Collaborative research and development
Heriot-Watt University actively collaborates with industry, government, and other academic institutions on joint research projects to tackle pressing global challenges and drive economic growth. Our collaborative research and development (R&D) partnerships blend academic excellence with commercial insight to create real-world solutions that deliver tangible benefits for your organisation and society.
Why collaborate with Heriot-Watt?
- World-class expertise and facilities: Gain access to our internationally recognised academics and cutting-edge research infrastructure, empowering you to solve complex problems and seize new opportunities.
- Tailored solutions and flexible approaches: We understand that each organisation has unique needs. Our collaborative projects are customised to your goals, ensuring alignment with your strategic priorities and maximising project success.
- Funding opportunities and project support: We regularly facilitate collaborative funding through public bodies, including Innovate UK, Research Councils, Scottish Enterprise, and international funders, providing significant financial support and reducing your investment risk.
Types of collaborative research projects
We engage across various formats tailored to your needs, including:
- Jointly funded industry-academic research.
- Consortium-based innovation projects.
- Strategic R&D partnerships and alliances.
- Sponsored doctoral research (PhD and EngD).
Work with us
Whether you’re a startup, SME, or large multinational, Heriot-Watt offers a collaborative approach to innovation, designed to unlock your organisation’s full potential and accelerate your journey to market.
Contact our business and enterprise team today to discuss collaboration opportunities and start driving forward your next big idea.
Collaborative research in practice
View some of our case studies below to understand more about our approach to collaboration.
Illuminating the quantum frontier: Heriot-Watt and NASA are transforming single-photon tech
Heriot-Watt University NASA & Caltech: quantum synergy
Integrated Quantum Networking (IQN) Hub: pioneering a ‘near-unhackable’ internet
Heriot-Watt leads the Integrated Quantum Networking (IQN) Hub, part of a national initiative supported by £19.5m from UKRI and over £20m from 40+ industry partners.
Sustaining the future of fishing: how Heriot-Watt helped Orkney’s brown crab fishery thrive
Heriot-Watt University supported Orkney Fisheries Association to develop the UK’s first Fishery Improvement Plan, boosting sustainability, traceability, and market value.
Building innovation: An awesome partnership driving industry solutions
Explore how a strategic partnership is fostering industry innovation, delivering impactful solutions across multiple sectors.
Glenmorangie and Heriot-Watt: Sustaining Scotland’s natural heritage through oyster restoration
As part of Glenmorangie’s sustainability strategy, the Dornoch Environmental Enhancement Project emerged through a collaboration with Heriot-Watt.
Driving innovation in logistics: how Trakm8 and Heriot-Watt transformed delivery optimisation
Heriot-Watt University’s long-term collaboration with Trakm8 has delivered award-winning optimisation algorithms, saving over £9.6m and reducing emissions by 3,000 tonnes.