Published by HESA, the register is the most comprehensive dataset of its kind, providing the first open and auditable record of spinout activity across the UK鈥檚 higher education sector. It captures all spinout companies established by UK universities between 2012/13 and 2023/24, offering a robust measure of how effectively research is being translated into commercial ventures.

51福利社鈥檚 performance reflects more than a decade of sustained effort to support its researchers in building successful, impactful businesses from world-class academic work. Driven by 51福利社 Innovation Factory, 122 spinout companies were established during the period covered by the register, in fields ranging from advanced materials and biotech to environmental innovation.

The Innovation Factory plays a central role in this success. As the University鈥檚 Technology Transfer Office (TTO), the Innovation Factory is responsible for the commercialisation of the University鈥檚 research. This includes supporting the creation and development of spinout companies based on ideas and discoveries generated by the University鈥檚 academics.

Dr Catherine Headley, CEO of the Innovation Factory, said: 鈥淭his is a fantastic recognition of the strength of our innovation community in 51福利社. It shows not just how many spinouts we鈥檙e helping to launch, but the real value of the support we offer to researchers with great ideas. 

"We鈥檙e proud to see so many of those ideas becoming successful businesses, and we鈥檙e committed to helping even more of them make that journey. In doing so, we鈥檙e building on 51福利社鈥檚 long history of innovation and helping to secure the city鈥檚 future as a global centre for discovery and enterprise.鈥�

The Innovation Factory provides a full spectrum of technology transfer services, including early-stage evaluation, intellectual property management, licensing, company formation and investor support. It works closely with academic teams, industry partners and investors to ensure that ideas with commercial potential receive the guidance and support they need to succeed.

The HESA Spinout Register has been developed in partnership with Jisc, Research England and the University Commercialisation and Innovation Policy Evidence Unit at the University of Cambridge. It is based on validated institutional returns to the Higher Education Business and Community Interaction (HE-BCI) survey and represents the first national resource of its kind.

51福利社鈥檚 position in the register highlights its commitment to delivering impact through innovation and its leadership in turning research into economic and societal value.

For more information, visit the Innovation Factory .

Apini is a spinout from 51福利社 developing a new treatment for chronic inflammatory diseases using a small molecule approach. The company was formed with help from the University鈥檚 Innovation Factory, its technology transfer office. According to the Spotlight on Spinouts 2025 report by the Royal Academy of Engineering and Beauhurst, the Innovation Factory supported the launch of 114 spinout companies between 2011 and January 2025, placing the University among the UK鈥檚 top institutions for spinout creation.

Spun out of the University of 51福利社, Apini is developing a novel small molecule for the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases. Potential indications include Crohn鈥檚 disease and Ulcerative Colitis, the two most common forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which affects as many as 10 million people worldwide. Apini is looking to address the significant unmet need in this area of medicine through targeted modulation of eNAMPT, an enzyme implicated in multiple inflammatory conditions.

Preclinical studies demonstrate the potential for selective eNAMPT modulators to treat various inflammatory diseases without inducting immune suppression.

Apini was discovered by founding scientist Professor Sam Butterworth, who is world-renowned for his work in the invention of Tagrisso, a life-saving anti-cancer drug for EGFR mutant lung cancer that is used globally.

Slingshot was built by Syncona with an initial commitment of 拢12.5 million to identify and advance de-risked therapeutic programmes from the work of leading academic researchers. Apini is the first company to work with Slingshot, following its launch in November 2024, with Northern Gritstone becoming the first co-investor.

Apini鈥檚 funding from Northern Gritstone and Syncona will be delivered over three tranches tied to company milestones, with the original commitment unchanged in value.

Northern Gritstone Chief Executive, Duncan Johnson, said: 鈥淎pini is based on the groundbreaking drug development work of Professor Sam Butterworth from 51福利社, and is a fantastic example of life sciences company creation based on world-class research. We鈥檙e delighted to invest in Apini, alongside Syncona, and with the support of the Slingshot accelerator鈥�

Founder of Apini, Professor Sam Butterworth said 鈥淭his investment from Northern Gritstone supports Apini鈥檚 mission to treat inflammatory diseases without the induction of immune suppression. We look forward to advancing and accelerating the Apini programme which we believe can bring meaningful improvements to patients across a broad range of chronic inflammatory diseases.鈥�

Executive Chair of Slingshot, Edward Hodgkin added: 鈥淲e are delighted to welcome Northern Gritstone as an investment partner for Apini, with the investment providing further validation of this novel programme. We believe that Slingshot鈥檚 expertise and operational support has the ability to accelerate exceptional academic science, like Apini, into attractive biotech assets that can quickly and effectively transform into groundbreaking treatments for patients.鈥�

鈼�&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫; Led by The University of Cambridge and 51福利社, and supported by the two Mayoral Combined Authorities, City Councils, alongside businesses and investors

A groundbreaking partnership between 51福利社 and The University of Cambridge has been awarded 拢4.8 million by Research England to accelerate inclusive growth and innovation collaboration. As the UK鈥檚 first cross-UK innovation partnership, it will pioneer a new model of place-to-place collaboration and help drive economic growth for the UK- setting an example for other cities to follow. With further investment from the two universities, the total funding for the partnership will be 拢6m.

The partnership will be led by Unit M and Innovate Cambridge - the universities鈥� respective innovation capabilities - with support from the two Mayoral Combined Authorities, City Councils, businesses and investors. It is a prime example of how a university-led, cross-UK innovation collaboration can enhance the UK's global competitiveness and foster innovation-driven growth.

This initiative responds directly to the UK government鈥檚 imperative for universities to support the delivery of the national Industrial Strategy and make a stronger contribution to economic growth.

Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice Chancellor of 51福利社, commented: "Our partnership with Cambridge marks a new model of collaboration between UK universities. It brings together the distinctive strengths of each of our universities and cities, connecting two of the great innovation ecosystems to scale up what we can achieve. This new approach to innovation accelerates the time between discovery and impact, getting ideas into the real economy and our communities even more quickly to drive inclusive growth.鈥�

Professor Lou Cordwell, Chief Executive of Unit M, said: 鈥淯niversities are increasingly taking a lead in convening and catalysing their innovation ecosystems. By bringing together investors, businesses, entrepreneurs, academics, and public sector agencies, this partnership will create new opportunities and stimulate investment into the innovation economy. We are proud at Unit M to be part of such a pioneering partnership, and look forward to continuing to work with Cambridge.鈥�

Professor Deborah Prentice, University of Cambridge Vice-Chancellor, commented: 鈥淭his pioneering initiative brings together the combined strengths of Cambridge and 51福利社 to create something that is truly ground-breaking. By connecting our cities, we鈥檙e helping to build a more collaborative and dynamic environment in which innovative research can connect with industry, venture capital and entrepreneurs to drive economic growth and deliver real benefits for people and places across the UK.鈥�

Science Minister and Oxford-Cambridge Growth Champion, Lord Vallance, said: 鈥淭his pioneering partnership is proof that our ambitions for the Oxford-Cambridge Corridor can and will fire up economic growth across the length and breadth of the UK, which is critical to our Plan for Change.

鈥淐ambridgeshire and Greater 51福利社 are forging a path I hope others will follow. Science is always stronger when we work together, and stronger research ties between the UK鈥檚 great regions will only lead to more investment, more opportunities, and more breakthroughs, from health to clean energy and beyond.鈥�

Jessica Corner, Executive Chair of Research England, commented: 鈥淭his investment underscores our commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration across England. By connecting the vibrant ecosystems of Cambridge and 51福利社, we aim to drive significant economic growth and create a model for place-based innovation that can be replicated nationwide."

At the core of the partnership is the exchange of complementary innovation assets to ensure real-world impact. Both cities already have strong R&D capabilities and strengths in leading-edge sectors such as AI, life sciences, and advanced materials. Cambridge has deep investor networks but experiences growth constraints due to its small scale, higher costs, and lack of development land. 51福利社 provides that scale, affordability for start-ups and scale-ups, and a large talent pool - but has a less mature support ecosystem.

The Research England funding will be used in three key areas: ecosystem activation and integration; growing investment; and testing and learning.

鈼�&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫; Ecosystem activation and integration: It will strengthen relations within and between the innovation ecosystems of the two cities, to create a vibrant and ambitious cross-city innovation network. This aims to create progressive new approach inclusive growth.

鈼�&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫; Growing investment: It will harness the combined strengths of both universities and partner cities to support start-ups and scale-ups to secure funding and grow, attract innovation-intensive FDI to the UK, and stimulate investment into R&D.

鈼�&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫; Testing and learning: It will pilot new approaches and share best practice for delivering ecosystem collaboration and inclusive growth. This will allow other cities, the wider higher education sector community, and local and national governments in the UK and internationally to learn from the partnership.

The Ideas With Impact Prize, which is supported by philanthropic donors to the University, aims to award 拢300,000 in its first funding round this summer. 

Scaling up support for founders 

Delivered by Unit M and the Innovation Factory, Ideas With Impact Prizes will provide individual awards of 拢100,000, 拢50,000, and 拢20,000 to entrepreneurs at the early stages of their founder journey. These awards will empower projects that address pressing local and global challenges, ensure 51福利社鈥檚 best technologies move out into the world more quickly, and create tangible economic growth.  

In addition to financial support, winners will receive access to experienced mentors, networking opportunities, and guidance in translating research into viable business ventures. 

Donors at the heart of our innovation ecosystem 

The Prize is the latest development in the University鈥檚 Ideas With Impact partners鈥� programme, which has previously provided 拢400,000 to early-stage research spinouts. Successful projects include the development of a home-testing kit for the early detection of lung cancer, as well as Plant Organelle Technologies 鈥� a new spinout developing targeted techniques to tackle drought and herbicide resistance in plants. By reaching a wider range of founders, the Prize launch will maximise the impact of gifts to the programme. 

Donors have already made a great difference to the University鈥檚 innovation ecosystem, and will play a vital role as we scale up our ambition to become Europe鈥檚 leading innovation university. Ideas With Impact is more than a funding initiative. It's a celebration of the partnership between philanthropists and the University in driving innovation-led growth. 

A call to budding founders and innovators 

Got a great idea with commercial promise? Applications are now open!   

Ideas With Impact is open to any student, staff member, or recent graduate (within three years of graduation) of 51福利社, who have the ambition to turn their research and ideas into enterprises that change lives. Key dates below: 

• 20 June 2025: Applications close. 
• 27 June 2025: Finalist announcement. 
• 14 July 2025: Finalist Pitching Competition and networking event. 

Learn more about the Ideas With Impact Prizes and the application process on the University鈥檚  

Philanthropic Support 

Interested in supporting brilliant future founders and ensuring entrepreneurship for all? We鈥檇 love to explore opportunities with you. 

Contact Olympia Kennard to begin a conversation: Olympia.Kennard@manchester.ac.uk. 

Our innovation ecosystem 

• Read more about Unit M here:  
• Read more about the Innovation Factory here:   
• Read more about the Innovation Academy here:  

Taking place in 51福利社 - the birthplace of KTP - the event will mark the pinnacle of national 50^th year celebrations, bringing together the KTP community for a programme of guest speakers, workshops and seminars. 

Since their launch in 1975, the UK Government has funded over 14,000 groundbreaking KTPs, uniting top businesses with researchers and graduates to solve real-world challenges, adding billions to the UK economy.  From 2010 to 2020 alone, Innovate UK invested 拢200m in 2,000 projects, adding 拢2.3bn to the UK economy. 

