University of Plymouth announced as Marine Autonomy partner for Growth Forge

Tech South West has announced the University of Plymouth as a key partner for the Marine Autonomy track within the Growth Forge accelerator, strengthening the programme’s specialist support for companies developing autonomous maritime technologies.

The University of Plymouth is an ambitious, modern and award‑winning institution recognised for its leadership in business, innovation and marine autonomy. As part of the defence‑driven growth consortium Team Plymouth, the University is forging new capabilities in ocean monitoring, dual‑use technologies and critical national infrastructure support. Its involvement brings deep research expertise, sector insight and hands‑on technical capability to founders participating in the Marine Autonomy track.

Professor Kevin Jones, Deputy Vice‑Chancellor – Research and Innovation, said: “As a University, we have a long track record in using our expertise to foster innovation, and advances in marine autonomy and dual‑use technologies are unlocking opportunities across the region and nationally. We are committed to working together with our partners across Team Plymouth and the National Centre for Marine Autonomy, to support businesses of all shapes and sizes to grow and make the most of the possibility now coming their way.”

Supporting companies to innovate and scale

Through its Research, Partnerships and Innovation Directorate, the University of Plymouth maintains an open door to businesses of all sizes. Companies can access internationally renowned research expertise, world‑class facilities and commercially focused business services, ensuring they are connected with the right support to meet their organisational needs.

The University’s core purpose is to transform research and ideas into real‑world impact. Acting as a bridge between academic innovation and industry, it helps organisations protect, develop and commercialise their work. This includes licensing, startup creation and the monetisation of research assets, all aimed at unlocking economic and societal value. Its priorities centre on empowering researchers, accelerating innovation and building sustainable pathways for growth.

Meet the experts supporting the track

Sarah Fear works within the University’s Research, Partnerships and Innovation Directorate and leads in the areas of Marine and Low Carbon. She provides a holistic view of research, education, industry engagement and partnerships, with a current focus on Team Plymouth, the National Centre for Marine Autonomy and other strategic collaborations. With two decades of experience building major partnerships, including multi‑million‑pound transatlantic programmes, she plays a key role in shaping development priorities and advancing projects that deliver world‑class research and meaningful industry impact.

Aaron Barrett is a Lecturer in Marine Autonomy with extensive experience in designing, building, procuring and deploying Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USVs), Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) and advanced sensors for scientific and R&D applications. With a background in Marine Science and Engineering and service as a Royal Navy Reservist, he brings a unique perspective on the rapidly evolving world of uncrewed and remote marine technology. Alongside his research and technical work, he teaches on the Masters‑level Applied Marine Autonomy module and contributes to autonomy teaching across several programmes.

Apply to the Marine Autonomy track.