In this role IiR are supported to build their knowledge and expertise in design-led innovation, grow their confidence as design innovation practitioners, broaden their horizons and professional networks and often establish their own enterprise. During the year, IiR work with academics, project partners and stakeholders in further development of collaborative project work. The MDI academic team mentor IiR who support their research, practice and enterprise activities.Working in the MDI studio, IiR may also provide support to MDI students on their live projects.
Previous Innovators in Residence now work as senior innovation consultants, senior user researchers or innovation and product development managers, while others have started their own design innovation agencies or have pursued careers in academia.
Suzanne Nicolson joined the Northumbria School of Design as an Innovator in Residence in November 2022 a few years after graduating with distinction from the Design MA. Prior to her studies in innovation, Suzanne studied Fashion Textiles Print Design (BA) at the University for the Creative Arts (UCA).
As Innovator in Residence, she has been involved in moving forward with the Net Zero project in the latest iteration of Creative Fuse. Alongside supporting students and fellow colleagues with ongoing projects/workshops.
Suzanne is exploring the design thinking and creative practices in the field of innovation and design and how she can significantly use these skills to work in creating a more sustainable creative industry. Also has a keen interesting in exploring Experimental learning more and how this can be used throughout industry.
Baraa graduated from Multidisciplinary Innovation MA and started her role as Innovator in Residence in September 2022. Prior to that, she completed a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Psychology here at Northumbria University. Baraa has in interest in human-centred digital innovation & mental health.
As Innovator in Residence, they have been involved in a variety of CFNE (Creative Fuse North East) initiatives and projects such as GRTI (Get Ready To Innovate) workshops, as well as supporting fellow academics and MDI students.
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