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The Vice-Provost (Research and Enterprise), Professor Mary Ryan, oversees a diverse range of engagements, encompassing visits, collaborative research efforts, and active participation in a range of events. Professor Ryan frequently hosts senior leaders from government, academia, and industry, holding exploratory conversations, strengthening collaborative ties, and formalising Research and Enterprise partnerships. Furthermore, she plays a pivotal role in the initiatives under her purview at Imperial, focusing on vital areas such as materials science, achieving net zero emissions, and promoting sustainability.

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Spring Term (January - March)
Summer Term (April–July 2026)

Spring Term (January - March)

Hosting Visits

Professor Ryan welcomed visitors from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) to Imperial, providing an opportunity to showcase the College’s research strengths and discuss priorities across the UK research and innovation landscape.

Professor Ryan hosted Lord Browne at Imperial for discussions on energy and industrial transformation. The visit brought together researchers from across materials science, electrochemistry, process systems engineering, geological fluid dynamics and aeronautics to explore challenges and opportunities associated with the energy transition, including sustainable energy materials, carbon capture and advanced manufacturing technologies.

Events

The term featured a programme of events highlighting Imperial’s work in climate science, sustainability, innovation, health and convergence science.

Professor Ryan chaired a special lecture at the Grantham Institute Climate Research Showcase, bringing together researchers, policymakers and innovators to discuss climate solutions and the role of universities in connecting scientific research with policy and societal impact.

The Bezos Centre for Sustainable Protein Annual Conference 2026 brought together researchers, entrepreneurs, policymakers and investors from across the global food innovation community to discuss alternative proteins, sustainable food systems and the challenges associated with scaling emerging technologies. Professor Ryan chaired discussions on the investment and infrastructure requirements needed to support the sector.

Imperial also hosted a fireside discussion with Ming Tang, Chief Data and Analytics Officer and Interim Chief Digital and Information Officer at NHS England, exploring the NHS 10-Year Plan, digital transformation and the role of data-driven approaches in improving health systems.

Communications during the term also highlighted the development of the School of Convergence Science and its four areas of focus: Health and Technology; Human and Artificial Intelligence; Space, Security and Telecoms; and Sustainability. Features introduced the School’s academic leadership and showcased research exploring how different disciplines can be brought together to address complex global challenges.

The term also saw the launch of Grapht Works, London’s first dedicated advanced manufacturing facility, developed through a partnership between Imperial and WestTech London. The launch highlighted the infrastructure, investment and partnerships needed to support deep-tech companies and strengthen London’s innovation ecosystem.

Further communications showcased the White City innovation ecosystem, including the range of accelerator, scale-up and investment opportunities available to researchers and entrepreneurs. This included opportunities through Undaunted’s Greenhouse accelerator, EarthScale and the Climate Investment Challenge.

Research translation and innovation were also highlighted through SOLVE Chemistry’s £4 million seed funding round, demonstrating the application of AI and machine learning to chemical manufacturing and the potential to improve efficiency, reduce waste and energy use, and strengthen the UK’s industrial capabilities.

Alongside this activity, thought leadership communications explored Quantum Sovereignty and the strategic importance of quantum technologies, while further content highlighted Imperial research and innovation through examples including Permia Sensing’s success in the UAE FoodTech Challenge.

International Travel

Professor Ryan’s international engagement during the term focused particularly on strengthening Imperial’s relationships with partners in Japan.

During her visit, she met with representatives from the Institute of Science Tokyo, Toyota, the British Embassy Tokyo and the University of Tokyo Design Lab. Discussions explored opportunities for collaboration across research, innovation, convergence science and entrepreneurship, building on Imperial’s existing relationships in Japan.

Professor Ryan also participated in the UK-Japan 21st Century Group meeting, bringing together representatives from academia, industry and government to discuss shared priorities and future opportunities for collaboration between the UK and Japan.

Together, these engagements reinforced Imperial’s commitment to international partnership-building and to developing long-term collaborations across research, industry and government.

Summer Term (April–July 2026)

Hosting Visits

During this term, Professor Ryan supported a number of strategic engagements with industry, government and international partners.

Imperial announced a new collaboration with GE Vernova, focused on accelerating innovation in critical energy technologies including electricity distribution, grid resilience, digitalisation, carbon capture and energy systems, alongside opportunities for student fellowships and internships.

The College also expanded its partnership with HTX Singapore, bringing together expertise from across public health, physics and bioengineering to address public safety challenges through interdisciplinary research.

Imperial also continued to strengthen its international research partnerships, including through the CNRS–Imperial International Research Centre, with the launch of the Antoine Lavoisier Laboratory in Multiscale Metabolism.

Events

Professor Ryan chaired a CARA Research Beyond Borders event, bringing together university leaders, CARA Fellows and sector partners to explore how universities can support academics displaced by conflict and persecution.

