Image courtesy SaxaVord UK Spaceport
 
Mason Robbins (above), who will be based in Unst, said he was excited to be joining the team.
 
The full-time, year-long post is supported by Highlands and Islands Enterprise.
 
“Education and skills are just as important as physical infrastructure, and I’m really looking forward to helping develop this aspect of the spaceport,” said Dr Robbins.

 
“Space is a hugely exciting sector and there are numerous educational and skills development opportunities for everyone from school kids to retirees.
 
“Our long-term objective is to create a world-leading education, development and innovation hub that we hope will be the benchmark for this ever-changing industry.”
 
Yvette Hopkins, SaxaVord Spaceport’s director of innovation and partnerships, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have Mason on board to develop this important area of our work.
 
“He will build on the efforts already made and the excellent links with schools through Shetland Islands Council and partnered universities around the world.”
 
Dr Robbins, who has a PhD in Science, Technology and Innovation from the University of Edinburgh, had been the UK’s Innovation Hub Ambassador for Barcelona FC, and prior to that worked as an MBA Executive Assistant for Real Madrid FC in Spain.
 
A keen lacrosse player, he is also the Chairman of Lacrosse Scotland and Vice-President of the European Lacrosse Federation.