About the North Sea University Partnership (NSUP)

The NSUP links four universities in the North of England (Durham, Leeds, Newcastle, and York) with four universities in Norway (Bergen, Oslo, Tromsø (University of the Arctic), and Trondheim (Norwegian University of Science and Technology). This collaboration builds on centuries of shared history in shipping, trade, and cultural exchange. It focuses on areas of mutual interest, including energy, the green transition, marine research, and cultural heritage, aligning with the research and innovation priorities of both countries’s governments.

This initiative is supported by the UK-Norway joint declaration of May 2022, which emphasizes bilateral strategic cooperation in research, innovation, and education, among other areas. It is also strengthened by the ‘Money Follows Cooperation’ agreement between UKRI and the Research Council of Norway.

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About the Competition

The North Sea University Partnership (NSUP) invites innovative and creative design ideas for a logo that encapsulates the spirit of collaboration, history, and vision driving the partnership. NSUP is a network linking eight universities across England and Norway to address critical issues in the North Sea region while celebrating shared cultural heritage. In particular, it addresses a new Green Industrial Partnership agreement between the UK and Norwegian governments:

The North Sea University Partnership (NSUP) is a newly established collaboration between leading universities in Norway and Northern England, comprising four institutions from each country. This partnership unites the expertise of these prominent universities to enhance research and educational cooperation in energy production, green transition, and marine science across the North Sea region.

We are looking for a logo that reflects this unique partnership and aligns with its priority areas: energy, green transition, marine research, and cultural heritage. Applicants at all levels are encouraged to participate, particularly those studying or working in design-related fields. The winning design will be featured prominently across NSUP platforms and events. The winner will be selected by a panel formed by a member from each of the eight NSUP universities. The creator of the winning submission will be awarded with a certificate and invited to attend the NSUP launching in 2025. Shortlisted applicants will also be recognised for their submissions.

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General Criteria: The Winning Entrant will Create a Logo That:

1. Highlights the partnership between English and Norwegian universities and their historical and contemporary connections.
2. Represents the themes of the North Sea (energy, sustainability, marine research) and our shared cultural heritage through a balanced visual identity.
3. Establishes a strong brand identity that reflects NSUP’s mission to drive innovation, sustainability, and cultural exchange.
4. Communicates a clear and contemporary visual presence suitable for diverse audiences.
5. Works effectively across print and digital media and adapts to various display sizes.
6. Functions well in both black and white as well as in full colour.
7. Incorporates the acronym “NSUP” with purposeful and legible typography. Alternatively, this doesn’t have to be incorporated in the logo – it could be in the strapline underneath.
8. Embodies principles of strong visual communication, creativity, and timeless design.
9. Is modern and future-looking, with a nod to the past heritage that unites our countries.
10. Is versatile and future-proof, capable of representing NSUP as it evolves.

Note: Entrants must have an official and current University of Leeds-issued email address to participate in this competition

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Submission

Entrants must have an official and current University of Leeds-issued email address to participate. The competition closes on 22 January 2025 (Wednesday) at 2pm. Late entries may not be considered, so ensure your design is submitted on time. Applicants may submit one concept only, which can include multiple development stages and explanations within a single PDF document. This document should also include a brief biography of up to 100 words. Please keep submissions under 8MB in size. Your PDF document should clearly showcase the visual concept and any supporting explanations. High-resolution visuals are essential, and clarity is a priority. Submit your entry here by 22 January 2025, 2pm.

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Contact Information

For further information on NSUP or this competition, please contact Dr Arjun Khara at a.khara[@]leeds.ac.uk. Thank you for your interest, and we very much look forward to receiving your submissions!

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