She also chaired Imperial’s Sustainable Fashion Showcase panel, bringing together fashion designer Genaro Rivas and industry founders to explore the opportunities and challenges of translating sustainable materials research into real-world applications.

Professor Ryan convened a UK-European Materials Innovation Alignment roundtable at Imperial, bringing together representatives from industry, academia, government and research organisations to discuss UK engagement with emerging European advanced materials initiatives and opportunities to strengthen UK participation and influence.

The term also saw continued development of Imperial’s Industry Partnerships Strategy, setting out a stronger approach to co-development, challenge-led research and long-term collaboration between academia and industry.

Professor Ryan participated in London Climate Action Week, including the Undaunted Innovation Hub and From Data-to-Deal convening, bringing together researchers, investors, policymakers and international partners to explore how climate ambition can be translated into investment and real-world action.

Professor Ryan, as Chair of the Sir Michael Uren Prize Committee, recognised Dr Claudia Ghidini with the 2026 Sir Michael Uren Prize for her research developing adaptable prosthetic technology designed to grow with children.

International Travel

International engagement during the Summer Term continued to strengthen Imperial’s global research and innovation partnerships, with a particular focus on Singapore and wider collaboration across Europe.

The expanded partnership with HTX Singapore brought together Imperial expertise across multiple disciplines to address complex public safety challenges, while the continued development of the CNRS–Imperial International Research Centre further strengthened Imperial’s long-standing collaboration with France.

Spring Term (January - March)

Hosting visits

Professor Ryan attended the UK-Germany bilateral Memorandum of Understanding event hosted at Imperial. This event marked a significant milestone in enhancing the strong ties between the UK and Germany in the realms of science and innovation. The MOU aims to facilitate co-funding opportunities across diverse scientific disciplines, promoting bilateral cooperation, and creating avenues for joint funding calls in both countries. It was truly inspiring to witness the commitment to collaboration and knowledge exchange between two leading nations.

Additionally, Professor Ryan hosted a visit with the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) leadership. This meeting provided a valuable platform for both Imperial College London and STFC to engage in fruitful discussions, exchange ideas, align on strategic priorities, and explore potential areas for collaboration in research and innovation. The interaction between Professor Ryan, Imperial College London, and STFC leadership signifies a shared commitment to advancing scientific knowledge, driving innovation, and fostering partnerships that can lead to impactful outcomes in various scientific domains.

Furthermore, Professor Ryan hosted executive leadership colleagues from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to our South Kensington and White City campuses, showcasing our incredible research and strengthening the relationship between the non-profit and our university. The team, who were visiting from the US, were divided into groups, and taken on respective tours covering three research areas: malaria, disease surveillance and agricultural development. The Gates Foundation’s substantial contributions to our malaria research endeavours, through significant funding support, have been instrumental in driving advancements in this critical field. Furthermore, their generous donations towards disease surveillance initiatives underscore their commitment to global health security. Their expressed interest in our agricultural development projects further highlights the alignment of goals between the foundation and our institution.

Events

This term saw the official naming ceremony of the Abdus Salam Library, paying tribute to the esteemed Nobel laureate and Imperial Professor. Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formalized for a strategic partnership with the International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP), emphasizing our commitment to scientific endeavours and global cooperation.

In February, Professor Mary Ryan joined the UK and EU science communities for the UK Government and European Commission’s official launch event to celebrate the UK’s association to Horizon Europe. The event was opened by the UK Secretary of State for Science, Research and Innovation Michelle Donelan MP and European Commissioner for Research, Culture, Education and Youth Iliana Ivanova and celebrated UK participation in European funding programmes with key members of the UK and EU research communities.

Additionally, Professor Ryan attended the LSE German Symposium where panel where members discussed critical topics such as energy security, net zero emissions, and technological advancements.

Professor Ryan, as part of the “In Conversation: Science and Policymaking” series organized by the Imperial Policy Forum, hosted Dr. Hayaatun Sillem CBE and Greg Clarke MP. These discussions underscored the importance of evidence-based decision-making, collaboration between academia and policymakers, and the role of research in informing effective policies for societal advancement.

The launch “Science for Humanity” Imperial’s new strategy represents a significant milestone towards maximising the college potential as a global force for good through a series of bold new initiatives. Professor Ryan’s address at the Science Museum highlighted the ambitious nature of this strategy, which is poised to revolutionize the landscape of scientific research and innovation. The launch of four cross-cutting Schools of Convergence Science that build on Imperial’s disciplinary strengths and interdisciplinary culture to create research communities in key areas including sustainability, human and artificial intelligence, health, and security sciences. These Schools will create interdisciplinary science at unprecedented scale with an unflinching focus on addressing global grand challenges.

International Travel

Imperial University achieved a significant milestone by opening its first overseas research and innovation centre in Singapore, this move is a testament to Imperial’s commitment to expanding its global reach and fostering international collaboration in education and research.

The new centre in Singapore will facilitate the exchange of ideas and knowledge between #OurImperial scientists and their partners in Singapore, which includes universities, industry, government, and third-sector organizations.

