News

HI-ACT’s research community continues to grow its contribution to the UK’s hydrogen and energy research landscape, with recent developments highlighting the breadth of expertise and leadership across the programme

Professor Jianzhong Wu appointed as Pro Vice Chancellor at the University of Bath

HI-ACT’s Co-Director and Work Package 1 Lead, Professor Wu, has joined the University of Bath as the new Pro Vice Chancellor (Research). In his new role, Jianzhong will be responsible for helping develop and implement Bath’s research strategy and will serve as a member of the University’s Executive Board.

Professor Wu’s appointment follows a career spanning energy systems research, academic leadership and major UK energy research initiatives, with his research focusing on how different parts of the energy system can be brought together to support the transition to net zero. 

Professor Wu said: “I am delighted to be joining the University of Bath. Bath combines research excellence, a strong sense of community and a clear ambition for the future.”

The University of Bath is home to UK-HyRES, another EPSRC funded hydrogen research hub and partner to HI-ACT, and is part of a growing  national hydrogen and low-carbon energy ecosystem. Jianzhong’s recent move provides a valuable opportunity to build on the collaboration already taking place between HI-ACT and UK-HyRES, while creating new connections across the region’s research and innovation landscape.

Industry recognition from the Royal Academy of Engineering

Professor Wu was also recently recognised as one of the 75 leading figures in engineering and technology at the Royal Academy of Engineering’s Annual General Meeting, which celebrated the Academy’s 50th anniversary.

The Academy describes Professor Wu as a world leader in energy engineering innovation, recognising his research leadership and contribution to energy policy and practice through advisory roles across government, industry and the networks sector.

A new chapter for Dr Pourmirza at Keele University

Dr Pourmirza recently joined Keele University’s School of Computer Science and Mathematics as an Associate Professor, having previously served as Senior Research Fellow and Academic Director of Smart Systems at the University of Birmingham. 

At Keele, she will continue her work across digitalisation, cybersecurity and resilient energy infrastructure, including research into hydrogen-integrated systems and trustworthy digital technologies. 

Keele University’s innovative energy infrastructure, including its Smart Energy Network Demonstrator (SEND) and green hydrogen production facilities, will help HI-ACT advance its research and create opportunities to explore hydrogen within a wider, integrated energy system rather than in isolation.

Building a research community for the energy transition

The recent milestones achieved by Professor Wu and Dr Pourmirza offer a snapshot of the success of HI-ACT’s wider research community. Their new roles and industry recognition demonstrate how expertise developed through collaborative research can continue to contribute to the UK’s academic and energy landscape.

As HI-ACT moves forward, its growing network of researchers, partners and collaborators will remain central to developing the evidence, insight and practical approaches needed to understand the role of hydrogen in a future Net Zero energy system.