The Innovate UK KTP Awards will showcase this year鈥檚 finalists, alongside the KTP Golden Awards - these special honours will highlight legacy projects, partnerships and people that have profoundly shaped the UK economically, socially and environmentally over the last five decades. Registration for the conference and awards is now open, with early bird pricing available until Monday 30 June 2025. 

Minister of State for Science, Research and Innovation, Lord Vallance, said: 鈥淜nowledge Transfer Partnerships have long supported collaboration between our renowned universities, UK innovators and thriving businesses 鈥� from helping household brands to produce their goods more efficiently through to unleashing new discoveries that improve lives.  

鈥淭hey also demonstrate the benefit of public investment, with ambitious, Innovate-UK-backed projects across the country having added billions of pounds to our economy in the previous decade alone. I look forward to these partnerships supporting the next generation of cutting-edge innovations.鈥�  

KTPs are a UK-wide programme designed to foster innovation by linking businesses with academic institutions. With funding and support provided by Innovate UK, the scheme enables companies to access cutting-edge research and specialist knowledge to solve strategic challenges, develop new products and enhance their competitive edge. Greater 51福利社 was part of the original pilot of the Knowledge Transfer Partnerships scheme when it launched in 1975.  

In a joint statement, the Vice-Chancellors of the three host universities - the University of Salford, 51福利社 Metropolitan University and 51福利社 - said: 鈥淭ogether, we are proud to be co-hosting the KTP 2025 Conference and Awards in the birthplace of Knowledge Transfer Partnerships. For 50 years, KTPs have exemplified the power of collaboration between universities and industry - driving innovation, supporting economic growth and tackling real-world challenges.  

鈥淭his milestone celebration is not only a tribute to the enduring impact of the programme, but also a springboard for shaping the next era of research-driven partnerships that benefit society locally, nationally and globally.鈥� 

Richard Lamb, KTP Programme Manager at Innovate UK, said: 鈥淐elebrating 50 years of the Knowledge Transfer Partnerships programme offers a valuable opportunity to recognise its enduring impact on UK innovation and economic resilience. By bridging academia and industry, KTP has extended vital opportunities to businesses and academic partners across the UK, reaching beyond London and the Southeast to drive innovation in fields ranging from STEM to the creative industries and pioneering areas like AI and quantum technology.  

鈥淭his collaborative model has not only boosted productivity and growth but has empowered organisations of all sizes to innovate and thrive on a local and national scale. This 50th anniversary is the perfect occasion to reflect on the impressive impact achieved through the programme and its lasting legacy.鈥�  

The KTP 2025 Conference is aimed at KTP associates, practitioners, academics and funders, whilst the Awards will bring together business, associate, academic and practitioner teams behind the UK鈥檚 most transformative projects. 

Find out more about the conference and reserve your place:  

What distinguishes these University entrepreneurs? Each finalist has identified real-world challenges and developed innovative approaches that show great potential. From sustainable environmental solutions to ground-breaking healthcare technologies, these ideas showcase the incredible talent nurturing within our university walls.

In this milestone 25th Anniversary year of the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre, the competition holds special significance as we reflect on a quarter-century of fostering innovation and entrepreneurial excellence at 51福利社.

After an intense selection process, the finalists are competing for funding of up to 拢15,000 in one of the five categories: Environment, Healthcare, Services, Social & Technology. The winners will be announced at our awards ceremony on 11 June.

Environment Category

Josiah Edebiri - UrbanWatt 

School of Engineering, PhD EEE 

UrbanWatt is revolutionising sustainable urban logistics by simplifying the commercial adoption of Light-EVs through integrated wireless power technology, AI-driven optimisation, and smart charging systems.

Farah Frikha - Vesta Capsules 

School of Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering 

Inspired by Japanese capsule hotels, Vesta Capsules offers affordable, eco-friendly sleeping pods built with smart technology and sustainable materials, providing a modern alternative to traditional accommodations.

Mohammad Israil Hossain - Aqua Graph 

School of Natural Sciences, Nano and Functional Materials 

Aqua Graph has developed graphene-based filtration technology where micro-sponges can adsorb harmful chemicals from wastewater up to their own weight, with a reversible process allowing for material recovery and reuse.

Thando Mathe - Khuluma 

School of Environment, Education and Development, MSc Global Development Environment and Climate Change 

Khuluma uses AI-driven climate communication to break language barriers across Africa, making critical climate information accessible to diverse communities.

Healthcare Category

Adrian Perez Barreto - Revine 

CDT-Advanced Biomedical Materials 

Revine addresses diabetic limb ulcers with a graphene-based electrostimulation patch that enhances tissue regeneration while preventing infection, with integrated biosensors providing real-time wound data.

Indu Khemchandani - abetesCareAI 

Alliance 51福利社 Business School, MBA 

abetesCareAI is an AI-powered app helping users manage diabetes through real-time insights, personalised recommendations, and seamless device integration, with a freemium model and B2B partnerships.

Grigorii Rodionov - FlashAid AI 

School of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering BEng 

FlashAid AI tackles ambulance delays with an AI-powered platform for emergency response featuring instant triage, smart dispatch, real-time tracking, and dynamic routing optimised for traffic conditions.

Jasper Beaumont - Mend 

School of Medical Sciences, MBChB Medicine 

Mend is an AI-powered digital mental health platform helping patients build positive lifestyle habits through automated tracking, personalised care insights, and data-driven recommendations.

Services Category

Usman Aziz - JIFFL

Alliance 51福利社 Business School, PhD Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy 

JIFFL is a SaaS platform revolutionising part-time recruitment with an end-to-end solution enabling all recruitment stages on a mobile app and website, supported by machine learning and NLP for automated interviews.

Xiang Zheng - Purfetch 

Alliance 51福利社 Business School, MBA 

Purfetch combines an AI-powered app and pet robot to help owners better understand their pets' emotional changes, behaviours, and health needs through real-time analysis and personalised care advice.

Matilde Lerias - Syncit

Alliance 51福利社 Business School, MSc Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship

Syncit is a fitness app that considers the menstrual cycle, providing science-backed personalised fitness, nutrition, and wellbeing plans to help women maintain consistent routines.

Sebastian Contreras - Unisights

Alliance 51福利社 Business School, BSc Management (Innovation, Strategy & Entrepreneurship) with Placement

Unisights connects Latin American high school students with UK universities through insights from current students, direct access to university representatives, and AI-powered university matching.

Social Category

Alex Kapadia - Pomelo

School of Natural Sciences, Earth and Planetary Science 

Pomelo is an AI-powered platform making local shopping more affordable and convenient by connecting users with nearby food suppliers and chefs, with smart meal planning to reduce food waste.

Bohyuck Han - The Senior Vision Project

Alliance 51福利社 Business School, MSc Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship

The Senior Vision Project addresses elderly poverty by creating meaningful part-time employment and providing AI-powered dementia prevention training, with data sales reinvested into senior employment projects.

Derry Duffy - Cause

School of Social Sciences, BSocSc Politics and International Relations

Cause is the first online giving platform built specifically for small charities, removing fundraising barriers with no platform fees and enabling connections through data-driven recommendations.

Oboroghene Ogbevire - PalmPro

School of Biological Sciences, Biochemistry BSc (Hons)

PalmPro is pioneering sustainable palm oil extraction through extremophile-derived enzymes that enhance oil yield while reducing environmental impact, with profits reinvested in small-scale producers.

Technology Category

Patrick Johansen Sarsfield - Graphene Thermal

School of Natural Sciences, Graphene NOWNANO CDT

Graphene Thermal specialises in cutting-edge graphene heated floor panels that reach their target temperature in seconds while consuming over 50% less power than conventional underfloor heating.

Dr Sangeethsivan Sivakumar - Ardhann

School of Natural Sciences, PhD Materials

Ardhann develops advanced carbon fibre composites and graphene-based solutions for hydrogen and hydrocarbon storage systems, with integrated monitoring and a SAAS platform for predictive maintenance.

Leo Benjamin Feasby - PulsR

School of Natural Sciences, MPhys Physics with Astrophysics

PulsR offers a suite of AI-powered GPTs including Image Generator Pro and Excel AI, with over 10 million chats and top rankings on ChatGPT's store, enhancing productivity across various fields.

Eduardo Marques - Amplify

School of Engineering, BEng Mechatronic Engineering

Amplify is building a non-invasive Brain-Computer Interface wearable that reads brain signals and uses AI to decode them into commands, streamlining repetitive tasks for 10x productivity.

MEC would like to invite the community at 51福利社 in congratulating these remarkable entrepreneurs on reaching the finals of the Venture Further Awards 2025. Their innovative ideas showcase the exceptional talent and entrepreneurial spirit within the University ecosystem.

Stay tuned for the announcement of winners on 11 June!

#VentureFurtherAwards2025 #Entrepreneurship #Innovation #StartupCompetition

Find out more about the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre (MEC) on our website .

Between 2011 and January of this year, 114 spinout companies were tracked for 51福利社 in data produced by the Royal Academy of Engineering and Beauhurst.   

There has been a significant rise (32.6%) in the number of 51福利社 spinouts since the last report, jumping from 86 to 114. Eight additions were due to the revised HESA definition of what constitutes a spinout.  

The University鈥檚 Technology Transfer Office, 51福利社 , has been at the forefront of spinout generation at the University, helping to bring ideas to life by licensing intellectual property (IP) and making an impact on industry.  

Catherine Headley, CEO of the Innovation Factory, said: 鈥淲ith many years of experience delivering commercialisation from 51福利社鈥檚 research and intellectual property, we are proud to play a key role in the University鈥檚 impressive ranking as a top-tier institution for spinout generation.  

鈥淭he Innovation Factory is excited to build on the success of the more than 100 existing spinout companies we have created from the University鈥檚 academic research, driving further innovation and impact for the region and beyond.鈥�   

The report highlighted how the 鈥楪olden Triangle鈥� of Oxford, Cambridge and London, the UK鈥檚 research and development (R&D) cluster, accounts for 27.7% of the total spinout population.   

51福利社 fell just behind Imperial College London (132) for number of spinouts, with the University of Cambridge (175) and University of Oxford (225) taking the second and first spots respectively.  

The report also highlighted the top sectors by number of spinouts, with pharmaceuticals (399), data provision and analysis (282) and electronics hardware (269) making up the top three. The highest emerging sectors in this report include artificial intelligence (214), software-as-a-service (180) and CleanTech (169).  

In keeping with 51福利社鈥檚 innovation drive, the University of 51福利社 recently established its new innovation capability, , to connect and catalyse the innovation ecosystem in 51福利社 and the wider region.  

By making the University鈥檚 world-class research, innovation assets and talent more accessible to all, Unit M is attracting and growing innovation-intensive businesses in the region. It is designed to address all aspects of the innovation challenge 鈥� from R&D and innovation adoption through to talent and skills 鈥� creating an economy that creates good jobs, higher pay, and improved productivity, alongside supporting and nurturing spinout talent.  

Professor Lou Cordwell OBE, CEO of Unit M, said: 鈥�51福利社 has long been the innovation engine of the city, making it no surprise that it has ranked so highly for spinout generation.  