Professor Ryan and President Brady also travelled to Malaysia to celebrate Imperial’s collaborations across the country.  

Summer Term (April - June)

Hosting Visits

During this term, Imperial welcomed several high-profile visitors whose engagements have further strengthened our international and strategic partnerships.

Professor Ryan hosted Denmark’s Minister for Higher Education and Science, Christina Egelund, and Professor David Dreyer Lassen, Rector of the University of Copenhagen, at White City. The visit provided an opportunity to showcase Imperial’s thriving innovation ecosystem, particularly in areas such as quantum technologies, MedTech, and biosustainability. Discussions highlighted existing collaborations, including over 3,000 co-authored publications and more than 40 Horizon Europe projects with Danish partners, and underlined the shared commitment to building a resilient European research landscape.

The College also hosted the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, and the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Ed Miliband, at the Centre for Cryo Microscopy of Materials. Their visit coincided with the UK Government’s announcement of the Sizewell C deal. It was an opportunity to demonstrate Imperial’s role in delivering the materials science and innovation required for the UK’s clean energy transition and to reinforce how academic–government partnerships can accelerate solutions to national challenges.

Imperial was honoured to welcome President Emmanuel Macron for the official launch of the Ayrton-Bleriot Engineering Lab (ABEL). This collaboration between Imperial and CNRS will focus on AI-driven engineering, sustainable materials, and clean industrial processes. The launch highlighted the significance of Franco–British scientific partnerships in addressing pressing global challenges, while also demonstrating Imperial’s capacity to lead international collaborations at the highest level.

Events

The launch of the Schools of Convergence Science marked a significant institutional milestone. As part of Imperial’s Science for Humanity strategy, the Schools are designed to reframe how the College organises knowledge to address complex societal challenges across health, sustainability, AI, and space and security. By reducing barriers to collaboration and enabling mission-led research at scale, the Schools will support the translation of discovery into real-world solutions and ensure that Imperial remains at the forefront of global research and innovation.

Professor Ryan chaired an Imperial Policy Forum panel on the role of battery innovation and long-duration energy storage in achieving the UK’s Clean Power 2030 ambitions. The event brought together leading experts from academia, industry, and government, including colleagues from the Faraday Institution. Discussions underscored the importance of aligning technical innovation with robust policy frameworks and investment to secure the UK’s leadership in clean energy.

At the Armourers & Brasiers’ Cambridge Forum, Professor Ryan delivered the annual Kelly Lecture, reflecting on three decades of materials science and the future challenges in designing resilient and sustainable materials. The lecture emphasised the role of fundamental discovery in supporting industrial translation and the importance of nurturing early career researchers in this space.

The term also included moments of celebration across the College community. Graduation ceremonies at the Royal Albert Hall honoured the achievements of Imperial’s students, while the Royal Academy of Engineering Awards Dinner saw Professor Nilay Shah awarded the President’s Medal in recognition of his exceptional contributions to engineering, sustainability, and policy.

International Travel

April to June saw major progress in Imperial’s international engagement strategy.

In Japan, Professor Ryan deepened ties with industry and academic partners including the Toyota Konpon Research Institute, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Hitachi, alongside engagements at the University of Tokyo and the Institute of Science Tokyo. A highlight of the visit was the active participation of early career researchers in joint workshops, where their perspectives enriched discussions on the future of sustainable technologies. This visit reinforced Imperial’s commitment to long-term UK–Japan collaboration in research and innovation.

In San Francisco, the opening of Imperial Global USA was marked by a week of activity focused on engineering biology and AI. Events included co-chairing the UK SynBioBeta Reception, which convened researchers, innovators, and policymakers from across the UK and US ecosystems. The visit also celebrated the growth of Imperial-linked spinouts, such as Solena Materials, whose $6.7 million seed round highlighted the potential of UK research to attract global investment.

In Munich, Imperial and the Technical University of Munich launched the Centre for Health Resilience in a Changing Planet, addressing the health impacts of environmental change such as air pollution. The visit also celebrated the 2024 cohort of the Joint Academy of Doctoral Studies, further strengthening PhD-level collaboration between the two institutions.

Finally, in Paris, the annual meeting of the CNRS–Imperial International Research Centre marked the launch of four new joint PhD projects, expanding the shared cohort to 50 students. The partnership continues to grow as a unique model of long-term Franco–British collaboration, spanning areas from quantum engineering to sustainability and next-generation health technologies.

Autumn Term (September - December)

Autumn Term (September – December)

Hosting Visits

Following the signing of the first UK–US Tech Prosperity Deal, Imperial hosted a panel discussion between senior US and UK policymakers on the potential of the transatlantic partnership across critical technology sectors including AI, quantum computing and nuclear energy. Professor Ryan opened the event, "The Future of UK–U.S. Science and Technology Collaboration," which brought together Rt Hon Liz Kendall MP, Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, Rt Hon Dr Peter Kyle MP, Secretary of State for Business and Trade, and Michael Kratsios, Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. The panel was moderated by Amanda Wolthuizen, Imperial's Vice-President (Strategic Engagement and Communications), and discussion focused on the deal's potential in fields such as AI for healthcare and cleaner energy.

