Derrick’s background and experience are in power electronics, electrical machines and drives (PEMD) which he has applied in the teaching and learning environment, and in industry-facing projects, during previous academic appointments at the Universities of Bristol and Strathclyde.

He has collaborated with academic and industrial partners on a range of projects including those with aeronautical and automotive application, and targeting the power industry, with collaborators that include the Goodrich Corporation, QinetiQ, and Mitsubishi Electric in Japan.

Derrick says:

“The DER Challenge from UKRI is a really exciting opportunity for UK industry, and I am delighted to help contribute to this important national initiative. Power Electronics, Machines and Drives (PEMD) are fundamental to electrification and the drive to meet challenging zero-carbon targets. Through our strong industry links, and superb technical capabilities and expertise in Newcastle and the North East, and across the UK, we have the opportunity to collaborate nationally to support the scale-up of the excellent UK PEMD manufacturing base, contribute to the local and national economies, and make a real difference with worldwide environmental impact.”