The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), in collaboration with the Royal Society of Arts (RSA), has announced the second event in its new Innovation Lecture Series for the 2025–2026 academic year.
Taking place on 14 January 2026 from 1.30pm to 4pm, the lecture will be hosted at the University’s Swansea Waterfront campus in the IQ Building, with a live-streamed option available for wider audiences.
Created and developed by Alan Mumby, Lecturer in Innovation Management at UWTSD’s Wales Institute of Science and Art (WISA) and RSA Fellow, the series aims to highlight innovative practice across key sectors and strengthen collaboration between academia, industry, and the RSA.
This winter’s lecture will focus on the evolving landscape of innovation in technology and science. The event will feature insights from leading figures whose work exemplifies the impact of research and innovation across industries.
Representing industry, Ben Altwasser, Head of Research & Technology at Safran Seats in Cwmbran, will discuss how cutting-edge engineering and research are transforming the future of aircraft seating. With a background spanning aerospace, medical engineering, robotics, and 3D printing, Altwasser has played a central role in driving technological advancement and managing multimillion-pound R&D portfolios within Safran.
Dr Andrew Killen, Senior Research & Innovation Fellow at UWTSD, will explore innovation through the lens of mechanical design, materials development, and digital manufacturing. Dr Killen leads interdisciplinary industrial research at WISA, with a particular focus on sustainable design, circular-economy materials, and Industry 4.0 technologies. His work also supports the University’s Knowledge Transfer Partnership programme, strengthening collaboration with industry partners across Wales.
The Innovation Lecture Series takes place quarterly and brings together thought leaders, students, researchers, and professionals to consider the role of innovation across different fields.
Themes for the 2025–2026 academic year include:
- Autumn 2025: Innovation in Health and Welfare
- Winter 2026: Innovation in Technology and Science
- Spring 2026: Innovation in the Manufacturing Sector
- Summer 2026: Innovation in the Creative Industries
Attendance for each lecture is free, though spaces are limited. All events are livestreamed to ensure participation from across Wales and further afield. Each session includes time for discussion and audience questions, hosted by Alan Mumby.