Events

The term opened with the launch of Leap, a shared laboratory space for early-stage science and technology start-ups. Led by Imperial Incubator in partnership with ARC West London, Leap was launched by Howard Dawber, Deputy Mayor of London for Business and Growth, at ARC West London's Hammersmith Campus, and addresses London's shortage of early-stage lab space by giving growing businesses affordable access to facilities, equipment and support. Professor Ryan noted that start-ups are a vital part of the UK's innovation engine but too often constrained by access to space and specialist support, and that shared labs such as Leap create the conditions for rigorous science to translate faster.

In November, Imperial announced Research Professional Futures, a £4.5 million initiative to strengthen the careers of research professionals, working in partnership with Teesside University as lead provider alongside Durham University and the University of Warwick, with evaluation led by the University of Oxford. Professor Ryan observed that sustaining world-leading research depends on highly skilled professional staff whose work shapes research quality and impact, and that the project would provide an evidence base and practical tools to strengthen careers that have lacked visibility and clear progression pathways.

Professor Ryan's work beyond Imperial was also recognised this term. She was appointed a Non-Executive Director of Morgan Advanced Materials plc, the global manufacturer of high-performance carbon and ceramic components, joining the Board on 1 November 2025. The appointment reflects the value of Imperial's industry partnerships and the role of scientific expertise in board-level decisions on the materials and technologies that will shape future economies.

The term closed with a significant new partnership in AI. In December, Thomson Reuters and Imperial announced a five-year collaboration to create a joint Frontier AI Research Lab, the first strategic partnership with Imperial's School of Convergence Science, pursuing foundational research in AI safety and reliability alongside the technology's broader societal and economic impact. Professor Ryan said the collaboration gives Imperial's researchers the space and support to explore fundamental questions about how AI can and should work for society, and that progress in the area depends on rigorous science, open inquiry and strong partnerships.

International Travel

In December, Professor Ryan led an Imperial delegation to the Ookayama Campus of the Institute of Science Tokyo, building on a series of earlier meetings held in Japan, the UK and online. Discussions centred on student and early-career researcher exchanges, startup incubation, and research matching in convergence science. Science Tokyo's Visionary Initiatives, launched in the 2025 academic year around the themes of "Better Life," "Better Society" and "Better Planet," align closely with Imperial's Schools of Convergence Science, particularly in how interdisciplinary research and early-career support come together.

Spring Term (January - March)

Hosting visits

Events

Additionally, Professor Ryan attended the LSE German Symposium where panel where members discussed critical topics such as energy security, net zero emissions, and technological advancements.

International Travel

Professor Ryan and President Brady also travelled to Malaysia to celebrate Imperial’s collaborations across the country.  

Summer Term (April - July)

Hosting visits

Professor Ryan participated in discussions with renowned figures in the scientific community, notably Anne Glover, who delivered the Athena Lecture on evidence-based decision-making, and Renee Wegrzyn, who shared her experiences in setting up ARPA-H. These engagements fostered valuable exchange of insights, particularly in evidence-based approaches to decision-making and the expansion of ambitious scientific programs.

Events

Professor Ryan’s term was marked by several notable events, including the prestigious graduation ceremony at Royal Albert Hall, celebrating the achievements of Imperial College students. Special recognition was given to the recipients of the Outstanding Student Achievement Award, President’s Medal, Imperial College Medal, and Honorary Degrees for their significant contributions to the community.

Further, the Venture Catalyst Challenge 2024 Grand Final highlighted entrepreneurship, with CyanoSkin’s innovative ‘living paint’ technology earning acclaim for its potential in transforming buildings into carbon dioxide-absorbing structures. The victory of SEALEO in the 10th WE Innovate Final and Polaron’s recognition in the Manchester Prize underscored Imperial’s ongoing support for entrepreneurial ventures, particularly in the fields of sustainable technologies and AI innovation.

The collaboration with the Royal Academy of Engineering on the launch of the Science and Technology Venture Capital Fellowship represented a strategic initiative to enhance investor capabilities in life sciences and deep tech ventures, thereby bridging gaps in the investment landscape through tailored mentorship and instruction.

Professor Ryan also acknowledged the success of interdisciplinary collaborations, such as the No10 Evidence House Generative AI Hackathon, which showcased innovative AI applications for social good. Additionally, the launch of the Bezos Centre for Sustainable Protein marked a major milestone in addressing global sustainability challenges in food production, with the centre focused on pioneering research to revolutionize food systems and reduce environmental impact.