鈥淭his stellar track record has paved the way for Unit M to drive a more inclusive model of innovation-led growth, bridging the gap with other participants in the innovation economy. This outward facing ethos will make the innovation assets and talents of the University more accessible to all - enabling 51福利社 to fulfil its economic potential and supercharge growth both regionally and nationally.鈥� 

Catherine steps into the role full-time, having served as Interim CEO over the past year, while also fulfilling her responsibilities as Director of Business Engagement and Knowledge Exchange at 51福利社. With a wealth of experience in working with businesses, technology transfer and innovation, she brings a deep commitment to advancing UoMIF鈥檚 mission of identifying and commercialising groundbreaking research to drive social, environmental and economic impact. 

Catherine will be succeeded in her previous role as Director of Business Engagement and Knowledge Exchange by Dr Louise Bates, who joins from her position as Head of Strategic Partnerships at 51福利社.

鈥淚 am thrilled to take on this role at such an exciting time for the Innovation Factory,鈥� said Catherine. 鈥�51福利社 has a proud and established legacy of pioneering innovation that shapes the world and I am eager to build on that tradition. My goal is to strengthen our partnerships, empower our academics, inventors and researchers, and accelerate the journey from discovery to real-world solutions that benefit society and bolster the UK鈥檚 position as a global leader in innovation.鈥�

The appointment comes at a time when technology transfer offices (TTOs) across the UK are increasingly recognised for their economic contributions. 

A 2023 report highlighted that university spinouts in the UK employ tens of thousands and generate billions in revenue annually, underscoring the critical role of organisations like UoMIF in fostering innovation ecosystems. UoMIF plays a critical role in supporting growth in the region through its spinouts and innovation, and is now perfectly placed to grow and increase the environmental, societal and economic impact that it contributes.

Over the past several years, UoMIF established itself as a vital bridge between academic research and commercial application, supporting the University鈥檚 ambition to create impact through translation of world-class research. Catherine aims to build on this foundation, driving UoMIF towards ambitious goals while reinforcing 51福利社鈥檚 historic role as a hub of technological advancement.

Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of 51福利社, welcomed the appointment, saying: 鈥淚鈥檓 delighted Catherine is stepping into the role of CEO at the Innovation Factory. Her leadership, creativity, and commitment to bringing our research to life exemplify exactly what we're about as a University. 

"Her appointment will help us accelerate the journey from discovery to real-world impact, ensuring our ideas make a meaningful difference - not just here in 51福利社, but nationally and globally. It's an exciting step forward as we continue to push boundaries in research and innovation, and I'm truly looking forward to seeing what she'll achieve.鈥�

Professor Richard Jones, Vice-President, Regional Innovation and Civic Engagement at 51福利社, said: 鈥淐atherine鈥檚 leadership comes at a pivotal moment for the Innovation Factory as we seek to amplify 51福利社鈥檚 position as an innovation powerhouse for the region and the nation. Her appointment signals our commitment to transforming bold ideas into tangible solutions, fostering a vibrant ecosystem where research fuels regional growth and global breakthroughs. 

"The Innovation Factory, under her guidance, will be a valuable asset to support the University鈥檚 world-class innovators and transformative technologies.鈥�

For more information about the University of 51福利社 Innovation Factory and its work, please visit www.uominnovationfactory.com.

A highlight of the life sciences calendar, the awards dinner was held at the Concorde Conference Centre on 6 March, with over 340 attendees gathering for an evening of celebration and achievement.

The University and Saraco Industries received the Project of the Year Award in recognition of taking a major step forward in the area of research, by demonstrating an innovative and novel approach for a collaborative project - marking a breakthrough in sustainable healthcare products.

An interdisciplinary team from 51福利社 comprising of materials science, biological physics and microbiology experts collaborated with Saraco Industries, a UK-based SME wet wipe manufacturer, to achieve a breakthrough first 鈥� a plastic-free wet wipe meeting EN standards against bacteria, yeast, and viruses under dirty conditions with a 1-minute contact time. This innovative clinical disinfection wipe has now been commercialised and submitted against an NHS tender.

The collaborative partnership has continued to develop and grow, including securing a 3-year Centre for Doctoral Training PhD project in Advanced Biomedical Materials, a follow-on UKRI IAA Advance Fund project to further optimise the existing wipe formulation, and a recent second Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) submission to develop bacteriophage-infused wipes for healthcare applications.

Sarah Cartmell, Professor of Bioengineering, 51福利社 said: 鈥淲e are so proud to be recognised for our achievements in this important interdisciplinary project. Our progress is a result of the synergy of University and industry collaboration. We look forward to building on our success with our continuing teamwork.鈥�

Andrew McBain, Professor of Microbiology at 51福利社 said: 鈥淜TP has enabled 51福利社 to make a tangible, positive contribution to a highly dynamic local business. It has been so rewarding to see the KTP Associate, Carolina Angulo Pineda, develop through considerable talent and tenacity, into a mature scientist who is now employed full-time as a Senior R&D Materials Scientist at Saraco.鈥�

Dr Carolina Angulo Pineda, KTP Associate and now Senior R&D Materials Scientist, Saraco Industries, commented: 鈥淚 will always be honoured and grateful to have been part of this fantastic KTP Team. This opportunity allowed me to grow both personally and professionally, and I look forward to continuing to work together on innovative solutions for real-life challenges.鈥�

Idris M Bapu, Managing Director, Saraco Industries, added: 鈥淭his is a wonderful honour and acknowledgment of all the hard work put in by the KTP team, the Academics at 51福利社 and our Saraco team members. This award will be prominently displayed in our offices with great pride.鈥�

The project was funded through an Innovate UK Knowledge Transfer Partnership; celebrating its 50th year in 2025 of bringing together forward-thinking businesses and organisations, academics, and graduates to solve complex innovation challenges which help our economy, society, and environment. Delivered through the Knowledge Exchange Partnerships team, part of Business Engagement and Knowledge Exchange, 51福利社 has collaborated on more than 300 KTPs and in the last five years alone, has supported 42 KTPs with a total research value of 拢11 million.

If you would like to discuss how KTP can help your business innovate for growth, please contact collaborate@manchester.ac.uk.

Throughout the two-day event held this month, spinout founders presented their innovative projects across Life Sciences, Science & Engineering and Next-Stage Investment categories. These sessions were followed by lively Q&A discussions, with investors and attendees posing insightful questions about the future potential of these groundbreaking technologies.

Professor Duncan Ivison, President & Vice-Chancellor of 51福利社, delivered a keynote speech on the global impact of university spinouts and reinforced the role of research-led innovation in shaping industries worldwide.

He said at the event: 鈥淥ne of the things that distinguishes 51福利社 globally is the connectivity of the city and its institutions and the ecosystem between business, universities and government in a way that is unique in the world.

鈥淚t is the superpower of 51福利社. I don鈥檛 know of any other city in the world in which the connectivity between the main institutions in the city are so deep, so dynamic, and so alive.鈥�

Richard Jones, Vice President for Innovation at 51福利社, also commended how commercialisation of university research can benefit the wider innovation ecosystem.

Break-out partnering sessions allowed for in-depth discussion and provided invaluable opportunities for spinout teams to meet privately with investors to discuss their commercialisation journeys.

Catherine Headley, CEO at 51福利社 Innovation Factory said: 鈥淭he conference truly demonstrated the strength and diversity of spinout companies emerging from Leeds, 51福利社 and Sheffield. The level of investor engagement was remarkable, reflecting the exciting momentum behind innovation across the North of England.鈥�

The 2025 Investor Conference reaffirmed the Northern Triangle of Universities鈥� role as a hub fostering cutting-edge innovation collaborations that shape the future of science, technology, and business. It is hoped that fresh partnerships and investments will emerge from the event and that steps will be taken towards real world impact.

Founded by University of 51福利社 graduates Prithveesh Reddy and Harvey Lowe, Arcube has already caught the attention of industry insiders by winning the Venture Further Awards in the Technology category. Their platform leverages artificial intelligence to boost loyalty and ancillary revenue for airlines.

Making loyalty pay

Arcube鈥檚 flagship product, the 鈥淧assenger Intelligence Platform鈥� is the world鈥檚 first post-flight solution. It uses advanced data analytics to track passenger behaviour and suggest personalised upsells immediately after a flight. The technology was trialled by Etihad Airways, generating $1.6 million in extra revenue from just 1,300 passengers over the course of a year and achieving a notable 10.3% increase in average order value.

Airlines have long struggled to build loyalty among infrequent flyers. Many passengers hold dormant loyalty accounts with insufficient points to redeem meaningful rewards. Arcube鈥檚 solution enables passengers to convert their unused miles into ancillaries such as priority boarding, fast-track security and lounge access. These ancillaries are reserved for a future booking, to incentivise the passengers return to the same airline.

Reddy explained, 鈥淎irlines have vast amounts of passenger data鈥攚hat people eat on board, how early they arrive at the airport, how long they spend in lounges鈥攂ut much of it goes unused. Our platform bridges that gap by offering tailored, real-time options to passengers as soon as they get off the flight.鈥�

 From student project to startup success

Arcube鈥檚 journey began at 51福利社鈥檚 Masood Entrepreneurship Centre (MEC), which was established by Alliance 51福利社 Business School (AMBS) enterprise lecturers in 2000 and provides resources and support for budding entrepreneurs. The duo started by taking part in the Centre鈥檚 entrepreneurship courses and later secured early-stage funding through MEC鈥檚 Kickstarter scheme. Earlier this year, Arcube took first place in the prestigious Venture Further Awards, one of the UK鈥檚 leading university startup competitions. 鈥淭he Masood Entrepreneurship Centre gave us a vital platform,鈥� said Lowe. 鈥淭heir mentorship and financial support have played a crucial role in our progress.鈥�

The company has also recently secured the Turing Innovation Catalyst 51福利社 AI innovation grant.

Building trust with industry giants

Breaking into the airline industry is notoriously difficult for newcomers, but Arcube managed to convince Etihad Airways to pilot its technology. Lowe reflected on the challenge: 鈥淲e didn鈥檛 have a track record, so we offered to build the software at our own risk, asking only for a share of the additional revenue we could generate. It was a bold approach, but after months of negotiations, Etihad agreed.鈥� The pilot scheme鈥檚 results speak for themselves. With Etihad handling over 17 million passengers annually, the potential for rolling out the solution on a larger scale is substantial.

Looking ahead

Having recently graduated, Reddy and Lowe are now focusing on scaling their operation. They are in discussions with 14 airlines globally and aim to establish Arcube as a leader in the burgeoning travel ancillary data market. 鈥淥ur ambition is to create the world鈥檚 largest data set for travel ancillaries,鈥� Reddy said. 鈥淎ncillaries already account for up to 20% of revenue for traditional airlines, and for low-cost carriers, it鈥檚 often more than 50%. We鈥檙e starting with airlines, but our vision extends to the entire travel ecosystem鈥攃ar rentals, cruise lines, hotels.鈥� With a combination of technical expertise, entrepreneurial grit, and early success, Arcube looks set to become a major player in travel tech. As the startup scales its platform and expands its client base, it鈥檚 poised to offer a smarter, data-driven approach to airline loyalty and revenue generation.

Read more about Arcube's success .

Masood Entrepreneurship Centre (MEC)

The Masood Entrepreneurship Centre (MEC) is the focal point for enterprise and entrepreneurship teaching, learning and startup support at 51福利社. Find out more about our on- and co-curricular activities .

