Research and innovation

Harnessing the power of collaboration and catalysing opportunities for knowledge exchange, we will advance research across digital, business and social innovation.

Translating ideas into reality

Bristol is host to world-leading research and innovation, both within the University and in organisations across the city. At TQEC, we will develop transformational research focusing on digital technologies. With new business models and industry connections translating research into reality, we can help to address society’s great challenges.

Our academic community will be supported to develop their research into tangible outcomes that create meaningful change. The focus will be on developing research alongside skills and innovation services to boost the translation of research to market.

Bristol Innovations, the University’s catalyst for innovation, will provide start-ups, scale-ups and corporations with a gateway to in-depth collaboration with expert researchers from all faculties of the University of Bristol. The Bristol Innovations Zone (BIZ), will deliver a transformative, interdisciplinary approach to innovation in critical ‘deep tech’ (such as quantum, AI, advanced connectivity, cyber, semiconductors, life sciences and advanced materials).

Building on the unique strengths of our Quantum Technologies Innovation Centre, Engine Shed and SETsquared Bristol, BIZ will offer flexible co-working and event spaces, specialist labs, state-of-the-art equipment, skills training, support services and events.  

Interdisciplinary research

TQEC will bring together interdisciplinary teams to pursue pioneering research that impacts our everyday lives. The strength of research will be drawn from the diverse experiences and expertise of social innovators, creative entrepreneurs and digital engineers.

A range of digital engineering research groups will be based at the new campus, alongside academics from the Business School who actively tackle global issues impacting the economy and society.

The TQ Research Hub sits across the water from the main building on Avon Street. Now fully operational, it is already home to:

  • Bristol Digital Futures Institute (BDFI): A £100m initiative, including £29m from Research England's UK Research Partnership Investment Fund (UKRPIF), aimed at advancing digital innovation for sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous futures. 
  • MyWorld: A global centre for creative technology innovation, uniting world-leading partners from academia and industry to drive growth and societal change.

Driving innovation in the region

The new campus sits at the heart of an ambitious and innovative city regeneration. The area is home to an array of financial and legal services and tech businesses alongside much of the University's existing innovative facilities.

Engine Shed is the University’s pioneering resident in Temple Quarter, having been a home for innovation since 2013. SETsquared Bristol is resident at Engine Shed and was recently ranked in the top 3 startup hubs in Europe.

Science Creates, a network of incubators offering lab, office and event space for startups, has been resident in the area since 2017. In partnership with Science Creates, we are developing OMX - a 3rd incubator nearby.