International partnerships, including those with Rio Tinto, CNRS, Intel, and Lenovo, were a central theme of the term, with these collaborations playing a pivotal role in addressing pressing global challenges. Imperial’s academic excellence was also recognized with prestigious honours from The Academy of Medical Sciences, The Royal Society, and The Royal Society of Chemistry, acknowledging the exceptional contributions of Imperial’s researchers. The unveiling of the Purple Plaque at the Royal School of Mines in honour of Dr. Bakul Gupta further celebrated the institution’s commitment to biotechnology and research inclusivity.

International Travel

Professor Ryan's international engagements were a notable highlight, particularly the visit to Denmark, where key meetings with institutions such as the University of Copenhagen, DTU Biosustain, and the BioInnovation Institute strengthened our commitment to global partnerships in convergence science, sustainable technologies, and life sciences. These discussions were instrumental in advancing collaborative efforts focused on addressing global challenges. The trip also provided an opportunity to explore joint research initiatives, student exchanges, and faculty collaborations, laying the foundation for future impactful partnerships.

Autumn Term (September - December)

Hosting visits

Professor Ryan hosted Dr. Prabhakar Raghavan, Google’s Chief Technologist, for a discussion on the future of AI, focusing on its ethical implications and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing AI technologies. This event underscored Imperial’s role in shaping the future of AI.

Events

The Imperial College Advanced Hackspace’s Hackstarter programme also received recognition this term, receiving a Highly Commended award at the 2024 PraxisAuril Knowledge Exchange Awards for its role in empowering student entrepreneurs to take their ideas from concept to realization.

The launch of four new Schools of Convergence Science also marked an important milestone. These schools will bring together interdisciplinary researchers to address some of the world’s most urgent challenges, such as climate change, health and technology, and security. Under the leadership of newly appointed Co-Directors, these schools will drive transformative research that aligns with Imperial’s vision for a sustainable and equitable future.

Professor Ryan attended the launch of the Early Career Researchers Institute (ECRI), which aims to foster a thriving research community by providing tailored support to early career researchers. The institute aligns with Imperial’s Talent strategy, offering an environment conducive to collaboration and innovation.

International Travel

Professor Ryan engaged in several key international collaborations. One notable highlight was her presentation of a plenary lecture at the 75th Annual Meeting of the International Society of Electrochemistry (ISE) in Montreal. The conference provided an excellent opportunity to connect with researchers and explore the latest advances in electrochemistry, with insights from Imperial colleagues.

In New York, during Climate Week, Professor Ryan hosted the Clean Tech Startup Showcase, a gathering that brought together innovators working on accelerating clean tech solutions. A major highlight was seeing Notpla, a startup focused on replacing single-use plastics with seaweed-based solutions, secure £20 million in Series A+ funding.

Professor Ryan also participated in the launch of Imperial's first permanent hub in the US, based in San Francisco. This new hub will deepen Imperial’s ties to Silicon Valley and its innovation ecosystem. The launch event, which included the inaugural Silicon Valley Symposium, was a key milestone in strengthening transatlantic partnerships. During her visit, Professor Ryan also toured Livermore National Lab and UC Berkeley, reinforcing the importance of collaborative research in advancing science.

Finally, in Washington DC, Professor Ryan attended the inaugural THE Interdisciplinary Science Forum and revisited Johns Hopkins University, marking a personal milestone 30 years after her first research visit there. She also expressed gratitude to Jonah Erlebacher and Denis Wirtz for their exceptional hospitality during the visit.

Spring Term (January - March)

Hosting visits: Professor Ryan and President Brady hosted UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Bill Gates for the launch of the Cleantech for UK coalition at the South Kensington campus. Imperial’s Undaunted initiative, a collaboration between the College and the Royal Institution, is a founding signatory of the coalition. During the visit, the Prime Minister and Bill Gates also attended a showcase of three leading UK cleantech scale-ups: Econic, H2GO Power and Crop Intellect. Additionally, Professor Ryan welcomed the Singaporean High Commissioner, H.E. Lim Thuan Kuan, at South Kensington campus, discussing some of Imperial’s work in sustainability and zero pollution, most notably the Transition to Zero Pollution initiative. Furthermore, Professor Ryan hosted Chris Skidmore MP at South Kensington campus to discuss the Vallance Review, green industries and how to support clean technology innovation in the UK.

Events: Professor Ryan, as part of the In Conversation series organized by the Imperial Policy Forum, hosted Professor Dame Angela McLean, then the Chief Scientific Advisor (CSA) at the Ministry of Defence (MOD). Their discussion encompassed the CSA’s role within the MOD, Professor McLean’s professional trajectory, and the significance of effective science communication. Additionally, Professor Ryan chaired a panel during the launch event of the Hitachi-Imperial Centre for Decarbonisation and Natural Climate Solutions. The panel featured speakers such as Alistair Dormer, Hitachi Europe Chairman, Prof Paul Monks, Chief Scientific Adviser at BEIS, Caroline Haas, Managing Director and Head of Climate and ESG Markets at NatWest, Jeremy Oppenheim, Founder and Senior Partner at Systemiq, and Andres Roberts, Founder of the Bio-Leadership Project and Founder/Programme Director for the Bio-Leadership Fellowship.

