Surrey’s reputation as a leader in cyber security and Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been reinforced with the launch of the new multi-million pound FORT programme.
The ยฃ8 million Centre for Doctoral Training in Future Open Secure Networks (FORT) was launched at the University of Surrey’s 5G/6G Innovation Centre last month.
Running in partnership with Queen’s University Belfast, it will support at least 50 PhD researchers to develop their skills and industry-ready innovations over the next eight years.
They will work with industry partners including Rolls Royce, AWS, HP, Virgin Media, BT and Keysight Technologies.
Academic researchers claim these highly specialised skills are crucial for ensuring private and secure communications in the future.
It will underline the university and wider region’s credentials as an innovation powerhouse which nurtures advanced skills in wireless communications, AI, and cyber security.
What is the FORT programme?
The FORT centre for doctoral training is a community of postgraduate researchers who will become industry-conscious thinkers and leaders.
It is supported by ยฃ8 million in government funding, through the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).
The launch event highlighted the importance of training postgraduate researchers in the fast-evolving fields of wireless communications, AI, cybersecurity, and networking.
It featured demonstrations, discussions and networking sessions. It gave attendees with insights into the future of telecommunications, AI, and cybersecurity.
Industry partners also shared their vision for the collaboration. They also stressed the significance of academic-industry partnerships in addressing the real-world challenges faced by the telecommunications sector.
Professor Rahim Tafazolli, Head of the Institute for Communication Systems (ICS), said: The collaboration between academia and industry is pivotal in positioning the UK as a leader in secure and resilient communications networks.
The launch of FORT is just the beginning of a bold journey towards shaping the future of telecommunications.
“The backing of the EPSRC has been essential in establishing this partnership between Surrey, Queen’s and our 21 valued industry partners. Together we have the potential to deliver a transformational shift in the UK’s position at the heart of innovation for future global telecommunications infrastructure.”
Innovation and Surrey
Surrey is leading the way in several key sectors crucial to the UKโs future economy. And Business Surrey is focused on supporting these sectors to grow and reach their potential.
We’re nurturing and bringing together companies in these key sectors as part of our clusters work.
We are also working with researchers and funding establishments to bring in investment and build infrastructure.
Plus we work with training providers to ensure the countyโs future workforce has the necessary skills for these sectors to prosper for years to come.
Do you work in a cyber or artificial intelligence and looking for support to grow? Get in touch with our experts via our business support form.
