The University of Derby is an ambitious, industry-connected, modern institution, recently named the UK’s ‘University of the Year’ and ranked 1st nationally for employability (Uni Compare 2027).
Listed in both the top 25 for teaching quality (The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026) and the top 20 for student satisfaction (Complete University Guide 2027), the University blends teaching excellence, research innovation and industry engagement to provide a hands-on, highly practical learning environment. Celebrated for the outstanding student experience it offers and the life-changing outcomes it supports, the University was rated ‘Gold’ in the most recent Teaching Excellence Framework.
Covering six core academic themes (Biomedical and Clinical Science; Creative and Cultural Industries; Data Science; Business, Economic and Social Policy; Public Services; and Zero Carbon), the University’s research proposes exciting new solutions to pressing global challenges — from preserving coral reefs to reducing carbon emissions. Its academic provision is shaped by close collaboration with employers and professional bodies, ensuring students develop the knowledge, skills and experience required for successful careers.
The University of Derby (UoD) leads the development of AI capabilities connecting battery data, simulation models and engineering decisions within ACCELERATE. Its principal responsibilities are AI/LLM-based model orchestration and battery datasheet ingestion. UoD will enable engineers to query validated models, compare operating and testing scenarios, and identify evidence gaps through a traceable natural-language interface. It will also extract specifications, tables and graphical data from heterogeneous datasheets, quantify confidence and uncertainty, and translate missing information into prioritised experimental recommendations. Supporting contributions include AI-assisted experimental design, predictive ageing modelling and surrogate models. LucenAI, identified in the proposal as a University of Derby contractor, will undertake subcontracted LLM orchestration development using its existing framework, adapted for battery simulation workflows. This relationship avoids duplicating development and separates existing intellectual property from project-generated results. Together, these activities aim to reduce testing effort and accelerate battery validation while retaining human responsibility for safety decisions.