Furthermore, Professor Ryan co-signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Imperial and the Royal Air Force (RAF) alongside Air Commodore Jez Holmes. This MoU facilitates collaboration on security-related research themes, drawing on key initiatives from across Imperial, such as I-X and the Institute for Security Science and Technology. Another engagement involved Professor Ryan participating in a panel led by Philip Dunne MP to celebrate the Environmental Audit Committee’s 25th anniversary at the South Kensington Campus. This event, co-led by the Imperial Policy Forum and the Grantham Institute for Climate Change and the Environment, included Dr Hannah White, Director of the Institute for Government, Mary Creagh, Chair of the Environmental Audit Committee from 2016 to 2019, and David Shukman, former Science Editor of BBC News.

In addition, Professor Ryan delivered the opening keynote address at the inaugural Jawdrop Summit at Imperial’s White City campus, bringing together academics, startups, scaleups, enterprise, and investors to discuss the future of the UK’s life sciences sector. He also attended the launch of Imperial’s new Henry Royce Institute facility at the White City campus, focusing on advanced materials research for quantum technologies, materials for the energy transition, healthcare, and information technologies. Furthermore, Professor Ryan attended the opening of DIANA’s European Regional Office at the White City campus, led by Professor Deeph Chana. The event included Mircea Geoana, NATO Deputy Secretary General, and Alex Chalk, UK MoD Procurement Minister. DIANA, a NATO initiative co-located in London and Tallinn, was established to enhance security and technology collaboration. Additionally, Professor Ryan hosted Mircea Geoana, NATO Deputy Secretary General, at the South Kensington campus for the Institute for Security Science and Technology’s annual Vincent Briscoe lecture. This event also featured Ms. Barbara McQuiston, DIANA Board of Directors Chair, and Dr. Bryan Wells, NATO Chief Scientist.

International Travel: Professor Ryan and President Brady attended a series of events in Tokyo, strengthening Imperial ties with Japanese partners. Visits included a Net Zero and Healthy Future symposium with the Tokyo Institute of Technology and the Tokyo Medical and Dental University, meeting with Hitachi and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries officials, discussing research partnerships, and chairing a meeting with the Japan Bioindustry Association. Professor Ryan also attended an alumni event at the International House of Japan in Tokyo.

Summer Term (April - July)

Hosting visits: Professor Ryan hosted Lord Sainsbury at the South Kensington campus for the launch of a series of reports outlining Imperial experts’ recommendations on improving the UK’s competitiveness in biopharma, medtech, and telecomms. Professor Ryan also chaired a panel discussing technological solutions and policy advice together with Richard Philips (Director of Strategy at the Association of British Healthtech Industries), Dr Mike Short (Chief Architect at Satellite Applications Catapult), and Dr Emily Pegg (Associate Vice-President (Medical) at Eli Lilly).

Events: During the Summer term, Professor Ryan participated in a multitude of significant events. She attended the launch of the Centre for Cryo Microscopy of Materials, hosted within the Department of Materials, which is globally unique and supported by ESPRC. This cutting-edge facility is dedicated to researching energy materials for catalytic systems and batteries, as well as materials for soft and hard matter interfaces and biological systems. It serves as a collaborative hub to address the UK's goal of achieving a sustainable zero-carbon future. Additionally, Professor Ryan chaired a panel organized by Octopus Ventures and the Department for Business and Trade’s Office for Investment, exploring collaborative approaches to help deep tech companies grow.

Professor Ryan, furthermore, was in conversation with OpenAI’s co-founder Wojciech Zaremba and Product Lead Arka Dhar during the keynote address of the Future of Generative AI symposium co-hosted by Imperial College London and London School of Economics’s Data Science Institutes. Emphasizing the importance of critically engaging with AI developments and ensuring ethical use, she highlighted the need for responsible AI practices. Professor Ryan also hosted the Q&A session of the annual Athena lecture, featuring Grazia Vittadini, Chief Technology Officer of Rolls-Royce.

Furthermore, Professor Ryan engaged in a dialogue with Professor Charlotte Watts, the former Chief Scientific Advisor (CSA) at the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), as part of the ‘In Conversation’ series organized by the Imperial Policy Forum. Their discussion covered the CSA’s role within the FCDO, Professor Watts’s experience in both academic and government settings, and how the FCDO leverages academic evidence. Professor Ryan furthermore delivered a talk as part of the Great Exhibition Road Festival programme, exploring the Seven Material Wonders of the Ancient World, and co-hosted concrete block-building workshops. She also attended the Women in Engineering Network (WiN) event at the South Kensington campus, which she founded and chaired during her tenure as Vice-Dean for Research in the Faculty of Engineering.

