Exeter University ocean scientist scoops international award

Dalian University of Technology (DUT) in China has appointed Professor of Ocean Technology at the University of Exeter, Lars Johanning, a ‘Hai-Tian’ Sea-Sky Scholar in recognition of his research into ocean energy and technology.

The award will see Johanning lead collaborative research with colleagues from China to create more secure and sustainable energy resources for China, according to the University of Exeter.

Johanning received the award for his high-profile ocean energy research, which focuses on meeting the challenges of generating wave power, as well as enhancing the mooring designs for novel energy platforms.

He has been head of the University of Exeter’s Offshore Renewable Energy group, based at the Penryn Campus in Cornwall, since 2011.

Speaking upon receiving the award, Johanning said: “With a growing energy demand in China it is essential to collaborate in the ocean energy sector to enable a secure and sustainable energy future in China. Addressing climate change is a global challenge, and only by working together can we make the difference that is so desperately required.”

The award has a three-year term and Johanning will be implementing collaborative research activities for one month for each of the next three years, working with DUT researchers by addressing ocean energy challenges to boost renewable energy generation in China, University of Exeter informed.

The Hai-Tian Scholar award is part of DUT’s efforts to improve its research quality through collaboration with well-known researchers throughout the world.