Event

Implications of the 2026 Scottish Election outcome

This event hosted by UK think tank the NCUB discusses the implications of the Scottish election outcome for university-business collaboration.

The Royal Society of Edinburgh and NCUB are hosting a webinar to examine what the next Scottish Government’s agenda could mean for university-business collaboration, investment in R&D and skills, and long‑term economic competitiveness.

What the webinar will explore 

• The headline policy commitments emerging from the election campaign and their implications for collaboration.
• How potential shifts in funding, regulation, and skills policy could affect joint projects, innovation pipelines, and regional economic development.
• Opportunities for universities and businesses to shape the post‑election agenda and advocate for partnership‑driven growth.
• Practical considerations for planning in a period of political and financial uncertainty.

Speakers

Rosalind Gill – Director of Policy, Analysis and External Affairs, NCUB

Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli – President, RSE

Dr Janet Brown – Vice President Education, RSE

Dr Poonam Malik – Vice President Economy and Enterprise, RSE

This event offers a timely, evidence‑led space for leaders across higher education and industry to understand what is changing, what it means for their organisations, and how collaboration can remain resilient and strategic in the next phase of Scottish policymaking.