Cranfield University has renamed its world-renowned Aerospace Integration Research Centre (AIRC) as The Sir Peter Gregson Aerospace Integration Research Centre, in honour of the late Professor Sir Peter Gregson FREng, former Chief Executive and Vice-Chancellor of the University.
Sir Peter was also the founding Chair of the Arc Universities Group, championing the role of research-intensive universities in driving innovation and regional growth.
The renaming of this landmark facility was marked by a special event attended by alumni, former senior leaders, honorary graduates, and key members of the Cranfield community. Guests of honour included Sir Peter’s wife, Lady Rachael Gregson, and their three daughters, who unveiled a commemorative plaque. Among those paying tribute were Baroness Barbara Young, former Chancellor of Cranfield University, and Professor Sir Iain Gray, former Director of Aerospace at Cranfield.
Sir Peter served as Vice-Chancellor from 2013 to 2021, a period defined by strategic growth and deepened partnerships with industry and government. His leadership was pivotal in the establishment of the AIRC, which opened in 2017 as a flagship collaboration between Airbus, Rolls-Royce, and HEFCE (now Research England). The Centre continues to be a vital hub for advanced aerospace research and innovation.
