Expanding team is leading the way

Jan 21 2010 by Iain Laing, The Journal

THE National Subsea Research Institute (NSRI) has welcomed two new member companies, including one from Tyneside, as it builds links between industry and scientific research.

Newcastle-based Wellstream International and Kongsberg Maritime, which is headquartered in Aberdeen, brings NSRI’s industry membership to 17 in less than a year since its launch.

A partnership between Subsea UK, Newcastle University, the University of Aberdeen, Robert Gordon University and the University of Dundee, NSRI’s aim is to develop and lead a coordinated research strategy for the subsea sector, developing and maintaining the UK’s position as a centre of excellence for subsea technology.

The member companies assist with the prioritisation and development of research projects and form the NSRI’s Subsea Technology Advisory Group (STAG). This body, along with the university partners, Scottish Enterprise and the NSRI board, determines the principal areas of research for the coming year.

NSRI chairman Bill Edgar said: “The UK has found itself at the forefront of the subsea sector and along with our partners and member companies we strive to consolidate and build on this position.

“We continually face new challenges and are now, commercially, in a very different market place, so our aim is to channel research and development, skills training and education so the subsea industry can achieve its strategic aims in a cost efficient, coordinated fashion.”

Acting CEO for Wellstream Alasdair MacDonald said: “The subsea industry constantly demands product innovation as oil and gas companies seek to develop ever more remote and technically challenging reservoirs. For us to remain at the forefront of developing flexible pipe technology to meet these challenges, the support of NSRI is considered an excellent opportunity and we look forward to working with NSRI over the coming years."

NSRI plans to increase its membership to 20 throughout the year and will be announcing its latest research programme at Subsea 2010, on February 10-11, in Aberdeen.