Swansea University is making significant progress on plans to expand its College of Engineering following the completion of a new research facility.

The Institute for Innovative Materials, Processing and Numerical Technologies (IMPACT) combines laboratory and office space for top talent to partner up and conduct world-leading science in the fields of advanced engineering, modelling and materials.

IMPACT will seek to tackle bold challenges such as the generation of renewable technologies, creating novel materials, and delivering the fourth industrial revolution in manufacturing.

Gary Overton, director at architecture and building consultancy practice, AHR, which designed the building, said: "As a powerful, collaborative environment, we approached the design for IMPACT in a way that prioritised a multidisciplinary way of working throughout. The environment stimulates ingenuity by working with the people inside, embedding connectivity between core research areas so that the industry and academia feel like the spaces are encouraging them to work together as one. We're delighted with the result and especially excited to hear about the inspiring work that will be taking place at IMPACT."


Professor Johann Sienz, Director of Innovation and Engagement in the College of Engineering at Swansea University, and Director of IMPACT, added: "AHR has converted our discussions into what already now feels will be an excellent and inspirational working environment for the many academics, researchers, students, visitors and collaborators from companies and academia."

IMPACT follows the success of the neighbouring Computational Foundry building, also designed by AHR, which opened earlier this year. The two major new buildings at Swansea Bay Campus establishes a global destination for research at the University.

(CM/MH)