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We welcome South Yorkshire’s expert academics, organisations and businesses to our free networking events to engage with other thought leaders and build links with both Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Sheffield to drive future collaborations.

The Innovation Network provides an opportunity for attendees to hear about the latest hot topics, joint challenges and priorities for South Yorkshire, from experts in South Yorkshire. Our team sits across both Sheffield Universities and works with the South Yorkshire Chambers and key partners in the business, public and third sectors to generate a mutually beneficial network. We put people in touch with each other so they can share knowledge, and help our region grow in ways that are good for the economy, the environment, culture, and skills.

The Innovation Network South Yorkshire is a joint initiative between the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University to deliver events that support growth in our region.

Meet the team

Assistant Director of Research, Partnerships and Innovation and Head of Regional Engagement, University of Sheffield

Yasmin Knight

Yasmin joined the University of Sheffield in 2014 and is responsible for the University’s regional impact. Yasmin brings partners together to enable collaboration, prosperity and growth which are key parts of the University’s duty as a civic and anchor institution.

A graduate member of the Institute of Export, Yasmin had previously gained over 10 years’ experience in international trade in manufacturing industries. She used this experience prior to joining the University to lead a number of regional enterprise support programmes assisting both business start-ups and existing businesses to grow and innovate over a period of ten years.

Head of Innovation Services, Sheffield Hallam University

Alex Prince

Alex leads the Knowledge Exchange Team in the Research and Innovation Office. Alex is accountable for a wide range of services, including economic development, commercialisation and IP, Innovate UK applications and ERDF projects.
Regional Partnerships Development Officer, University of Sheffield

Laura Talbot

Laura supports businesses across South Yorkshire to develop collaborative relationships with the University of Sheffield, through research collaborations, knowledge exchange projects, access to translational facilities and provision of skills development. Previously, Laura worked within Careers & Employability to support regional employers to develop their student and graduate recruitment strategies.
Innovation Development Officer, Sheffield Hallam University

Lauren McConnell

Lauren works collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to develop and deliver innovation and knowledge exchange activity for the Innovation Services at Sheffield Hallam University.
Communications Officer, University of Sheffield

Rob Langley

Rob provides communications and marketing support to the Innovation Network's events, social media and website.