Dr Junaid Syed has been appointed as a Royal Society Entrepreneur in Residence
Edinburgh Napier University (ENU) has strengthened its innovation and commercialisation capacity with the appointment of Dr Junaid Syed as a Royal Society Entrepreneur in Residence (EiR).
The award is one of only a small number granted across the UK this year and recognises ENU’s growing leadership in applied research and industry focused innovation.
In addition, Lynne Cadenhead has been granted a third year extension to her existing Royal Society EiR term, continuing her work to enhance entrepreneurial skills and support across the University.
Dr Syed (pictured right) brings more than 30 years of experience spanning academia, defence and the wireless communications industry. His expertise covers antennas, microwave engineering, applied electromagnetics and communication networks.
Through his residency, running from March 2026 to March 2028, Dr Syed will lead the initiative Transforming Research to Reality (R2R): Mentoring, Mobilising and Commercialising Innovation.
The programme is designed to accelerate the commercial readiness and societal impact of ENU’s research, aligning closely with Scotland’s National Innovation Strategy and The UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy.
Supporting researchers to take ideas to market
As EiR, Dr Syed will provide structured, hands-on support to researchers across the University, guiding them through the full commercialisation journey.
His work will include:
- Supporting new technologies - development of antennas, communication systems and AI driven network management tools
- Mentoring researchers - strengthening commercial pathways and funding applications
- Showcasing ENU research - facilitating partnerships that can lead to licensing, collaboration or spinout formation
A key focus will be on technologies that improve connectivity for underserved and remote communities.
Dr Syed’s appointment is also anticipated to spark new industrial collaborations in areas such as the Internet of Things, telecommunications, Industry 5.0, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and sustainable wireless infrastructure.
On his appointment as EiR, Dr Syed said: “I am honoured to join Edinburgh Napier University as a Royal Society Entrepreneur in Residence.
“I look forward to working closely with faculty and students to help translate innovative research into real-world solutions, strengthen industry collaboration and support the development of commercially viable technologies with global impact.”
Continuing entrepreneurial leadership
Alongside Dr Syed’s appointment, Lynne Cadenhead's (pictured right) EiR extension reflects the continued success and impact of her work in strengthening entrepreneurial capability across ENU.
Her third year will build on work to support women entrepreneurs, enhancing enterprise education and expanding industry engagement.
In addition, Mary Jane Brouwers continues for a second year in her EiR role, playing a key part in developing the Investing for Impact Hub with Bright Red Triangle, ENU’s enterprise hub.
Welcoming the appointments, Fiona Mason, Head of Business Engagement and IP Commercialisation at ENU, said: “We are delighted to have Dr Junaid Syed become Edinburgh Napier’s Royal Society Entrepreneur in Residence.
“His deep industry experience and technical expertise will be invaluable in helping our researchers translate their ideas into commercially viable solutions.
“This award strengthens our ability to turn world class research into real-world impact, and it reflects the growing momentum of ENU’s innovation and commercialisation activity.”
Nick Fannin, Head of Enterprise at ENU, said: “We are pleased that the Royal Society has recognised the outstanding contribution of Lynne Cadenhead with a third‑year extension to her residency.
“Lynne has been instrumental in championing entrepreneurial skills across the University, particularly in empowering women entrepreneurs and supporting their pathways into innovation and enterprise.”
“Alongside this, we are delighted to see Mary Jane Brouwers continue in her EiR role, supporting the development of the Investing for Impact Hub and strengthening our enterprise ecosystem.
“Their combined leadership helps us build a more inclusive, confident and ambitious entrepreneurial community at ENU.”