Prize for Edinburgh scientist
4 May 2001
Jim Philp from Napier University has picked up a cool £2,500 runner-up prize for his business idea in a prestigious competition run by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC).
A new, low-cost method of detecting toxic pollutants could be the answer to many of today's problems facing the water, waste and insurance industries. Jim has created a sensor which can sniff out pesticides, heavy metals and oil pollutants in soil. He is currently developing a photographic detector that will complement the sensor. The new technology will be marketed through EnvirInvent Limited, a proposed spin-out company from Napier University.
Jim was one of five finalists in NERC's Environmental Sciences Business Plan Competition. His prize-money will be ploughed into EnvirInvent to develop the business plans further.
Further information
Dr Jim Philp
Napier University
Tel: 0131 455 2462
NERC Press Office
Natural Environment Research Council
Polaris House, North Star Avenue
Swindon, SN2 1EU
Tel: 01793 411727 or 411561
Mob: 07917 086369 or 557215
Notes
1. The winning team in the NERC Business plan Competition is from the Centre for Global Atmospheric Modelling at Reading University. They received £12,500 for their business development.
2. NERC leads in providing independent research and training in the environmental sciences.
Press release: 05/01
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