The University’s Centre for Sustainable Chemical Technologies recently hosted an event to develop international multidisciplinary research projects in the area of renewable resources.
Sixteen scientists and engineers from the Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Brazil, Ohio State University (OSU), USA, Stellenbosch University, South Africa and the University of Bath attended the event earlier this month.
The event was led by professional facilitators Knowinnovation who used an intensive residential workshop technique known as the ‘sandpit’.
The technique involved devoting three full days to the task, as well as working, eating and playing together. This led to the team quickly breaking down barriers, developing strong relationships and exploring exciting projects involving partners from all four institutions.
Professor Igor Polikarpov from the São Carlos Institute for Physics, USP said: “I am really excited about the projects conceived during this event.
“The ‘sandpit’ way of catalyzing thinking is a perfect framework for innovative proposals, particularly in a multinational environment.”
Dr Rueben Pfukwa from the Department of Chemistry & Polymer Sciences at Stellenbosch University added: “Many areas of collaboration were identified and I look forward to participating in collaborative research efforts with my ‘sandpit’ partners.”
Professor Jon Parquette from the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at OSU said: “This facilitated format fostered the collaborative creation of three new projects and produced appropriate action plans to pursue the envisioned solutions.
“I personally found this method of creating solutions to important problems uniquely effective.”
The team now plans to hold virtual meetings to further develop the projects identified and to put in place sub-projects that can start immediately, such as joint supervision of PhDs and student exchanges.
A second ‘sandpit’ event is planned within the year.
The international sandpit participants