Additionally, Professor Ryan participated in the TenU event discussing the recently launched USIT Guide in an international context, emphasizing the importance of aligning Imperial’s vision with like-minded universities for mutual support. She gave the opening keynote address at the second Jawdrop Summit on climatetech, held at Imperial’s White City campus, and chaired a panel on White City’s role as a climate technology innovation ecosystem for the UK. Professor Ryan also joined the launch of the Centre for Quantum Engineering, Science and Technology (QuEST), co-led by Professor Peter Haynes and Professor Myungshik Kim, aligning with the UK Government’s National Quantum Strategy.

Lastly, Professor Ryan organized the first-ever joint event of Imperial’s Global Challenge Institutes in partnership with Stemettes. The event involved translating complex science and technology problems into workshops, panels, and exhibition stands for an audience of 200 girls, young women, and non-binary individuals aged 5-25, fostering engagement and collaboration with Stemettes and industry partners.

International travel: Professor Ryan and President Brady attended the CNRS-Imperial College London opening plenary in Paris, the first annual workshop co-organised by the two institutions. Imperial and CNRS scientists discussed their work on a broad range of research areas, such as artificial intelligence, climate change, material sciences, medicine, and chemistry.

Furthermore, Professor Ryan signed a research partnership agreement with Professor Krystyn Van Vliet, Vice President for Research and Innovation at Cornell University, through which world-leading AI centres in London and New York will cooperate on using AI to accelerate scientific discovery and future technologies. Professor Ryan also met with Greg Morrisett, Dean and Vice Provost at Cornell Tech, hosted by Emma Wade at the British Consul General's Residence in New York. While in New York, Professor Ryan and President Brady met with Grace Wood, First Secretary & Head of Sustainable Development at UK Mission to the UN, Achim Steiner, UNDP Administrator, and Amandeep Singh Gill, UN Secretary-General's Envoy on Technology to discuss how science and technology can contribute to major global issues such as health, climate and food security. Imperial has consultative status at the UN Economic and Social Council and leads on a number of development partnerships, primarily through its Global Development Hub.

Lastly, Professor Ryan attended the announcement of a key strategic partnership with the University of Tokyo, led by the UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak ahead of the G7 summit. The collaboration builds on Imperial and Hitachi’s respective bilateral initiatives with University of Tokyo, building on major industry-research centres in climate repair and energy systems. The Presidents of Imperial and the University of Tokyo signed the agreement, witnessed by the Executive Chairman and the Chief Technology Officer of Hitachi Ltd.

Autumn Term (September - December)

Hosting visits: During the Autumn term, Professor Ryan hosted distinguished groups and individuals at Imperial College London, including visits from the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory delegation, representatives from the University of Arizona and the UK Science and Innovation Network, Professor Dame Jessica Corner (Executive Chair for Research England), the Qatar Foundation, Rolls-Royce, Dr Itaru Nishizawa (CTO of Hitachi), and Thomas F. Hofmann (President of the Technical University of Munich). These engagements involved tours and discussions on collaborative opportunities, research initiatives such as decarbonization and AI, industry partnerships, and the renewal of flagship partnerships. The overarching goal of these visits was to foster innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration for the advancement of cutting-edge technologies and scientific discoveries.

Events: Professor Ryan was actively involved in a diverse set of events, including attending the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding between Imperial College London and the Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International at the Silwood Park campus. This new research base will focus on collaborative efforts in teaching and research related to fragile ecosystems, sustainable agriculture, environmental concerns, and biodiversity management impacted by climate change. Additionally, Professor Ryan spoke at the Labour Party Conference on the role of science and innovation in driving economic growth, emphasizing the importance of connecting innovation ecosystems, securing stable funding, and integrating scientific research into policymaking. She also participated in Commemoration Day, congratulating graduating students and staff awardees. Other highlights include visiting the UKAEA FTF in York, meeting with Petronas to discuss the White City Campus, delivering a talk on ‘The Academic Leadership Journey’ during the New Academic Leadership Development Programme at South Kensington, attending the Imperial Black Entrepreneurship dinner, and participating in the Google-Imperial Research Showcase where topics such as sustainability, cybersecurity, and responsible AI.

International travel: Professor Ryan had the honour of contributing to significant initiatives in both Japan and San Francisco last term. In Japan, she met with Professor Yoichiro Matsumoto and Dr. Motoko Kotani, Science and Technology Advisors to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, outlining Imperial's research strategy and exploring potential academic collaborations and synergies between the two countries. Our discussions prioritized opportunities for aspiring PhD students and early career researchers. Professor Ryan also visited Hitachi at Origin Park and their R&D site in Ibaraki, delving into their environmental research and discussing decarbonization technologies. Additionally, she attended Imperial’s networking event at the British Embassy in Tokyo, focusing on Sustainable Decarbonization for Island Nations (where discussions centered around achieving flexible, secure, and zero-pollution energy solutions), and participated in workshops at the University of Tokyo.

