Research and Knowledge Exchange Festival 2026

Bookings are now open for the University of Lancashire’s Research and Knowledge Exchange (RKE) Festival 2026.

This is a five-day programme of free events designed to connect businesses, researchers, policymakers and innovators.

The festival features over 60 events highlighting how university research is translated into real-world impact through industry collaboration, funding opportunities, innovation support and knowledge exchange. Attendees will gain practical insights, explore specialist facilities and discover ways to work with the University on future projects.

Each day focuses on a key theme shaping regional and national priorities:

Day 1 – Defence, Security and Digital (Monday 18 May)
Exploring justice, policing, digital innovation and emerging technologies including AI and deepfake detection.

Day 2 – Clean Energy, Sustainability and AI (Tuesday 19 May)
Addressing sustainable energy systems, clean growth and AI-led solutions through tours, panels and applied research case studies.

Day 3 – Health and Wellbeing (Wednesday 20 May)
Showcasing clinical trials, biomedical research, resilient food systems and creative approaches to health challenges.

Day 4 – Culture and Creativity (Thursday 21 May)
Highlighting creative production, design, media, languages and cultural research, with access to specialist studios and facilities.

Day 5 – Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing (Friday 22 May)
Featuring the Engineering Innovation Centre, live demonstrations including large-scale robotic 3D printing, skills development, and opportunities for PhD collaboration, alongside a Preston business breakfast.

The festival is ideal for businesses of all sizes, SMEs, industry partners, public sector organisations and third-sector leaders looking to innovate, access expertise and build meaningful collaborations.

 View the full programme and book your place via Eventbrite for each day.