The Institute brings together many of our existing research strengths and will be an influential platform from which to conduct research of international excellence and impact.
The University’s Senate and Council formally approved the establishment of the Institute with effect from Friday (1 February 2013).
An interdisciplinary team led by Professor Graham Room of the Department of Social & Policy Sciences is now planning the public launch on 14 May 2013.
“Our aim is to ‘speak truth to power’,” commented Professor Room. “The Institute’s steering group has developed a distinctive mission which recognises and explores the interdependence of social, economic, environmental, security, and fiscal policies.
“The Institute will enable us to bridge the worlds of research, policy and professional practice with rapid but high quality responses to policy challenges on a local, national and global scale.”
Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dame Glynis Breakwell, added: “The vision, ambition and determination to turn an idea into reality shown by Graham and his colleagues have been truly inspiring.
“I am confident the Institute will further enhance the University’s reputation for the innovative quality, influence and impact of our research.”
As part of the build-up to the launch event, Professor Room is giving the opening address at the University’s annual Founder’s Day on 12 March.
The Institute’s first public lecture will be given by Professor David Miles (member of the Monetary Policy Committee at the Bank of England and Visiting Professor at Imperial College) on 21 February.