Sandeep Sandhu

I am an experienced research and innovation sector professional, with a demonstrated history of building high level and successful partnerships with governments, industry and public sector bodies in the UK and internationally.

I am responsible for developing and maintaining strategic and durable relationships with a multitude of stakeholders. Previously I led the delivery and management of Innovate UK Business Connect’s international programmes, facilitating research and innovation collaborations with key economies around the world.

I have a wealth of experience working on research and innovation policy, across a wide range of disciplines and within a variety of international programmes. Previously I worked as a Senior International Policy Manager at UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) leading on international strategy, transnational partnerships, European policy and UKRI’s participation in the Global Research Council. I also worked at the Medical Research Council in a variety of roles, from managing their infections and immunity portfolio and global health programmes (e.g. Newton Fund, Global Challenges Research Fund, Global Alliance for Chronic Diseases) to acting as the National Contact Point for Health on Horizon 2020.

I completed my PhD at the University of Birmingham in the field of Biochemistry, developing a novel detection system utilising engineered bacteriophages.