The collaboration between AISUS and Robert Gordon University began in 2020 and has resulted in two successful KTP projects. Supported through the KTP programme, the partnership has advanced automated defect recognition and localisation, explored the use of 360-degree camera technology, and strengthened AISUS’s internal artificial intelligence and data science capability. One of the projects was graded Outstanding by Innovate UK.
This success demonstrates the value of bringing academic expertise into a real industrial environment. AISUS contributes specialist knowledge of remote inspection, offshore operations, engineering interpretation and client needs. RGU contributes research expertise in artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer vision and data science. Innovate UK support provides the framework that enables knowledge to be transferred, embedded and applied within the business.
The partnership brings together the complementary strengths of AISUS and Robert Gordon University through the Knowledge Transfer Partnership programme, with support from Innovate UK. Within AISUS. Ewen Robertson, Chief Technical Officer, and Zargham Salari, AI Project Manager, provide strategic, technical and project leadership for the new KTP initiative, ensuring that the research remains aligned with genuine engineering challenges, commercial priorities and industry requirements. From Robert Gordon University, Professor Eyad Elyan provides academic leadership and specialist expertise in artificial intelligence and machine learning, supporting the transfer of advanced research into practical industrial applications.
The partnership also demonstrates the value of specialist talent development. Urmilla Gurung, Data Scientist and former KTP Associate, contributes to AISUS’s wider AI and data science capability, reflecting the programme’s success in transferring knowledge and embedding expertise within the business. Earlier KTP activity, including the contribution of Luis Toral, has also supported the development of AISUS’s AI-enabled inspection capability.
Building on this success, AISUS is now looking to recruit a new KTP Associate to join the team and contribute to the next phase of innovation. The successful candidate will work closely with AISUS, RGU, and industry specialists to further develop the company’s AI-driven technologies and enhance the capabilities of its digital platforms.
Building on the success of two previous KTP projects, AISUS and Robert Gordon University are now preparing a proposal for a new Knowledge Transfer Partnership, with support being sought through the Innovate UK KTP programme. The proposed project will move beyond identifying and visualising defects to explore how asset condition changes over time and how future degradation can be assessed with greater confidence.
This direction supports the continued development of Project c|AI|sson, an AISUS initiative focused on predictive caisson integrity and decision support. By connecting historical inspection evidence, environmental and operational information, engineering knowledge and intelligent analysis, the work aims to help clients move from reactive inspection towards more proactive, risk-informed integrity management.
As the partnership moves into its next phase, AISUS remains committed to working with RGU and Innovate UK to advance the application of AI within inspection and asset integrity. By combining academic research, industry experience and specialist talent, the collaboration is helping transform innovative ideas into sustainable capabilities with practical applications across the energy sector.
The partnership represents more than the development of new technology. It is an investment in people, knowledge and long-term innovation, creating a strong foundation from which AISUS and RGU can continue addressing complex industry challenges together.