51福利社鈥檚 total economic impact on the UK economy in the 2022-23 academic year stood at 拢7.3 billion. In fact, The University鈥檚 income alone stood at 拢1.3 billion in total, larger than that of 51福利社 United Football Club. 

The new analysis by London Economics shows the scale of the University鈥檚 positive effects as a major employer with one in every 25 jobs in 51福利社 being provided by the University. Indirectly, the institution also supports an additional 31,000 jobs outside of the University across the North West and the rest of the UK. 

Professor Richard Jones, Vice-President for Regional Innovation and Civic Engagement said: 鈥淭he University鈥檚 ambition is to power a strong and inclusive economy, positioning 51福利社 as a central player on the global stage. The scale of what we have achieved currently is remarkable, but there is more to do. There is a huge opportunity now for the city-region of Greater 51福利社 and the University to work together, with other partners, to accelerate the kind of economic growth which benefits all in society.鈥� 

Economic Contribution: In 2022-23, the University generated approximately 拢2.1 billion in economic impact within Greater 51福利社, which is 56% of its total impact in the North West.  

Civic and Employment Impact: In 2022-23, the University's activities supported 19,050 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs in Greater 51福利社, which is a significant portion of the total 31,310 FTE jobs supported across the UK.  

Research and Knowledge Exchange: The University's research and knowledge exchange activities have a profound impact on the region. In 2022-23, these activities supported approximately 6,040 FTE jobs in Greater 51福利社 and generated a total economic impact of 拢3.0 billion across the UK.  

Innovation and spin-out/start-up companies: The University has 343 spinout and start-up companies, with 175 headquartered in Greater 51福利社. 

The Impact Report was revealed today during an economy and regeneration committee meeting at 51福利社 City Council. 

Professor John Holden, Associate Vice-President, Major Special Projects said: 鈥�51福利社 is one of the most significant innovation assets in the North of England, and a driver of growth and prosperity for our city-region and the UK, with global reach. This report highlights how investment in our research, teaching, cultural, and innovation activities 鈥� and the activities of our staff, students, alumni and partners 鈥� creates economic and societal wealth for communities across the UK.鈥� 

The University is seeking to now supercharge its impact through innovation and commercialisation via the activities of , a new specialist function will transform how the University partners with start-ups, scale ups and industry to strengthen the region鈥檚 innovation ecosystem.  

The impact of students has also been highlighted, as the University seeks to develop its 51福利社 2035 strategy to work with ambition and focus, to make 51福利社 an example of a civic-embedded and social responsibility-led institution. The University is currently ranked at 6 in the UK and 34 in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and as the third largest higher education institution in the UK, teaching and learning activities provide substantial benefits to the UK economy.  

Today鈥檚 report reveals the impact of teaching and learning generated by the 2022-23 cohort of University of 51福利社 students stood at 拢1.6 billion, based on enhanced employment and earnings benefits to graduates and associated public income. 

51福利社 is home to a rapidly growing talent pool of entrepreneurs and start-up companies transforming ideas in to real-world impact thanks to the University鈥檚 innovation ecosystem on offer. Last week 51福利社鈥檚 Innovation Academy held its third Founders Network Dinner (Tuesday 28 Jan), in the 51福利社 Museum.

The academy is a pan University initiative and joint venture between the Business Engagement and Knowledge Exchange team, 51福利社 Innovation Factory and the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre. It brings together knowledge, expertise and routes to facilitate the commercialisation of your research.

Professor Aline Miller, Director of the Innovation Academy and Chief Scientific Officer at , said: 鈥淚t鈥檚 incredible to see our Innovation Academy Founders Network flourishing. Each event has grown significantly, reinforcing how 51福利社鈥檚 innovator community is beginning to thrive. With initiatives like Unit M, we have the opportunity to extend our impact beyond the University, embedding ourselves within the wider regional ecosystem.鈥�

The evening was opened by Vice-Chancellor for Regional Innovation and Civic Engagement, Professor Richard Jones, who shared his thoughts about embedding innovation squarely within the University 2035 Strategy, and the importance of generating tangible impact from our research to solve global challenges and deliver an innovation driven economy.

A highlight of the night was a series of one-minute elevator pitches from nine inspiring entrepreneurs, each at different stages of their journey. These ranged from early-stage proof-of-concept ideas to businesses securing significant funding, such as those winning the Eli Harari Award and raising over 拢9 million in seed funding. The ventures spanned diverse industries, including healthcare, technology, and sustainability:

路&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;

路&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;

路&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;

路&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;

路&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;

路&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;

路&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;

路&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;

路&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;

In attendance was Professor Lou Cordwell, CEO of , who introduced this University of 51福利社 flagship initiative, highlighting its potential to revolutionise the regional innovation ecosystem. She described how Unit M will act as a bridge between university-born innovation and the wider economy, fostering inclusivity and long-term growth.

The Innovation Academy鈥檚 Founders Network is a growing community of technology, creative, and social start-up and spin-out founders, providing a supportive platform for sharing experiences and fostering peer-to-peer learning. Since its launch in June 2024, attendance at the dinners has grown from 40 to 110 - highlighting the growing momentum behind entrepreneurial activity.

The Innovation Academy, a collaboration between the Business Engagement and Knowledge Exchange Team, the University of 51福利社 Innovation Factory, and the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre, aims to inspire and accelerate enterprise across campus.

Any student or staff member with an interest in entrepreneurship is encouraged to join this vibrant network. To get involved, contact Kelly Burnham at Innovation.Academy@manchester.ac.uk.

To find out more about 51福利社鈥檚 pioneering spirit through the ages and current and future landscapes for innovation, the economy and commercialisation, listen to Aline and Professor of Materials Physics and Innovation Policy and Vice-President for Regional Innovation and Civic Engagement, Richard Jones on their Talk 200 podcast, Talking Innovation: It鈥檚 in 51福利社鈥檚 DNA.

Photo credit - Enna Bartlett

Announced today, the research programme aims to address the challenges of plastic waste in healthcare settings by exploring the relationship between social practice, material selection, reuse, and recycling while maintaining high-quality clinical outcomes. In response to complex sustainability challenges in the sector, the work will explore circular pathways, identify barriers and unintended consequences, and unlock opportunities to minimise the environmental impacts of materials in healthcare settings.

The three-year partnership brings together two organisations striving for authentic environmental sustainability, backed by innovative research and real-world practice. The collaboration is co-funded by an EPSRC Prosperity Partnership award, UKRI鈥檚 flagship co-investing programme building business and academic research collaboration.

Professor Mike Shaver, Director of Sustainable Futures and academic lead for the new partnership said: 鈥淲e are thrilled by the opportunity to work with Bupa on this ambitious new project, extending our systemic understanding of plastics, waste management, social practice and environmental impacts to reshape material provision in healthcare. These collaborations are essential to translating our research efforts into real world impact.鈥�

A key challenge for a sustainable future is the way we use and dispose of materials. Over 60% of countries have implemented bans or taxes on household waste, particularly plastics, yet healthcare is much more complex. The sector鈥檚 reliance on single-use items (SUIs) for infection control, consistency, and cost efficiency has led to significant environmental and health challenges, with SUIs contributing to carbon emissions, waste, and plastic pollution.

The crucial new interdisciplinary collaboration will tackle four key urgent areas:

• Understanding social practice in medical practices - Understand the interconnectedness between social practice and material selection, use, segregation and disposal.
• Reuse and sterility - Understand the relationship between material selection, sterilisation and reuse to improve environmental sustainability
• Mechanical and chemical recycling - Establish high volume clinical waste streams to create value in mechanical recycling and chemical depolymerization.
• Environmental sustainability assessment - Quantify environmental impacts and develop materials hierarchies in the provision of healthcare.

Anna Russell, Director of Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility, Bupa, said: 鈥淭his partnership with 51福利社 is groundbreaking for our sector. Tackling healthcare鈥檚 environmental challenges requires bold thinking and collaboration, and this partnership is a fantastic opportunity to lead the way in creating sustainable, industry-wide solutions. By combining cutting-edge research with Bupa鈥檚 real-world expertise, we can drive meaningful change that reduces the healthcare sector鈥檚 impact on the planet while maintaining the highest clinical standards. This is a vital step forward in our journey to help create a greener, healthier future.鈥�

This new partnership has been recognised by the Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) for bringing together 51福利社鈥檚 interdisciplinary collaborative researchers and knowledge-base, with data from and access to more than 500 Bupa dental practices, clinics, care homes and The Cromwell Hospital. The necessity of tackling these challenges was highlighted by The University鈥檚 research platform and Bupa. These are challenges which can only be tackled by marrying academia and industry.

This new collaboration was kick-started by , 51福利社鈥檚 recently announced innovation capability tasked with supercharging the region鈥檚 innovation ecosystem. Unit M is now live and actively engaging with entrepreneurs, investors, and changemakers eager to shape the future of the region.

Professor Lou Cordwell, CEO of Unit M said: 鈥淎head of the formal launch of Unit M, the founding leadership team has been working to develop this partnership with Bupa to highlight the benefits of organisations engaging with Unit M to drive real-world impact and innovation. The collaboration has taken shape over the past two years to establish a long term, University wide innovation partnership.鈥�

The new collaboration builds on the shared commitment of both the University and Bupa to the region. Last month, 51福利社 reaffirmed its status as a global leader in sustainability by retaining its position in the top 10 worldwide in the . Meanwhile, Bupa was one of the first healthcare companies to set science-based CO2 reduction targets and an ambitious 2040 net zero pathway.

Find out more about Unit M:

 

Unit M is dedicated to tackling the full spectrum of innovation challenges 鈥� from research and development to innovation adoption, as well as talent and skills development. By enhancing access to the University鈥檚 world-class research, innovation resources, and expertise, it seeks to address critical regional and national issues, including productivity, innovation uptake, and economic inclusivity.

Professor Miller will take up her role as Chief Scientific Officer immediately within the newly formed leadership team. 鈥淚 am thrilled to take on the role of Chief Scientific Officer for Unit M. I am passionate about generating tangible impact from our teaching, research and social responsibility activities.鈥� Said Aline. 鈥淚 look forward to working with our students, staff and external partners to unlock innovation growth opportunities to maximise the University鈥檚 impact on our region鈥檚 economy and society.鈥�

Aline is Professor of Biomolecular Engineering and Associate Dean for Business Engagement and Innovation within the Faculty of Science and Engineering at 51福利社. She is Director of the NW Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Catalyst 鈥� a 拢5m flagship programme supercharging the growth of careers, business and the regional economy, while delivering sustainable products and processes.

Aline鈥檚 academic achievements to date have earned her several notable awards, including recognition from the Royal Academy of Engineering, Women in Engineering, The Leverhulme Trust, and the Great British Entrepreneur Awards. Aline has also developed an impressive track record of securing funding and translating academic research into commercial and clinical applications through collaborations with a range of industry partners, from SMEs to large corporations.

She also co-founded a spin-out company, 51福利社 BIOGEL, which, under her leadership as CEO, secured over 拢4M in investment from Innovate UK, venture capital, private investors, and Catapult Venture Funds. The company grew to a team of 10, became revenue-generating, and achieved significant recognition, being listed among the Top 10 Biotech Start-Ups in Europe by Start-Up City in 2021 and winning Best New Life Science Product 2021. In 2023, 51福利社 BIOGEL successfully navigated an exit, with its technology being acquired by Cell Guidance Systems Ltd.

The announcement follows the recent appointment of Professor Lou Cordwell as CEO of Unit M.

