University of Lincoln to open new School of Maths and Chemistry

The University of Lincoln will expand its courses with a new School of Mathematics and Chemistry.

The move should bring in an extra £6.8 million investment from the Higher Education Funding Council (HEFCE), and also provide more research and development opportunities to support innovation in business.

The investment builds on the model established at the School of Engineering at the University, which opened its doors in 2011.

The new schools are supported by a number of key businesses, such as Lincolnshire Co-operative, Humber Chemical Focus Ltd, Castlet, Deloitte LLP, Duncan and Toplis and Siemens.

The two schools will support the development of the Lincoln Science and Innovation Park, a partnership between the University and Lincolnshire Co-operative based around the new School of Pharmacy.

The School of Chemistry will be housed in the new Joseph Banks Laboratories (formerly Becor House) in the Science and Innovation Park, with the first intake of students planned for September 2014.

The School of Mathematics will also launch in 2014, with the first intake in 2015.

Artist’s impression of the front of the renovated Becor House off Green Lane. Image: UoL

Professor Mary Stuart, Vice Chancellor of the University, said: “The graduates from our schools of study are well prepared for the world of work. Our progress has been built on innovation in teaching and research.

“To sustain and secure our vision, and our future, we must evolve rapidly, responding to an increasingly challenging environment.

“The new schools will create provision in these critical subject areas in the region and will reshape our whole Brayford Campus as we evolve into the university of the future.”

An overview plan of the new science park at the University of Lincoln. Image: UoL

Professor Andrew Hunter, Pro Vice Chancellor of the College of Science, said: “Mathematics is the language that knits together the sciences, underpins business and commerce, and is essential to the development of the economy.

“Chemistry is a core scientific discipline, with modern advances in materials and processing promising to transform the world we live in.

“This development will build upon our track record in working closely with industry, in research, knowledge exchange and curriculum design, and provide great opportunities for future students and for companies in Lincolnshire.”

Yvonne Hawkins, HEFCE Associate Director, added: “Our investment will help develop a long-term solution to create more graduates in maths and chemistry in a part of the country where there is an identified shortage.

“This in turn will help to stimulate the economy and provide jobs for local people.”