In this episode of The Knowledge Exchange, host David Roberts is joined by Dr Clair Cooper, Research Fellow at our Net Zero Industry Innovation Centre.

Clair shares her journey from the water industry into academia and explores her work on ensuring the transition to a low carbon economy is fair for both businesses and communities. As part of the Research England Hydrogen Innovation Project, Clair’s work contributes to a broader effort to support innovation, skills development and regional growth through hydrogen.

The conversation focuses on the role of hydrogen in Teesside’s industrial future, the region’s unique infrastructure, and why a “just transition” is critical to long-term success. From engaging local communities through innovative digital tools and virtual reality, to building skills pipelines that start in primary school, this episode highlights how research is shaping a more inclusive approach to decarbonisation.

The discussion also tackles trust, public perception, and the importance of learning from the region’s industrial past to create new opportunities for future generations.