Fast facts

• Academic turned entrepreneur
• Set up satellite data processing / quality control company to develop end user applications for this specialist data source
• Supported by Plymouth University and located at Tamar Science Park, both part of the GAIN network
• Clients include European Space Agency (ESA) and Technology Strategy Board
• Mutual benefits for both ARGANS and Plymouth University
• Employs 18 people with three apprenticeships

Background

ARGANS (Applied Research in Geomatics, Atmosphere, Nature and Space) was established in 2007 to map and monitor the ocean, land, weather patterns and global environmental change through the use of satellite acquired data. It has received funding from organisations such as the European Space Agency (ESA) and Technology Strategy Board and is developing products and services that can be sold world-wide.

ARGANS was set up by Plymouth University lecturer Dr Samantha Lavender who had already been involved with commercial remote sensing data projects and knew that the company would benefit from important links to the University.

GAIN – the benefits

After scaling down her teaching load in oceanography and hydrography, Samantha worked with Plymouth University to create an innovative enterprise within the growth area of satellite remote sensing. The University was keen to get involved in the project because of the obvious mutual benefits in terms of real work experience for students and establishing direct links to a developing high-tech industry.

The University retained a small share-holding in the company as well as having a director on the board. ARGANS also benefited from access to motivated students and Plymouth University resources.

The company located on the Tamar Science Park which offered space to grow, state-of-the-art IT facilities plus an innovative and entrepreneurial environment.

Dr Samantha Lavender said: “Through having an office at Tamar Science Park we have been able to maintain an important association with a marine focused university like Plymouth, which is highly desirable for a number of reasons, including collaborative work with PhD students bringing both long and short term benefits.”

Results and the future

• ARGANS continues to expand, keeping close ties with Plymouth University and its students
• Is well placed and respected within the international market/community for new projects
• Setting sights on overseas contracts

POSTED IN Case Studies