A University of Birmingham aerospace expert flew the flag in China talking to students about the benefits of British higher education. 

Visiting professor Dr Paul Withey spoke to undergraduates at Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, promoting UK post-graduate education.

A University of Birmingham alumnus and Rolls-Royce Engineering Associate Fellow in Casting Technology, Dr Withey, pictured above, delivered a keynote speech at the institution – part of Beijing Beihang University – as part of the British Council annual ‘Smart Talk’ series.

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Dr Withey spoke about his expertise in developing casting technology used in manufacturing engines for the world's newest wide-body aircraft, including the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and the Airbus A350XWB. He also outlined how his association with the University of Birmingham helped him to develop a highly successful career in the aerospace industry.

He said: “I was delighted to have the opportunity to tell Beijing undergraduates how they could benefit from post-graduate study in both Britain and Birmingham. They seemed very interested in my experience and my current visiting professor role at Birmingham.”

Dr Withey stayed at the University of Birmingham after graduation, as a researcher and lecturer in the School of Metallurgy and Materials. He has been working at Rolls-Royce as a casting and solidification specialist for 20 years and last year received to the company's highest award for technological innovation - the Sir Henry Royce Technology Innovation Award.

The event was organised by the British Council and sponsored by Rolls-Royce.

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Notes to Editors

  • The University of Birmingham is ranked amongst the world’s top 100 institutions, its work brings people from across the world to Birmingham, including researchers and teachers and more than 5,000 international students from over 150 countries.

For more information, please contact Tony Moran, International Communications Manager, University of Birmingham on +44 (0) 121 414 8254 or  +44 (0)782 783 2312