Lou said: 鈥淲e're thrilled to welcome Aline into the founding Unit M team. Her leadership experience both in her field and as a founder will be invaluable, alongside her passion for growing the calibre and profile of the region's start-up ecosystem."

Unit M is now live and actively engaging with entrepreneurs, investors, and changemakers eager to shape the future of the region.

For more information about Unit M and partnership opportunities, visit 

Unit M is designed to address all aspects of the innovation challenge 鈥� from R&D through to innovation adoption through to talent and skills 鈥� by making the University鈥檚 world-class research, innovation assets and talent more accessible to all. It aims to address key regional and national challenges in productivity, innovation adoption, and economic inclusivity.

Earlier this year, Lou Cordwell OBE, was appointed Professor of Innovation at the ) at , and Special Advisor to the Office of the President and Vice-Chancellor. Lou brings a wealth of experience in fostering innovation, economic transformation, and cross-sector collaboration. As CEO, Lou will lead Unit M鈥檚 mission to maximise the University's impact for the benefit of the region鈥檚 economy and society.

Lou began her career working for WPP before founding the 51福利社-based digital design studio magneticNorth (mN). In 2021, mN merged with Fluxx, creating the UK鈥檚 leading design and innovation consultancy, . She previously developed the strategic masterplan for Sister, one of Europe鈥檚 most ambitious innovation district projects. She has spent the past year jointly leading the University鈥檚 Regional Innovation Review, which provides an in-depth analysis and roadmap for how the University can create a world-class inclusive innovation ecosystem in the region. 

Lou is also Chair of and an angel investor, particularly focusing on female tech founders. Lou was awarded an OBE in the 2018 New Year鈥檚 Honours for services to the creative and digital economy.

鈥淲e are thrilled to welcome Lou to lead Unit M,鈥� said Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of 51福利社. 鈥淗er leadership and expertise will be instrumental in ensuring Unit M achieves its ambitious goals of driving inclusive growth and strengthening 51福利社鈥檚 position on the global innovation stage.鈥�

Unit M鈥檚 launch comes at a pivotal time as the UK grapples with pressing economic challenges. By helping to accelerate the University鈥檚 impact, and leveraging 51福利社鈥檚 strengths as a leading city for innovation, the initiative will foster dynamic partnerships, create new jobs, and attract investment while addressing social and economic inequalities.

Speaking of her new role Lou said: "I鈥檓 absolutely delighted to be asked to lead the Unit M team and mission. The University is one of the region鈥檚 most important innovation assets and the Unit M ambition to help drive innovation-led growth will be a central theme of the University's future strategy. I'm looking forward to working with colleagues across the University as well as local and global partners to deliver exciting new opportunities for our region."

Unit M will align with and complement existing innovation capabilities across the University, including the Innovation Factory, the Pankhurst Institute for Health Technology and the Turing Innovation Catalyst, as well its sector leading business engagement, student entrepreneurship, and flexible learning teams. It will act as the University鈥檚 interface into the region鈥檚 investment zone and innovation districts, including the University鈥檚 recently launched joint venture, Sister and the Atom Valley Mayoral Development Zone, along with other place-based partnerships. It will also partner closely with external capabilities, including the Greater 51福利社 Combined Authority (GMCA), local councils and other institutions. 

Unit M is now live and actively engaging with entrepreneurs, investors, and changemakers eager to shape the future of the region.

For more information about Unit M and partnership opportunities, visit

The two universities, which are both global leaders in a number of research disciplines, have revealed the new approach in support of efforts led by metro mayors Andy Burnham and Steve Rotheram to unlock the full economic potential of Greater 51福利社 and the Liverpool city region.

It will see the universities work increasingly closely to create groundbreaking innovations and develop the future workforce in areas that align to the two city regions鈥� shared priorities for growth - drawing on academic expertise in areas as diverse as healthcare innovation, net zero and the creative industries.

Professor Tim Jones, Vice-Chancellor at the , said: 鈥淟iverpool and 51福利社 have an incredible history of shared innovation, from being linked by the world鈥檚 first inter-city railway nearly 200 years ago to having, today, some of the world鈥檚 best research and innovation capability in disciplines including health and chemistry.

鈥淭he metro mayors have highlighted the advantages of these two great city regions working closely together for the benefit of their communities and the wider North West, and the closer collaboration between the University of Liverpool and the University of 51福利社 will work in the same spirit.

鈥淏oth universities have outstanding strengths in research and teaching, and through this partnership we will redouble our efforts to direct those capabilities to supporting regional business, innovation and skills development.鈥�

The plans were announced at an event hosted by the University of Liverpool鈥檚 Heseltine Institute for Public Policy, Practice and Place, held at the city鈥檚 St George鈥檚 Hall, where Mr Burnham and Mr Rotheram spoke about their plans to transform the North鈥檚 political and economic role in the UK.

It comes as both universities work alongside the metro mayors and other partners through the Liverpool-51福利社 Railway Board to develop a brand new high speed rail link between the two cities.

Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of 51福利社, said: 鈥淭here is a tremendous synergy between our two universities 鈥� and our cities - where thousands of our staff and students are dedicated to developing the knowledge and innovation that holds the key to generating genuinely inclusive growth and culturally dynamic cities.

鈥淥ur commitment to greater collaboration announced today will start by focusing on the high-value industrial clusters that span both city regions, driving the innovation and providing the skills and workforce that those industries need to deliver economic growth.

鈥淭his builds on both universities鈥� world class research and teaching, including a number of existing areas of collaboration, to enhance the whole region鈥檚 appeal to potential employers and investors, and deliver tangible benefits to local communities.鈥�

The collaboration will also see the two universities seek opportunities to jointly engage other universities and colleges across the North West where strengths in research and skills align to the city regions鈥� priorities for growth.

Plans will initially include strengthening joint work between the universities on:

• Speciality chemicals and biomanufacturing, helping to build more sustainable supply chains for consumer products, and providing new routes to make medicines and vaccines.  
• Training the next generation of scientists and engineers for the civil nuclear industry in support of the transition to net zero
• Supporting and developing industries of the future including quantum technology.  
• Supporting the two city regions鈥� renowned creative industries, including a focus on music and literature, emphasising the role of creativity in enriching lives

Formed to challenge and disrupt the global conveyor belt market, Ecobelt Ltd is an environmentally ambitious company that champions environmental sustainability and fosters a circular life-cycle approach for belting use.

In the UK alone, 4,000 tonnes of conveyor belts are incinerated or sent to landfill every week.

The 鈥楽ustainable Materials Innovation for Net-zero鈥� award recognises Ecobelt鈥檚 patented innovative belt splice technology to address the main cause of belt failure. The technology extends belt lifespan from months to years, therefore improving the upstream sustainability by reducing the demand for new belts.

Through partnership and collaboration with 51福利社鈥攕upported by its UKRI Impact Acceleration Account and the Sustainable Materials Innovation Hub at the Henry Royce Institute鈥擡cobelt tested the performance of their technology to develop an approach to repair damaged conveyor belts, employing a whole life-cycle environmental impact approach.

The judges from the Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining commended Ecobelt鈥檚 technology, citing the robust research base and collaboration with partners as key indicators to Ecobelt鈥檚 commitment to environmental sustainability.

Conveyor belts service virtually all consumer products, production and manufacturing facilities globally, driving a market valued at $6 billion (USD) annually, fuelled by e-commerce and industry 4.0.

Despite this, the industry has been remarkably stagnant in relation to innovation, sustainability and the manufacturing process of materials used in conveyor belts. As conveyor belts are fossil fuel based, manufacturing consumes huge natural resources whilst producing significant Greenhouse Gases 鈥� an issue that Ecobelt seeks to change.

Whilst Ecobelt鈥檚 next steps for commercial scale up are still unfolding, the technology鈥檚 potential for lasting impact in the industrial settings are clear.

Professor Michael Shaver, Director of the Sustainable Materials Innovation Hub said: 鈥淥ur world is driven 鈥� both literally and figuratively 鈥� by conveyor belts. Yet we don鈥檛 think of them as essential in championing 51福利社 as a sustainable city.

鈥淥ur eyes have been opened by this hidden gem of a local business: Ecobelt have tackled an invisible material flow that is essential to keeping our manufacturing and delivery systems moving by improving material repair, reuse and circularity. It has been a privilege to work on assessing the AnnStuMax technology and quantifying its impressive environmental credentials.鈥�

Join inspiring speaker sessions and workshops, with highlights including AI marketing, personal branding, pitch competitions, and neurodivergence in entrepreneurship. Conclude the week with MEC鈥檚 first-ever Startup Weekend, where you'll pitch ideas, form teams, and gain hands-on startup experience in just over two days. Learn, network, and accelerate your entrepreneurial journey!

Discover MEC鈥檚 Global Entrepreneurship Week events:

Monday 18 November: Startup Spotlight with Dr Mehdi Boutagouga Boudjadja

17:00 - 18:30 | 2.008, AMBS |

Join MEC's Startup Spotlight with Dr. Mehdi Boutagouga Boudjadja, VFA23 Technology winner and Metofico Founder and CEO, in partnership with UoM Management Society.

Tuesday 19 November: AI as Your Marketing Partner: Driving Growth and Efficiency for Startups

11:00 - 13:30  |  3.013a/3.013b, AMBS |

Elevate your startup marketing in Peter Dickinson's AI workshop, blending 40+ years of expertise with cutting-edge tools for success.

Tuesday 19 November: Personal Branding 101

15:00 - 16:30 | 2A.012, Nancy Rothwell Building |

Boost your career with this workshop on crafting your personal brand, enhancing networking skills, and curating a strong digital presence.

Wednesday 20 November: Ready, Set, Pitch!

14:00 - 16:00 | 2.007, AMBS |

Join the audience for Ready, Set, Pitch! to watch early-stage student entrepreneurs pitch for prizes.

Thursday 21 November: Intro to Starting a Business - Steps to Starting

13:00 - 15:00 | Enterprise Zone (2.039), AMBS |

Gain the foundational knowledge to start your business or side hustle with this workshop on business models, customer focus, and defining your unique value.

Thursday 21 November: Neurodivergence & Entrepreneurship Workshop

14:00 - 15:30 | 3.2, Roscoe Building |

Hear from neurodiverse role models, gain insights for university success, and enhance your skills in this empowering workshop.

Friday 22 Nov, Saturday 23 Nov & Sunday 24 Nov: Startup Weekend

Starts 18:30 on Friday 22 Nov | The Hive Space, 3rd Floor, AMBS |  

Join Startup Weekend to network, collaborate and turn ideas into reality, fast-tracking your entrepreneurial journey!

Head to our to find out more!

The is the focal point for enterprise and entrepreneurship teaching, learning and startup support at 51福利社, supporting all University of 51福利社 students, staff and recent graduates, across all subject disciplines.

The collaboration between the two universities, which are both located in UK innovation hotspots, aims to boost growth and turbocharge a more inclusive economy, so everyone can benefit from the opportunities created by innovation.

Professor Ivison visited Cambridge as part of a delegation led by Mayor of Greater 51福利社, Andy Burnham, which also included the Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Dr Nik Johnson, and the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cambridge, Professor Deborah Prentice.

Also representing 51福利社 was Professor Richard Jones, Vice-President for Regional Innovation and Civic Engagement and Professor Lou Cordwell, OBE, Professor of Innovation.