Simultaneously, in San Francisco, Professor Ryan attended the WEF AI Summit and visited Insistro, where she had the privilege of meeting with Daphne Koller, the CEO and Founder. These engagements provided valuable insights into the fields of artificial intelligence and academic collaboration. Additionally, she held meetings with representatives from the British Consulate-General and Stanford University, contributing to a well-rounded exploration of opportunities and connections on both sides of the globe.

Horizon Europe: Professor Ryan had participated in two significant events at both the Royal Society and Imperial that celebrated our association with Horizon Europe. The Foundation for Science and Technology event at the Royal Society highlighted the UK's active involvement in Horizon Europe and Copernicus programs, emphasizing strategies for optimizing collaboration. Additionally, delivering concluding remarks at Imperial's celebratory gathering brought together international science communities, symbolizing the initiation of the UK's partnership with Horizon Europe. The event celebrated our affiliation, showcasing collaborative projects and highlighting the impressive scientific progress fostered by EU programs at Imperial. An exhibition featured diverse EU-funded projects across various disciplines, demonstrating our commitment to impactful research and innovation.

Lord Vallance, Marc Lemaître and Isabell Poppelbaum with Professor Hugh Brady and Amanda Wolthuizen at the Great Exhibition Road Festival.

Professor Ryan with WE Innovate Grand Final Winners Snitch (June 2026)

Professor Mary Ryan (Vice-Provost, Research & Enterprise) joined Dr Andy Jarvis, Dr Rodrigo Ledesma-Amaro, and Sir Andrew Steer at the launch of the Bezos Centre for Sustainable Protein, backed by a $30 million Bezos Earth Fund grant (June 2024)

Professor Mary Ryan joined the judging panel at the No.10 Innovation Fellowship Hackathon at Imperial, where civil servant teams developed and pitched AI-driven solutions to real-world challenges (December 2024)

Professor Ryan with Tim Campbell MBE and Dr Wayne Mitchell, Associate Provost for EDI at the Black Entrepreneurship event (July 2023)

Proffesor Ryan delivering the opening keynote address at the second Jawdrop Summit on climatetech

Profesor Ryan delivering the opening keynote address at the second Jawdrop Summit on climatetech (July 2023)

Professor Ryan at the Faculty of Engineering's Women in Engineering Network event (June 2023)

Professor Mary Ryan (Vice-Provost, Research & Enterprise) with Bethan Daniels, winner of the Sir Michael Uren Prize, joined by Professor Neil Ferguson and Professor Matthew Fisher (2024)

Professor Ryan with Imperial academics at the 2023 May graduation ceremony (May 2023)

Professor Mary Ryan with Shiro Yamaoka at the launch of the Destination Net Zero briefing paper (May 2025)

Professor Alessandra Russo, Professor Felix Steffek and Dr Jonathan Richard Schwarz at the launch of the Frontier AI Research Lab. (January 2026)

Professor Ryan chairing a panel on the UK deep tech ecosystem co-organised by the Office for Investment Department for Business and Trade and Octopus Ventures (May 2023)

Professor Ryan at the launch of the Centre for Cryo Microscopy of Materials (April 2023)

Professor Ryan with President Brady, Cornell officials and the New York British Consul General signing a partnership on AI collaboration (April 2023)

Professor Mary Ryan, Vice-Provost (Research and Enterprise), with NVIDIA representatives and Imperial colleagues at a roundtable discussion held during London Tech Week. (June 2026)

Professor Ryan picking up her CBE in Windsor (March 2023)

Professor Ryan delivering the opening keynote address at the inaugural Jawdrop Summit for life sciences (February 2023)

Professor Ryan co-signing the RAF-Imperial College London MoU with Air Commodore Jez Holmes (January 2023)

Professor Ryan showcasing Imperial's medical robotics research with H.E. Lim Thuan Kuan, Singapore High Commissioner (January 2023)

Science & Policymaking Series

Science and research is a crucial component in public policymaking. The solutions to the global societal challenges we all face – from the impacts of climate change and decarbonising large parts of our society to realising the benefits of AI – all require extensive research and innovative. Yet there are sometimes challenges in pulling through academic expertise into the hands of decision-makers in governments and parliaments. Only through open dialogue and collaboration between academia and policymakers can we make sure that the latest evidence supports decisions impacting us all.

The Imperial Policy Forum runs a Science and Policymaking speaker series, which aims to do just that – facilitate open conversations with a range of policymakers and officials about how research is used to inform public policymaking, and their own reflections on how the science-policy interface operates. Hosted by Professor Mary Ryan, Vice-Provost for Research and Enterprise, the series is open to all Imperial staff, students and alumni to hear first hand the challenges and opportunities for scientists working in government and how their research can be used to evidence public policymaking across a wide range of topics.

Previous guests include:

Professor Charlotte Watts, Chief Scientific Adviser at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
Professor Angela McLean, Chief Scientific Adviser at Ministry of Defence (MoD)
Dr Mike Short, Chief Scientific Adviser at Department for International Trade (DIT)