On November 18, 2025, the 11th North East Energy Materials and Systems Meeting (NEEMS 11) brought together over 80 industry leaders, academics, policymakers, and ReNU PhD students at St. James’ Park.
NEEMS 11 showcased the growing impact of collaboration between academia and industry, highlighting industry-led energy challenges and the evolving career journeys of ReNU alumni now working across the UK’s clean-energy landscape.
This year’s industry challenge projects spotlighted hydrogen’s emerging role in the net‑zero transition, with ReNU students presenting alongside leading industrial partners. The ORE Catapult challenge on large‑scale onshore hydrogen reception facilities was delivered by ReNU PhDs, highlighting innovative engineering and operational considerations. For the Northumbrian Water project, Harry Laing of Northumbrian Water introduced the context for hydrogen production at wastewater treatment sites, followed by a detailed presentation by ReNU PhDs demonstrating how existing infrastructure could support future green‑fuel systems.
The event also featured reflections from ReNU alumni, offering practical insights on transitioning from doctoral research into impactful industry careers. Their talks highlighted how interdisciplinary doctoral training prepares graduates to support and lead real-world energy innovation. NEEMS 11 also provided a platform for ReNU+ Cohort 6 PhD students to pitch their diverse projects, spanning energy materials, renewable integration, digital optimisation, and sustainable technologies, demonstrating the depth and breadth of emerging research talent across the region.
Engaging roundtable discussions brought together all attendees to explore themes such as strengthening cross-sector collaboration, accelerating technology deployment, and shaping the skills needed for the next generation of energy professionals.
Attendees also heard thought-provoking industry talks, including an overview of Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult’s strategic activities delivered by Graham Smith, insights from Keith Owen (Northern Gas Networks) on the evolving role of the gas network in a hydrogen-enabled future, and a forward-looking perspective on advancing zero-emission commercial vehicles presented by Neil Pattison.
NEEMS was not just an event, it is a platform and community for fostering meaningful collaborations and identifying research and practical solutions that industry leaders, policymakers and ReNU PhD students can act on.
Looking Ahead: NEEMS 12 is scheduled for November 2026. Stay tuned for updates and opportunities to join this impactful gathering.
