Professor O'Reilly is one of four non-executive appointments announced by the MTC to strengthen their strategic vision.
Professor Rachel O'Reilly MBE, Professor of Chemistry and Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research at the University of Birmingham, has been appointed as a non-executive director to the Manufacturing Technology Centre Board, in a round of appointments designed to strengthen their commitment to delivering the UK's industrial strategy and drive innovation in advanced manufacturing.
The University of Birmingham is a founding member of MTC, a partnership that enhances academic research and student experience through industry-led challenges and placement opportunities. Professor O'Reilly's expertise in leading-edge chemical research and academic leadership will support the MTC's continued efforts to bring academia and industry closer together.
Professor Rachel O'Reilly said:
"As a founding member of MTC, the University of Birmingham's commitment to translating research breakthroughs into manufacturing innovation is well-established. I'm proud to join the MTC board and strengthen this partnership. The UK's global leadership in manufacturing has deep roots in the West Midlands, and the MTC builds on that legacy, uniting expertise from academia and industry to advance solutions critical to our future, including in security, aerospace and energy."
Alongside Professor O'Reilly, MTC has also appointed Natascha Engel, CEO of cross-party think tank Palace Yard, and Professor Paul Monks, University of Leicester, as non-executive directors, with existing non-executive director Professor Paul Conway, Loughborough University, appointed as Chair of the MTC Training Board.
Dr Clive Hickman OBE, Chairman of MTC, said:
"We are delighted to welcome our new non-executive directors at a pivotal time for UK manufacturing. Their expertise in policy, innovation, sustainability and skills will be invaluable as we accelerate the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and close the gap between research and real-world industrial solutions. These appointments will support our efforts to enhance UK competitiveness, encourage economic growth and help shape strategies that keep industry resilient and globally competitive."
Pro-Vice Chancellor (Research)
Professor Rachel O'Reilly is Chair in Chemistry at the School of Chemistry. She leads the O'Reilly Group whose research targets the design, synthesis and application of uniquely derived polymeric materials.
