A global research centre for earth and marine science and technology based at Heriot-Watt University has been opened by the deputy first minister John Swinney.
The Lyell Centre will ensure that future generations of researchers are equipped to meet science and technology challenges.
John Swinney , said: “By bringing environmental scientists and technologists together, the Lyell Centre sets itself apart as a leading centre for research and expertise with a bold vision to spearhead the new energy evolution and breed a new era of multi-disciplinary collaboration in land and marine conservation, geology and geoscience.
“It provides Scotland with a strong platform for solving complex challenges and aims to be at the frontline of delivering future energy needs. That is why I am proud this Government, through the Scottish Funding Council, has provided £3.5 million towards the Centre which will contribute not just to Scotland’s needs but those of the wider world as well.”
The purpose-built £21 million Lyell Centre enables Heriot-Watt University and BGS to combine their expertise in land and marine conservation, geology and geoscience. Joint funders of the facility include the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), the Scottish Funding Council (SFC) and Heriot-Watt University.
Richard A Williams , principal and vice chancellor of Heriot-Watt University, said, “I am confident that through our partnership with the BGS, the very existence of this fantastic new facility, and the world-leading staff we have attracted, and will recruit in the future, we will ensure that Heriot-Watt University is at forefront of the scientific advances to address this most challenging of problems.”