The University of Chichester is set to host its first Research and Innovation Week in September, featuring a diverse programme of seminars, public events and the annual research conference – as well as a business event featuring Alex Polizzi, the Hotel Inspector.
Running from 7-11 September, this new flagship event will bring the University and wider community together to celebrate, showcase and strengthen research and innovation in areas as diverse as health, sport, engineering, AI, computing, psychology and literature. The week will highlight impactful work, foster collaboration and connect academics from the University with partners from industry, policy and the wider community.
Dr Clive Hayter, Director Research & Innovation at the University of Chichester said: “Research & Innovation Week 2026 demonstrates the University of Chichester’s commitment to research that makes a meaningful difference beyond academia. By bringing together researchers, businesses, policymakers, students and our wider community, we are creating opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange and real-world impact. The week will celebrate the outstanding research taking place across the University while strengthening the partnerships that will help shape innovation, economic growth and societal change in the years ahead.”
The week kicks off with a day of seminars for the University community on Monday (7 September) from 8.30am-9.30am, including an introduction to the University’s strategic vision for research and a session on influencing policy through research.
The business community will be welcomed in on Tuesday (8 September), with a Business Breakfast from 7.30am to 9am. The theme of the event is driving growth through research and innovation, and there will be a series of five-minute flash presentations covering innovation, skills development and knowledge exchange. Speakers will include academics in psychology, accounting, engineering and business. There will also be a chance for networking, and tickets are available, here.
On Tuesday evening, a keynote lecture by Sam Blacker, Professor of Exercise Physiology and Nutrition, will explore the topic ‘Optimising Human Health and Performance’. Sam co-leads the Occupational Performance Research Group at the University and has over 25 years’ experience delivering research and consultancy to enhance performance, improve health and reduce injury in physically demanding occupations, such as the military. He will share his insights at the public lecture, and tickets can be booked here.
The University’s annual research conference takes place on Wednesday and Thursday (9-10 September) at The Dome on Bognor Regis Campus, with the theme ‘Achieving Impact from Research’ – and academics will gather to share and discuss their research from across the University.
And on Friday (September 11), the Chichester Chamber of Commerce & Industry hosts its Back to Business event at the Bishop Otter Campus, a major new annual event for the business community within Chichester and across the region. Inspired by the back-to-school season, the event runs from 8.30am to 5pm and will help prepare Sussex businesses of all sizes for growth and stability with a range of sessions and workshops -including a headline talk by Alex Polizzi, the Hotel Inspector. Find out more here.
For more on research at the University of Chichester, visit: https://www.chi.ac.uk/research/