For over 30 years Lord Kumar Bhattacharyya reinvigorated manufacturing, from his early research in machining to the programmes of WMG (Warwick Manufacturing Group), which he founded at the University of Warwick in 1980.
WMG is renowned for its academic–industry collaboration and works with 500 global companies on research challenges, including advanced propulsion, low-carbon materials and digital healthcare. The group’s innovations range from in-mould painting and soundscapes in hospitals to technologies underpinning 400-kilogram-lighter vehicles, and house building as a manufacturing process. Over 25,000 individuals have participated in WMG’s tailored education, comprising industry-focused modular Master’s programmes, the Engineering Doctorate and the WMG Academy, a business-focused school.
Throughout his career, Lord Bhattacharyya brokered significant partnerships, including the acquisition of Jaguar Land Rover by Tata. He advised industry and governments internationally, sat on the UK Council for Science and Technology and chaired Singapore’s manufacturing excellence awards. He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering in 1991, knighted in 2003 for services to education and industry and made a life peer in 2004. He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 2014.
Baron Bhattacharyya Kt CBE FREng FRS died on 1 March 2019.
Professional position
- Chairman & Prof. Manufacturing Systems Engineering, WMG Innovative Solutions
Subject groups
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Engineering and Materials Science
Communications incl information theory, Computer engineering (including software), Engineering, control (incl robotics), Engineering, electronics, Engineering, environmental, Engineering, general, Engineering, mechanical, Engineering, medical, Materials science (incl materials engineering)
