Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens highlights innovative R&D work in Wales
The Research and Development (R&D) sector in Wales is not only a major source of employment but also a key engine for future economic growth. From world-class university research to cutting-edge startups, the region is making strides in innovation.
During a visit to Bangor University’s Menai Science Park (M-SParc) on Anglesey, Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens met with leaders in the R&D sector to discuss its growing importance to the Welsh economy. This roundtable was part of a wider series of discussions aimed at boosting economic development across Wales.
R&D is central to developing new products, services, and technologies, often through collaborations between universities and businesses. M-SParc was highlighted as a prime example of successful innovation, bringing together academia and industry.
Stevens received a briefing from scientists at Bangor University's School of Ocean Sciences, who are leading vital research in the Irish and Celtic Seas. Their work focuses on marine conservation, aquaculture, fisheries, and renewable energy—linking policymakers, industry leaders, and local communities to drive sustainable solutions. She also toured a native oyster hatchery that supports UK-wide breeding and marine restoration efforts.
At M-SParc—the first dedicated science park in Wales—Stevens met businesses partnering with Bangor University researchers to push the boundaries in science, technology, and innovation. One standout was MDF Recovery Ltd, a company pioneering a method to reclaim fiber from waste MDF. This recovered material is being reused in products like thermal insulation, showcasing sustainable innovation in action.
The visit underlined the Welsh Government's commitment to strengthening research and development as a cornerstone of Wales’s economic future.
Secretary of State for Wales, Jo Stevens said:
“The UK Government’s Plan for Change will kickstart the economy and put more money in people’s pockets.
Wales has a thriving Research and Development sector, which is vital for our economy as well as creating innovations which have the power to improve people’s lives.
I want to build on that success and support the sector to create the well-paid, highly skilled jobs that will drive growth the length and breadth of Wales”.
Professor Paul Spencer, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research, Bangor University said:
“As a leading research-led institution, we work with industry to tackle today’s societal and economical challenges - from reducing carbon emissions to adapting to the emergence and impact of AI - and we have a track record of translating our research into impact.
The recent Queen’s Anniversary Award for our covid monitoring work offers recognition of the research excellence and has subsequently led to a partnership with a global life sciences company. Our success is built on collaboration, and we welcome the UK government’s commitment to supporting research as a driver of economic growth”.
Pryderi ap Rhisiart, Managing Director of M-SParc said:
“M-SParc plays a key role in facilitating collaboration between industry & academia. Our core purpose is to deliver economic growth built on the research excellence of Bangor University and our incredibly innovative ecosystem, made up of a range of groundbreaking businesses and pioneers across Wales who, collectively, have the ambition to deliver meaningful economic impact in the region”. Photo by Lauren Hurley / No 10 Downing Street, Wikimedia commons.