Heriot-Watt University

Heriot-Watt University has a strong heritage which informs its vision as a progressive, connected global university. From its roots in Scotland in 1821 as the world’s first Institute of Mechanics, it has developed as a pioneer of professionally relevant education with outstanding performance in graduate employability. With three campuses in Scotland, and in Dubai and Malaysia, the University continues to build an international presence and impact through focusing on its strengths in learning and teaching and world-leading research.

Interdisciplinary research spans engineering and energy; physical, social, life and computer sciences, business and finance, textiles and design. From robotics and photonics to carbon capture and homelessness, global research is focused on major global challenges and delivers results with direct impact on real-world problems. The University was ranked the 9th university in the UK and 1st in Scotland for research impact in the last REF.

A key focus is on driving forward policy and legislative change. Emerging evidence suggests the impact of COVID-19 is being felt disproportionally amongst minority groups, with in-work poverty also likely to increase under a pandemic-driven recession, exacerbating long-standing issues of social exclusion. Policy-makers, globally, are seeking ways in which economies can be restarted, while addressing these issues.Heriot-Watt has outstanding expertise in research and policy around inequality and sustainability, both integral to the current challenges of economic and social recovery. We aim to drive forward policy and legislation, to provoke change and drive collaboration amongst economists, business leaders and governments.