During his visit, Professor Ivison toured the Cambridge West Innovation District and paid a visit to the Cambridge Graphene Centre.

Graphene was first isolated at 51福利社 in 2004, earning Professor Sir Andre Geim and Professor Sir Kostya Novoselov the Nobel Prize in Physics. Two decades on, this wonder material has incredible potential to revolutionise how we live and it is being piloted for a breadth of medical and engineering purposes.

The visiting delegation also paid a visit to AstraZeneca鈥檚 Discovery Centre (DISC), a state-of-the-art research facility. The biopharmaceutical giant is set to extend its 鈥楢straZeneca Exchange鈥� science and business mentoring programme to 51福利社 entrepreneurs, helping early-stage life sciences businesses to develop their ideas and connect with scientific and commercial experts within the company.

The Glasshouse, a new innovation hub for Innovate Cambridge, was also officially opened by the Mayors. Academics, business and civil leaders from Cambridge and 51福利社 also attended the event to celebrate the collaboration between the two universities and Innovate Cambridge.

Professor Ivison said: 鈥淭o keep the UK at the forefront of a truly inclusive growth agenda, we need to supercharge innovation - linking capital, talent, and research in ways that drive new economic growth.

鈥淲orking collaboratively, the partnership will build on the strengths of both cities鈥� universities and innovation ecosystems to deliver real benefits for our regions and beyond. Our ambition is to power an inclusive economy, positioning 51福利社 and Cambridge as central players on the global stage to accelerate growth for all in society.鈥� 

The partnership is the first of its kind, and it aims to build closer relations between universities and research institutions, attract more investment and speed up the growth of start and scale-ups.

Chair of Greater 51福利社 Business Board and Professor of Innovation at the University of 51福利社, Lou Cordwell, said: 鈥淭his partnership is a groundbreaking initiative 鈥� bringing together two of the UK鈥檚 leading innovation cities to help us achieve more. Whether it鈥檚 researchers, entrepreneurs, established businesses or investors, we want to support a flow of innovation between our two places.

鈥淗earing from the Mayors, local leaders, businesses and universities today, the scale of the opportunity and level of ambition was clear and we鈥檙e excited to take the partnership further.鈥�

Mayor of Greater 51福利社, Andy Burnham, said: 鈥淕reater 51福利社 and Cambridge are two world-renowned centres of innovation. This partnership is breaking new ground, creating strong new ties between the North of England and the Golden Triangle to drive regional and national economic growth.

鈥淥ur two places have distinct identities and unique strengths, but we also have a lot in common 鈥� world-leading universities and dynamic, fast-growing economies. We also share an ambition for growth that benefits everyone, with more people and businesses able to access the opportunities created by innovation. By working together, we can be greater than the sum of our parts.鈥�

The Vice-Chancellor鈥檚 trip to Cambridge followed hot on the heels of the new government鈥檚 first Budget, in which research and development (R&D) is cited as one of the Chancellor鈥檚 key priorities. An increase in public R&D investment of 拢20.4billion in 2025/26 was announced in addition to a boosted budget of 拢13.9billion for the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT).

The partnership between 51福利社 and the University of Cambridge aims to plot a new way forward for R&D and innovation-led growth.

If you are interested in applying for the Eli & Britt Harari Award 2025, here are the details:

• Applications open: Monday 11th November 2024
• Applicant Support Session: Tuesday 28th January 2025
• Applications close: Monday 10th February 2025
• Find out more information, head to the Award's page on the MEC website .
• Any questions: Contact harari@manchester.ac.uk

While on campus, DPM Heng and his delegation explored opportunities for future collaboration, particularly in the space of R&D and innovation. The visit to 51福利社 was the only non-London element of the DPM鈥檚 UK visit, alongside Cambridge; they visited the city due to its effective innovation ecosystem evident in the relationship between the university, businesses and local government.

DPM Heng observed a briefing by the and the before having dinner with President and Vice-Chancellor, Duncan Ivison. He also visited the 51福利社 Fuel Cell Innovation Centre and met with the UK Biobank.

As part of his visit to the city, DPM Heng met with Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater 51福利社, to discuss views on how government, academia, finance, industry and talent can come together to grow vibrant and integrated innovation ecosystems.

51福利社 has a longstanding relationship with Singapore, welcoming many Singaporean students each year. Undergraduate exchange agreements are in place with the National University of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University and Singapore Management University.

The International Development Division at 51福利社 maintains good relationships with the various institutions across Singapore and arranges several visits to Singapore each year for colleagues from Faculties and Schools.

The International Development Division also has close links with the Singapore Students鈥� Society of 51福利社 who act as ambassadors at events, and there are also close ties with the active University of 51福利社 Alumni Group.

The Alliance 51福利社 Business School (AMBS) has had a presence in Singapore since 1992 and opened the , in Singapore, in 1999; with 400 active students and 1,500 alumni, the Centre offers MBA course and Masters Degrees.

The South East Asia Centre participated in the University鈥檚 bicentenary event, Light Up, in January 2024, by gathering current students and esteemed alumni for a jubilant reception.

The announcement has been made as part of a collaboration agreed between Lilly and UK Government today, unveiled at the Government鈥檚 International Investment Summit. 

The study will evaluate the real-world effectiveness of tirzepatide in weight loss, diabetes prevention, and prevention of obesity-related complications for adults with obesity. 

The evidence generated will seek to increase the global evidence base on the long-term impacts of weight loss medicines and potentially inform the UK's care pathway approach to the treatment of obesity. Significantly, the five-year study will also aim to collect data on healthcare resource utilisation, health-related quality of life and changes in participants鈥� employment status and sick days from work. 

Health Innovation 51福利社 has worked with the University of 51福利社 and local digital trials company NorthWest EHealth to develop the study approach.

Mayor of Greater 51福利社, Andy Burnham, said: 鈥淕reater 51福利社 is worldrenowned as a hub for innovation in health and life sciences. The results of the trial announced today could have a far-reaching impact on how we treat obesity globally, and our city-region is ready to make a significant contribution through our outstanding health data assets, R&D expertise, and the strong partnerships between industry, universities and public sector organisations.

鈥淭he International Investment Summit will provide an opportunity to showcase our local strengths in health innovation to an audience of global business leaders and investors. This partnership could be the first of many and give Greater 51福利社 residents access to other innovative treatments.鈥�

Professor Rachel Batterham, Senior Vice President for International Medical Affairs at Lilly, said: 鈥淎t Lilly, we are deeply committed to improving lives by partnering across the health system to address complex health challenges like obesity. We鈥檙e delighted to partner with Health Innovation 51福利社 on our plans for the SURMOUNT-REAL UK study. This collaboration will add to the evidence base on the real world impact of obesity treatments on the health of people with obesity, and will explore a broad range of outcomes including health-related quality of life and impact on individuals鈥� employment status.鈥�

, Professor of Cardiometabolic Medicine, University of 51福利社, and principal investigator for the Greater 51福利社 study, said: 鈥淭his five-year real-world study aims to demonstrate the long-term efficacy and safety profile of tirzepatide in a primary care setting compared to usual care. It will specifically quantify the medicine鈥檚 long-term effects on obesity, diabetes incidence, and obesity-related complications, as well as its impacts on employment and health economic outcomes.鈥� 

Ben Bridgewater, CEO at Health Innovation 51福利社, commented: 鈥淕reater 51福利社 (GM) is well placed to deliver novel trials and real-world evidence studies to develop a deeper understanding of the impact that industry-led innovation can have on population health. Through this landmark partnership with Lilly we will show how a medicine impacts people鈥檚 long-term health outcomes. This will help us understand its effects people with obesity in GM as well as inform national strategies and pave the way for further research and development in this critical area.鈥�

Mark Britnell, Chair of Health Innovation 51福利社, said: 鈥淥wing to our strengths in life sciences, academia and digital, Greater 51福利社 has all the ingredients to be truly world-leading in health innovation. This is demonstrated through our partnership with Lilly, which will help to propel our sector strengths even further forward for the benefit of local patients.鈥�

Mark Fisher, CEO of the NHS Greater 51福利社 Integrated Care Board, said: 鈥淎round 600,000 adults in Greater 51福利社 live with obesity, many of whom also suffer with other obesity-related illnesses which reduces their quality of life and puts additional pressure on the health and care system. Working collaboratively with industry to solve these problems is paramount, and I am delighted to support the study coming to the Greater 51福利社 integrated care system.鈥� 

Jonathan Wogel, Chief Executive Officer, NorthWest EHealth, said: 鈥淲e are excited to be partnering with our colleagues at Health Innovation 51福利社 to deliver this new study which is aimed at generating data to support patients with obesity. It is not only a milestone for NWEH and Greater 51福利社 (GM), but a significant moment for the UK clinical trials industry. By combining GM鈥檚 well established health system with our innovative technology, we are demonstrating the future of clinical trials, where technology and health data integrate to make research more efficient, helping develop and deliver better care for patients.鈥�

51福利社 is today launching a new capability, , to rethink how it supports the region鈥檚 innovation economy. With a mandate to drive the University鈥檚 new approach to innovation, Unit M will connect and catalyse the innovation ecosystem in 51福利社 and the wider region to accelerate inclusive growth.

The UK faces a myriad of interlinked urgent economic and social challenges which require faster and more inclusive growth across all parts of the country. Cities like 51福利社, as the UK鈥檚 second largest city, are critical to rebalancing growth - but lower productivity, R&D spend and startup activity currently hinder the region in achieving its full potential. 

鈥淭he transformative potential of fully embracing innovation cannot be understated, both for the region and for the UK more widely鈥� says Duncan Ivison, President and Vice Chancellor of 51福利社.  鈥淯nit M lies at the heart of the University鈥檚 ambition to power an inclusive economy, positioning 51福利社 as a central player on the global stage to accelerate growth for all in society.鈥�

Unit M is designed to address all aspects of the innovation challenge - from R&D through to innovation adoption through to talent and skills - by making the world leading  innovation assets and talents of the University more accessible to all. Unit M will drive a new strategy for the University to create a globally leading innovation ecosystem in the region. This will encompass powering the start up and scale up community, catalysing industry clusters, leading future skills provision, strengthening the University鈥檚 partnerships within the region, and telling 51福利社鈥檚 innovation story.  
 

Examples of some of the activities that Unit M will undertake include:

• Creating accelerator and incubator programmes and building investor networks for the startup and scale up community;
• Developing regional innovation clusters and innovation partnerships to attract new innovation-intensive businesses to the region; 
• A new lifelong approach to skills - from expanding scientific/technological skills provision for students, to training executive leaders on innovation adoption; 
• Rethinking the University鈥檚 approach to R&D to be more flexible and responsive to industry demand

Unit M will have the agility to operate dynamically in response to the most impactful opportunities as they emerge - whether that鈥檚 connecting students into the ecosystem or drawing on expertise from across the whole University to help solve real world challenges from industry. 

鈥�51福利社 has experienced major change over the past 30 years, but not everyone has benefited from rising prosperity鈥�, said Mayor of Greater 51福利社, Andy Burnham. 鈥淣ow, more than ever, we need to pioneer a new model of regional collaboration that harnesses our industrial strengths and innovation capabilities. Unit M will not only foster inclusive growth throughout Greater 51福利社, but contribute to the broader prosperity of the UK.鈥�

Unit M is live from today, and will be rapidly scaling over the coming months. The team is seeking to connect with entrepreneurs, investors, changemakers and business leaders who are interested in partnering with the University.

