University of Edinburgh - Driving advances in data science

In 2018, the University of Edinburgh opened a new innovation hub for data science and Artificial Intelligence that enables multidisciplinary academic researchers, student talent and private and public sector partners to work shoulder-to-shoulder in an open facility.

The Bayes Centre for Data Science was established with capital funding from UK and Scottish Governments and £2.7m revenue support from Scottish Enterprise. It is home to a community of over four hundred internationally recognised scientists, outstanding PhD students, leading industry experts and innovation support professionals. Research and innovation activities cover a range of interdisciplinary topics and industrial sectors, with R&D teams working together to advance data technology and generate solutions to real-world economic and social challenges.

Entrepreneurs and industry partners are supported by a dedicated innovation team, with practical advice and support available on the expertise available within the Centre, funding calls and competitions, and how businesses can de-risk and increase return on investment for potential partners. By 2020 the Centre had attracted 52 corporate R&D teams with partners ranging from large multinationals to SMEs. The Centre supported the establishment of 15 high-growth ventures in its first two years of operation, attracting £91m in external investment and creating 489 jobs. Existing partners include sector-leading businesses such as the Royal Bank of Scotland and SAS Software.

Working in partnership with Scottish Enterprise, the Bayes Centre is part of the Data-Driven Innovation (DDI) Programme within the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal.  It collaborates closely with other DDI hubs, the Edinburgh Futures Institute, the Usher Institute, and the National Robotarium.

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