The University of Dundee and Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc (MSIP) have announced a strategic partnership, with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding.

MSIP, a joint venture between Michelin Dundee City Council, and Scottish Enterprise, is a world class Innovation Parc in Dundee for advanced manufacturing and technology, that will drive growth and diversity in the Scottish economy while addressing the global climate emergency.

The University of Dundee, with world-leading technology experts and advanced research facilities, has a strong track record of commercialisation and technology breakthroughs.

Today’s MoU will bring together the University and MSIP into an exciting collaboration that will enable the innovation of new products and processes for those located at the Innovation Parc, to develop new and advancing products for the future of sustainable mobility and low carbon energy.

The University of Dundee will make connections with MSIP’s tenant companies, connecting the University’s people, research and innovations to industry, as well as having access to MSIP’s flexible space for start-ups, spin outs and research and development.

MSIP and the University will also work together to identify and apply for relevant funding opportunities and collaborate on MSIP’s Skills Academy and Accelerator Programme delivered by Elevator.

This partnership will allow MSIP to benefit from the University’s expertise across a range of relevant areas, as well as its extensive experience in design and development and design for manufacture.

A Partnership Steering Group will be established to progress this collaboration.

John Reid, CEO of MSIP said: “At Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc we want to create a community of collaboration where the best academics and like-minded companies come together to innovate, create the skills of the future and develop new products and processes to tackle the climate emergency head on.

“The University of Dundee has a strong network of local and global partnerships and collaborations, and an exceptional offering in R&D and commercialisation of technology. It also produces excellent graduates in a range of disciplines directly relevant to MSIP.  We are excited to see what future opportunities this partnership with the University of Dundee brings.”

Professor John Rowan, Vice-Principal (Research, Knowledge Exchange and Wider Impact) at the University, said, “The University is one of the main drivers of the economy of Dundee and the Tay Cities area. We want to stimulate new enterprise and business locally, which can also make an impact globally.

“Working with MISP and other partners will help us create new opportunities and establish new jobs, bringing investment to Dundee and also helping us retain and develop expertise and skills in the city.”