Innovation here

News that investment in research and development in Scotland is lower than in the rest of the UK (your report, 14 July) is disappointing and may overshadow some of the fantastic examples of knowledge transfer that are making a real difference to industry.

Scotland's university-based research is amongst the best in the world. What makes the difference is translating that expertise into profits and operational efficiency for business. This is essential in this tough economic climate.

With this in mind, Edinburgh Napier University recently launched nine institutes of research and innovation. These are designed to act as one-stop shops for businesses to access expertise, research, facilities and product testing. The move is intended to help develop more than 300 new products and services and create more than 300 full time equivalent new jobs.

Our research and development programmes prioritise the government's key sectors to drive active innovation in the areas that will have the greatest impact on economic growth.

Scotland's future success depends on building our national and international competitiveness, being globally engaged and working towards world-class performance. Innovation is at the heart of this goal.

Our recent experience has seen how investing in innovation can deliver real results. We recently won the Queen's Anniversary Prize for sound insulation research that was developed into industry standards now used in 75 per cent of all attached new homes in England and Wales.

Our newly launched, world-class Nano Safety Centre sees scientists working with manufacturers to further understand the safe use of tiny synthetic particles used in everyday products from medicines to sunscreen and antibacterial socks.

We are actively seeking to encourage the private sector to get more involved.

VICE PRINCIPAL PROF ROBIN MACKENZIE

Edinburgh Napier University, Craighhouse Campus