The Memorandum of Understanding has been established to facilitate joint research opportunities across a range of disciplines at Swansea University including science.  It recognises that both Swansea University and Natural Resources Wales share research interests together with facilities and equipment that provide many opportunities for collaboration.

The new NRW laboratory for scientific analysis based at Swansea University’s Singleton Park campus will open in March 2017.  Staff working at NRW’s current laboratory, based in Llanelli, will start working at the new NRW Analytical Services at Swansea University site from March.

Staff at the new laboratory will continue to carry out essential environmental analysis work for NRW, such as testing the quality of the water from Welsh beaches to ensure it is safe to swim in. The laboratory also offers unlimited opportunities for joint research ventures between NRW and Swansea University.

Professor Steve Wilks, Pro Vice Chancellor at Swansea University, (pictured, right) said: “This is an exciting development for both Swansea University and Natural Resources Wales.  Our aim at Swansea is to develop a world-class environment in which to conduct multidisciplinary research.  This alliance, together with the new NRW laboratory at Swansea University will offer unlimited opportunities for collaborative research, allow the University,  working with NRW, to improve the quality and breadth of evidence used to inform NRW decisions and play a significant role in positively shaping the environment of Wales.”

Dr Emyr Roberts, Chief Executive of Natural Resources Wales, (pictured above, left) said:

“The new laboratory at Swansea University’s Singleton Park campus will provide our staff with a world-class facility to carry out the important work we do to support the sustainable management of our natural resources.”

“We’re looking forward to being able to expand our range of services and develop a wider commercial client base.”

“The new laboratory will not only accommodate current needs and future growth, but offer exciting prospects for joint research ventures between NRW and Swansea University.”