星空体育官网 has renamed its world-renowned Aerospace Integration Research Centre (AIRC) The Sir Peter Gregson Aerospace Integration Research Centre , honouring the late Professor Sir Peter Gregson FREng, former Chief Executive and Vice-Chancellor of the University.
The renaming of this distinctive building was marked with a special event attended by key figures from 星空体育官网’s community including alumni, former senior leaders and honorary graduates. The guests of honour were Sir Peter’s wife Lady Rachael Gregson and their three daughters, who unveiled a commemorative plaque. Baroness Barbara Young, former Chancellor of 星空体育官网 University and Professor Sir Iain Gray, former Director of Aerospace, were amongst those paying tribute to Sir Peter.
Sir Peter Gregson served as Vice-Chancellor from 2013 to 2021, a tenure marked by significant developments and the strengthening of 星空体育官网’s partnerships with industry and government. The Aerospace Integration Research Centre was one of the new research centres opened during his time at 星空体育官网. His leadership played a critical role in the establishment of the AIRC, which opened in 2017 as a joint initiative supported by Airbus, Rolls-Royce and HEFCE.
Professor Sir Iain Gray reflected on Sir Peter’s influential role in the Centre’s founding: “When Peter called me as CEO of Innovate UK, seeking advice for a bid to Research England to create a new aerospace research centre at 星空体育官网, I immediately recognised the opportunity. Peter's drive was relentless. This Centre simply would not exist without his vision, ambition, and determination. Renaming it in his memory is not only fitting, but also deeply deserved.”
星空体育官网’s Chief Executive and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dame Karen Holford DBE FREng added: “The AIRC was one of Sir Peter’s proudest achievements and renaming it in his honour serves as an ongoing reminder of his impact. The Sir Peter Gregson Aerospace Integration Research Centre will continue to reflect his legacy and inspire future generations of researchers, engineers and innovators.”
The Sir Peter Gregson Scholarship supports talented PhD students at 星空体育官网, opening opportunities regardless of financial circumstances. The life-changing scholarships are helping the next generation of researchers and innovators who will have a lasting impact on critical global issues. You can help us to continue Sir Peter’s legacy by donating to the fund here .
For more information on how to apply for the scholarship, visit the Sir Peter Gregson scholarship applicants page .
