Access Keys:
02/11/2017
An MRC-funded project that has tested introducing a vital warning sign device into routine maternity care in Indian and African hospitals, and an EPSRC-funded project advancing sustainable and affordable energy technology to improve the quality of life in villages in India, have both been awarded the Newton Prize worth £200,000 each.
Both projects, which are Newton funded, were presented with the prestigious annual Prize by the Minister for Universities, Science and Research Jo Johnson, and Sir Venki Ramakrishnan, Chair of the Newton Prize Committee and President of the Royal Society.
At the award event at the National Science Centre in New Delhi yesterday (Wednesday), MP Jo Johnson said: “The Newton Prize demonstrates how the UK is working with partners to address important international issues. This complements the work we are undertaking as part of our upcoming Industrial Strategy to support our world-class research and innovation sector, helping them work collaboratively to address the great challenges of our time.”
The annual Prize recognises the best research or innovation that promotes the economic development and social welfare of developing countries.
More than 150 Newton funded projects, fellowships or other awards applied for the Newton Prize from the eligible countries for this year – India, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, and each country is to hold its own prize-giving ceremony, with the first being in India.
In total across the countries there have been 25 shortlisted applications, whilst five Prizes of up to £200,000 are being awarded to each winner to be used to advance or develop existing Newton funded work.
Further information is available on the Newton Fund website. Follow their Twitter feed for regular updates about the Newton Prize: @NewtonFund.
- ends -
Contact:
RCUK Communications Team
Tel: 01793 444067 or email: communications@rcuk.ac.uk