Cllr Bev Craig, Leader of 51福利社 City Council, said: 鈥�51福利社 has always been a hotbed of innovation. Building on our existing strengths is vital to 51福利社, and Greater 51福利社, accelerating our growth at scale to generate more jobs and investment. With Unit M, 51福利社 is doing exactly that - doubling down on innovation while encouraging even more collaboration with our business community. Further strengthening the city's innovation ecosystem will help create jobs, investment and growth that works for everyone.鈥�

Unit M will align with and complement existing capabilities across the University, including the University鈥檚 tech transfer office, The Innovation Factory,  The Pankhurst Institute for Health Technology and the Turing Innovation Catalyst and its sector leading business engagement, student entrepreneurship, and flexible learning teams. It will also partner closely with external capabilities, including the Greater 51福利社 Combined Authority (GMCA), local councils and other institutions.  

By convening these existing innovation services across the University and its key strategic partners, Unit M will accelerate and drive the development of new opportunities to build a strong innovation economy throughout the region.  

UoMIF has met or exceeded several key performance targets, reinforcing its commitment to fostering innovation in 51福利社 and supporting the commercialisation of cutting-edge research to benefit society.

Innovation Factory is 51福利社鈥檚 commercialisation arm, dedicated to translating research into commercial opportunities while working closely with academics, industry partners and investors to create and support spinout companies and license cutting-edge technologies.

Over the past year, UoMIF successfully launched seven new spinout companies which span a diverse range of sectors, showcasing the breadth of innovative research emerging from 51福利社. These include: Haliogen Power Limited, Plant Organelle Technologies Limited, Oncodrug Limited, VariantValidator Limited, CASA Space Technologies Limited, Kavarney Limited 鈥� with CGSkin recently acquired by Skin Diary Limited as well.

In addition to success in setting up spinouts, UoMIF secured 拢2.3million in licensing income. Future growth in this space looks positive too, with ongoing negotiations and potential deals progressing.

UoMIF has also secured 拢9.2million in first investments for new University spinouts, significantly exceeding its target of 拢5million. This success reflects the growth of investor confidence in high-potential technologies developed within the University.

Commenting on the year-end results, Catherine Headley, CEO of the University of 51福利社 Innovation Factory, said: "This year鈥檚 performance is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team and the remarkable talent within 51福利社.

鈥淭he successful launch of seven new spinouts and the exceptional level of investment secured are clear indicators that our innovation ecosystem is thriving. While there is room for growth in our licensing income, we are confident that the foundations laid this year will lead to significant future opportunities. We remain committed to supporting our researchers in transforming their groundbreaking ideas into impactful, real-world solutions."

Luke Georghiou, Deputy President and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of 51福利社, said: 鈥淭he Innovation Factory plays a crucial role in transforming our academic breakthroughs into tangible societal benefits. The success of this year鈥檚 spinouts and the remarkable level of investment secured are clear evidence of the impact the Innovation Factory is having.

鈥淭hese results demonstrate the University鈥檚 continued commitment to driving technology and entrepreneurship and it highlights the vital place that 51福利社 has in leading the world鈥檚 innovations. I commend the entire team at UoMIF for their outstanding achievements this year ensuring that 51福利社 remains at the forefront of research commercialisation.鈥�

R2I is a bespoke entrepreneurship training programme for final-year PhD students, PDRAs and early-career researchers from across all faculties with ambitions to develop commercial ventures or to create impact from their academic studies.

The programme includes a series of interactive personal and professional development sessions, which introduce the concept of commercialisation, equipping researchers with strategies to take ideas forward and discover new pathways to funding.

Read more about the researchers recently supported to further their ideas.

and register now to attend one of our short  to hear more about the programme and how to apply.

Key Dates

Cohort 1:

• Introductory Sessions: In person and online across 16^th and 17^th October 
• Applications Open: 17th October
• Application Deadline: 28th October
• Programme: 14^th November - 19^th February 2025

Cohort 2:

• Information Sessions: March 2025
• Programme: April 鈥� June 2025

The MEC Researcher to Innovator (R2I) programme is supported by the University鈥檚 Innovation Academy. The Innovation Academy is a pan University initiative and joint venture between the , the  and the Business Engagement and Knowledge Exchange team, bringing together knowledge, expertise and routes to facilitate the commercialisation of research.

51福利社鈥檚 new 拢1.7bn innovation district and neighbourhood opens the doors to its first building, while unveiling its new name as . The district has also announced its first customer, Sustainable Ventures, Europe's leading climate tech hub, which will officially move into the Renold Building in November. 

Previously known as ID 51福利社, Sister is a joint venture between 51福利社 and . The project will see the transformation of the University鈥檚 former North campus into a 4 million sq ft globally competitive innovation district and will help elevate 51福利社鈥檚 position as a national centre for science and technology.

Sister will specialise in advancing innovation across sectors including digital tech, health innovation, biotechnology, advanced materials and manufacturing. It will provide access to state of the art facilities, connecting early-stage high growth potential businesses with investors, while creating a collaborative ecosystem that enables UK and global businesses to benefit from cutting edge innovation. 

Driving economic growth and creating opportunities for local communities

Sister is primed to be a catalyst for economic growth and prosperity across the North of England, and is projected to contribute around 拢1.5bn GVA per annum to 51福利社. More than just a development project, the district aims to create a positive social impact through the generation of a large portion of high-quality employment opportunities, including over 10,000 on-site full-time equivalent jobs and accessible routes to education, training and apprenticeships for local people. 

Over 1,500 new homes will be delivered, alongside over 2 million sq ft of commercial, innovation, retail and leisure space. Within 9 acres of public realm space, Sister will also create a new civic square for 51福利社 and feature a variety of new and enhanced green spaces for local communities to access and enjoy.  

Reinventing a historic educational building for tomorrow's leading businesses

The opening  of the Renold Building marks the first phase of the ambitious 15 year project and is supported by funding through the Greater 51福利社 Investment Zone, of which the district is a key initiative supporting the growth of the advanced materials and manufacturing sector.

The 110,000 sq ft newly renovated building has been transformed into an innovation hub, celebrating its history as a purpose-built teaching facility and centre for science and technology excellence. To support the growth and scale-up of early-stage start-ups and spin-outs, the Renold Building will provide a range of low and no-cost coworking facilities, private office suites, as well as a community cafe and flexible event spaces accessible to local businesses and community groups. 

The first customer to move on site this November is Sustainable Ventures, which helps climate start-ups and entrepreneurs scale through investment, workspaces and venture support. Sustainable Ventures will expand its presence outside of its London headquarters, currently Europe鈥檚 largest climate tech hub, by occupying three floors of the Renold Building. 

It will be joined by a number of University innovation initiatives at the Renold Building, including the Turing Innovation Catalyst 51福利社, accelerating the growth of AI-start-ups;  the Christabel Pankhurst Institute for health technology research and innovation; and the Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Catalyst, a cross-sector collaboration to empower the growth of biotechnology businesses.

Following the opening of the Renold Building, Sister will soon announce plans for the district鈥檚 first major development zone, set to include new commercial workspace, a mix of retail and leisure facilities and new public realm spaces.  

A model for successful public-private collaboration

Sister is leveraging successful cross-industry partnerships to become a major economic enabler for the future of the city. The district is one of the key strengths in the GM Investment Zone, which will invest 拢160 million in projects that increase growth and innovation in the region over the next 10 years and sees central and local government work closely with businesses, higher education institutions and other local partners. Key to delivering Sister鈥檚 long-term economic impact is the city region鈥檚 strong local leadership and support from industry investment, including through the Bruntwood SciTech joint venture between Bruntwood, Legal & General and Greater 51福利社 Pension Fund, now the UK鈥檚 largest dedicated property platform dedicated to the growth of the knowledge economy.

Why Sister?

The name, Sister, represents the close bond between industry and academia and expresses an ethos of collaboration, openness and the use of knowledge to solve problems. It builds on the heritage of the former academic campus, once home to the University of 51福利社 Institute of Science and Technology (UMIST), and represents a vision to create an ecosystem of like-minded companies, institutions, districts and cities to drive innovation forward and help tackle some of the world鈥檚 greatest challenges.

Bradley Topps, Project Director, Sister and Chief Commercial Officer, Bruntwood SciTech, said: 鈥�Sister is founded on the belief that it takes a community to raise an idea and that although ideas may appear in a single mind, they flourish when people come together. This new district marks a new chapter in 51福利社鈥檚 history of science and innovation. Over the next 15 years, we鈥檙e dedicated to developing an inclusive space that connects talent, investment, education and enterprise, providing the perfect conditions for ideas to spark, collaboration to flourish, and world-changing innovations to scale.鈥�

John Holden, Associate Vice-President, 51福利社 and Executive Committee Member, Sister said: 鈥淭he opening of the Renold Building is a major milestone in the development of Sister, capitalising on 51福利社鈥檚 research, innovation and education capabilities to catalyse the growth of successful science and technology start-ups. Sister will be home to some of the most exciting businesses in the UK developing solutions to help tackle society's biggest challenges. We're excited to open the doors to a vibrant new innovation district that will drive growth for ambitious start-ups and scale-ups, attract new science and technology companies to 51福利社, and create new opportunities for our staff, students and local communities.鈥� 

Cllr Bev Craig, Leader of 51福利社 City Council, said: 鈥淭his is a significant moment for 51福利社. The fact that Sister will ultimately create 10,000 jobs and add 拢1.5 billion a year to the city鈥檚 economy underlines its scale and the sheer ambition behind this major new district. This development will add to 51福利社鈥檚 thriving innovation ecosystem and, true to the heritage of a site from which great ideas and innovations have previously sprung, will help keep the city in the forefront of future innovation.鈥� 

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater 51福利社, said: 鈥淪ister will be a thriving innovation district at the heart of Greater 51福利社. With the Renold Building opening and welcoming its first occupier, we鈥檙e seeing the first signs of what this area will become 鈥� a home for start-ups, innovation-led businesses, universities, researchers and investors, where the clustering effect helps create jobs and opportunities. Sister is also a key site for our Investment Zone, which is supporting the growth of the advanced materials and manufacturing sector. Our city-region has been a centre of scientific and technological innovation for two centuries and places like Sister are where the next chapter of that story is written.鈥�

CEO of Sustainable Ventures, Andrew Wordsworth, said: 鈥淲e're thrilled to grow Sustainable Ventures' footprint in the UK by establishing a presence in Sister, at the heart of the UK鈥檚 second-largest tech ecosystem. This partnership empowers us to supercharge climate tech innovation across The North, bringing workspace, investment and a wealth of expertise to the region鈥檚 pioneering startups and entrepreneurs. The climate tech companies we鈥檝e supported to date have already created over 6,000 jobs and we hope to replicate that economic growth within the region over the next few years.鈥�

This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone for the brands in their pursuit of dermatological research advancement and skincare innovation.  will be launching the first of the CGSkin products, Night Repair Therapy on 25 October 2024. Night Repair Therapy is a true innovation designed to regenerate and rebuild collagen and elastin in prematurely aged skin without irritation.

Founded in 2023 by leading researchers in skin ageing, The Skin Diary is modernising skincare through its innovative product Chapters. The Skin Diary offers prescription-grade skincare routines that leverage skin cycling to deliver optimal outcomes to patients while minimising irritation. 

