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The official opening of the Computer Science building

Opened by Dr Graham Spittle, IBM on 29 March 2011

Our new purpose-built accommodation on the University campus expansion at Heslington East was officially opened by Dr Graham Spittle, Chief Technology Officer and Vice President, Software Group Europe, for IBM on 29 March 2011.

Demonstration on our official opening in the Crossrail Hardware Laboratory

Dr Spittle was able to join us for the day, and toured the Department, meeting both students and staff. He was given demonstrations of our research in our brand-new facilities. This included our work with making technology more accessible for older and disable people in the new Interactive Home Laboratory; our development in robotics, which will include flying and submerged robots when our new robot lab opens; and our work in 3D imaging, using our cyber-scanner and multispectral light stage – one of only two in the world.

Dr Spittle rounded off his visit with the official opening ceremony, where he talked about the links between Computer Science and IBM. He said,

“The opening coincides with a major landmark at IBM, as we celebrate our Centennial year. At this time, we too are firmly focused on the role that Computer Science can play in addressing major global issues: food availability, water supply and distribution, energy supply and security, city congestion and environmental modelling.

"Through this investment, and by partnering effectively with business in its research and development, this new facility will be fundamental in developing the future skills and expertise required to address these challenges."

Professor John McDermid, Head of Department of Computer Science, added: “Our fantastic new building has enhanced our facilities for research and teaching, benefitting both staff and students.

"It provides purpose-designed facilities for teaching, space to support spin-out companies and entrepreneurship, as well as dedicated research laboratories to help keep our research at the forefront of the discipline. The move helps to cement our position as a leading department of computer science nationally and internationally.”

Logos for European Regional Development Fund and Science City York

Development of the new Department of Computer Science building has been supported by investment from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) in Yorkshire and the Humber, part of a major infrastructure project led by Science City York to extend the assets and strategic potential of York as a leading centre for science and innovation.

We recorded the talk Dr Spittle gave when he officially opened the building. He talked about the role Computer Science has in making the planet more sustainable, which is all part of the IBM Smarter Planet initiative. Watch what Dr Spittle had to say.