New partnership for scientific research in Wales
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) and Swansea University announce plans for a brand new laboratory for scientific analysis within the University’s Singleton Campus.
Work to build the new NRW Analytical Services facility within The Faraday building will start immediately, with staff scheduled relocate from their Llanelli base into the laboratory in September.
At the new laboratory, staff will continue to carry out essential environmental analysis work for NRW, such as testing the quality of the water from our beaches every summer. In addition, the NRW Analytical Services facility is looking to offer the services it provides to NRW, to a wider commercial client base.
Dave Gazzard, Analytical Services Manager at Natural Resources Wales:
“Our new world-class laboratory will help our staff with the important work we do at Natural Resources Wales for the people, economy and environment in Wales.
“For example, we test more than 2,000 samples of bathing water collected by NRW staff every year. We monitor where there may be problems, and help make sure the waters on our beaches are safe for us to swim in.”
“We also investigate incidents, such as illegal waste sites and pollution, so we can tackle illegal activity.”
The new laboratory will not only accommodate current needs and future growth, but offer unlimited opportunities for joint research ventures between NRW and Swansea University.
The organisations will work together to improve the quality and breadth of evidence used to inform NRW decisions and allow the University staff and students to play a significant role in positively shaping the environment of Wales.
Dave added:
“By co-locating the NRW Analytical Services with Swansea University and expanding our services, we have a fantastic opportunity to work with Swansea University to grow and provide even more opportunities for employment to South West Wales.”
Dr Geoff Proffitt, Director of Knowledge Economy and Engagement from Swansea University College of Science said:
“Having the NRW Analytical Services facility and dedicated team running the unit on campus in Swansea is clearly a significant development, as the opportunity to interact and develop joint research programmes, which will have environmental and social impact, will become a real possibility.
“This is an exciting development for both Swansea University and Natural Resources Wales”
For more information and for further details on services available, go to www.naturalresources.wales/analyticalservices
