments below for the full RFI description and a link to the survey. The survey is open from 16th April and will close at 23:59 on 12th May 2024.