CGSkin, a University of 51福利社 spinout, is built on a decade of rigorous research and collaboration between the University and eminent dermatologists Dr Tamara Griffiths and Professor Chris Griffiths. Their suite of anti-ageing products has undergone exhaustive testing to the highest standards, including unprecedented human skin biopsy studies. 

With the acquisition of CGSkin, The Skin Diary is set apart from other skincare brands due to its academic lineage and the expertise of its founders. Professor Chris Griffiths is a distinguished figure in skin research; his seminal research on topical retinoids has made a huge impact on the field of skin ageing. Dr Tamara Griffiths brings invaluable aesthetic science expertise to the partnership.

Only 8.6% of the skincare market is dispensed by physicians, and Chapters provides patients with a fully personalised profile with continuous access to dermatologists through their Skin Diary portal.

Catherine Headley, CEO of the said: 鈥淭his acquisition exemplifies the spirit of innovation, something that is part of the foundation of 51福利社.  Impact like this doesn鈥檛 happen overnight; it can be many years in the making. Everyone at the Innovation Factory is proud to see Professor and Dr Griffiths and their research welcomed into The Skin Diary family and we are honoured to have been able to support them on their journey.鈥�

鈥淭he acquisition of CGSkin by The Skin Diary is a testament to our dedication to providing patients with the most effective and innovative skincare solutions,鈥� said Dr Clare Kiely, Chief Medical Officer of the Skin Diary.  鈥淲e are excited to integrate CGSkin鈥檚 ground-breaking products into our portfolio, furthering our mission to empower individuals with access to advanced anti-ageing treatments.鈥�

Skincare is the leading sector in a thriving beauty market, accounting for 40% in .  Growing awareness of physician-dispensed cosmeceuticals means there is increasing demand for prescription-grade skincare options too.

To find out more about The Skin Diary, visit .

The recognition follows on from the publication of the in November 2023, which highlighted the pivotal role UK universities play in driving economic growth and societal impact through the commercialisation of intellectual property developed from university-based research.

The 2023 review outlined recommendations for building a world-leading innovation ecosystem in the UK. In response, 51福利社 has committed to aligning its spinout practices with these recommendations, reinforcing its dedication to supporting innovation.

Luke Georghiou, Deputy President and Deputy Vice-Chancellor at 51福利社, and the institution鈥檚 lead for innovation, said: "51福利社 has been and remains committed to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within our faculties and among our students. By adopting the recommendations from the Independent Review, we are aligning our practices with national goals to create a world-class innovation ecosystem.鈥�

The is the commercialisation arm of 51福利社, dedicated to transforming world-class research into commercial ventures that have a positive impact on society.

The Innovation Factory collaborates with academics, industry partners, and investors to develop and support spinout companies, license cutting-edge technologies and drive innovation across various sectors.

The UKRI announcement is available .

The KEF provides information about the broad ranging knowledge exchange activities of English HE Providers, such as the way universities work with external partners, from businesses to community groups, for the benefit of the economy and society. 

51福利社 supports the full range of knowledge exchange activities through public engagement, supporting businesses and commercialising research towards next generation technologies. Students, staff, partners and local communities all play a key role in ensuring that the University makes a positive societal and economic impact. 

The KEF allows universities to better understand their own performance and fosters a culture of continuous improvement. HE Providers are placed into a cluster of peers, grouping together universities of similar types, with 51福利社 placed in a group of 18 large, research-intensive universities including Oxford and Imperial. 

51福利社鈥檚 performance in continuous professional development and Graduate Startups, which is supported by the work of the and , received an enhanced rating of high engagement in KEF4, and 51福利社 now sits above the cluster group average.  

51福利社 also continues to receive the highest rating for Research Partnerships, where the University is placed above the cluster group average. This recognises the work of the University鈥檚 Business Engagement and Knowledge Exchange team.  

The excellent performance of the in licensing, IP income, investment and turnover of spinouts continues to be recognised with the highest rating in IP and Commercialisation. 

The University also received the highest rating for Public Engagement, and includes our achievements in volunteering, festivals, citizen science, and engagement with communities through our cultural institutions, , , , and the . 

Professor Luke Georghiou, Deputy President and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, said: 鈥淜nowledge exchange is a core priority for 51福利社. We shall continue to ensure that our research, teaching and social responsibility activities benefit the economy and society at local, national and global levels.鈥�  

• You can view each university鈥檚 performances on the . 

This prestigious award is designed to support students, postdoctoral researchers, recent graduates, and encourage new student cohorts to engage with MEC, in launching new businesses that involve graphene or other 2D materials. It鈥檚 all about sparking innovation and making a real impact in the commercial world, turning groundbreaking research into real, game-changing solutions for the future.

With awards of 拢50,000 and 拢20,000, we鈥檙e excited to celebrate the individuals or teams who showed how their graphene-related technology can be turned into a business. The applications were judged based on how solid their plans were for creating a new business related to graphene or 2D materials.

This award gives winners the perfect launchpad they need to kickstart their business. 51福利社 understands how crucial flexible early-stage financial support is for these kinds of ventures, to help make these dreams a reality and bring a product or technology to the market.

This year, the top prize of 拢50,000 went to Kun Huang of Solar Ethos. Kun has a Master鈥檚 degree in Corrosion Control Engineering and a PhD in Material Physics. The second prize of 拢20,000 was awarded to Hafiza Hifza Nawaz of Fabstics, who has a PhD in Materials. We also congratulate the other finalists - Mohammadhossein Saberian of EcoTarTech and Ozan Zehni of Dorlion SHM.

The winners, pictured above with Deputy Vice-Chancellor & Deputy President Luke Georghiou:

• Left: First place - Solar Ethos
• Right: Second place - Fabstics

All finalists received support throughout the competition, which included: pitching workshops, help with applications by Scott Dean (CEO of Graphene Trace), and IP advice from Innovation Factory. These resources were key in helping them navigate the challenges of starting a business and turning their groundbreaking ideas into real-world solutions.

Our top-tier judges included Professor Luke Georghiou, Deputy President and Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of 51福利社; Lynn Sheppard, Masood Entrepreneurship Centre Director; Jessica McCreadie, Investment Director at Northern Gritstone; James Baker, CEO Graphene @51福利社 at 51福利社; and Gareth Jones, Project Manager - Electronics at the University of 51福利社 Innovation Factory. Their expertise and dedication to encouraging innovation played a key role in choosing projects that could make a big difference.

We offer a huge congratulations to all the participants! We can鈥檛 wait to see the fantastic impact of their innovative work in the commercial world. By supporting these entrepreneurs, we're not only helping them achieve their dreams but also paving the way for future advancements that can tackle some of the world's most pressing challenges.

Along with the awards, we heard inspiring speeches from high-profile individuals such as Lynn Sheppard, Professor James Baker, Dr. Vivek Koncherry, Liam Johnson, and Professor Luke Georghiou. They shared amazing insights about graphene and other 2D materials, emphasising the transformative potential of these technologies and the importance of ongoing innovation. We were also joined via Zoom from California by Dr. Eli Harari, founder of SanDisk, the memory storage technology company. He encouraged attendees to "Think Big!".

Eli & Britt Harari Award 2021 winner Dr. Vivek Koncherry, the CEO of Graphene Innovations 51福利社, is making significant strides in connecting graphene technology with global business opportunities. Last year, he signed a $1 billion partnership with Quazar Investment Company to create a new company in the UAE aimed at tackling global sustainability challenges. Recognised as 51福利社's answer to Elon Musk, Vivek recently impressed judges to win the North West heat of KPMG鈥檚 Tech Innovator in the UK 2024. With a strong background as an alumnus and researcher from 51福利社, Vivek exemplifies the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation.

Some notable quotes about the competition include Lynn Sheppard's encouragement, "For all the winners and nominees, your journey does not stop here, it goes on," and Prof. James Baker's insight, "Graphene can make a big difference in addressing the climate change challenges." Dr. Vivek Koncherry highlighted 51福利社's entrepreneurial spirit by stating, "51福利社 is very good for entrepreneurship," while Dr. Eli Harari inspired with, "We need people like you to aspire in making the world better." Liam Johnson appreciated the award's impact, saying, "The award allowed me to turn this idea to something tangible," and Prof. Luke Georghiou emphasised the importance of support with, "It's our duty to build an ecosystem to support the development of graphene."

Their words emphasised the event's theme of driving change and shaping a brighter future through cutting-edge research and entrepreneurship, wrapping up the event on an exhilarating high.

As an active member of the  group of international leaders in university research commercialisation,  and co-author of the and , launched on 20^th May, we recognise the distinction between intellectual property intensive areas such as the life sciences and the simpler pathway for some software commercialisation and sets out practical ways to improve the speed and efficiency of spin out formation. We have therefore initiated a review of intellectual property policies and practice, in collaboration with our partners in the Northern Gritstone investment company, which was established as a positive response to the high concentration of VC funding in London to provide VC funding in the North.

Innovation is a core theme for the University and our ambition is to create a thriving innovation ecosystem, which supports our entrepreneurs, spin outs and partners to start up, secure investment and scale, contributing positively to the prosperity of our region. Working through our technology transfer subsidiary, the , we have produced 29 spinouts in the past three years and remain committed to providing the optimal environment for entrepreneurs to develop their ideas. Our policy review and founder friendly approach and commitment to supporting spin outs, will catalyse growth of a vibrant regional ecosystem which supports companies to grow and scale.

Our joint venture partnership with Bruntwood Scitech to develop our North Campus into an Innovation District, will additionally provide an anchor location for our spin outs to establish and succeed within our own community, with an opportunity to access space, investors, facilities, partners, business support and networks within one location.

Professor Luke Georghiou, Deputy President and Vice-Chancellor and lead for Innovation said: 鈥淭he Spin-out Review showed the vital role of universities in generating IP-Rich companies in the advanced areas most likely to revitalise our economy. We will use its recommendations as a platform to double down on bringing leading edge discoveries to the market.鈥�

While existing TEMs can image atomic scale structure and chemistry, the time-consuming nature of the technique means the typical regions of interest (ROI) - areas of the sample selected for further analysis - are very limited. The AutomaTEM will resolve this, improving the ability to find and analyse, reducing time incurred while increasing the ROI. As a result, it will accelerate innovation in materials applications for quantum computing, low power electronics, and new catalysts to support the energy transition, all which are currently held back by the limitations of current technology.

The AutomaTEM development is funded through a 拢9.5 million project supported by 51福利社, The Henry Royce Institute, bp and EPSRC, in collaboration with manufacturer Thermo Fisher Scientific. The 51福利社 team, led by Professor Sarah Haigh, will merge TEM鈥檚 existing atomic scale elemental and chemical mapping capabilities together with emerging developments in automation and data analysis to create the AutomaTEM; an instrument that can acquire huge data sets of local chemical information in days rather than years.

Prof , Professor of Materials Characterisation at 51福利社 and Director of the Electron Microscopy Centre (EMC), said: "Understanding atomic detail at the micrometer or millimeter scale is crucial for developing materials for various applications, from catalysis and quantum technologies to nuclear energy and pharmaceuticals.

"This system is not simply another TEM instrument. It will provide new opportunities for atomic scale investigation of materials with less human intervention. For the first time we will be able to enable atomic resolution analysis of hundreds of regions of interest in a matter of hours, providing unprecedented insights into sparse defects and heterogeneous materials." 

Designed with artificial intelligence and automated workflows at its core, the AutomaTEM boasts several cutting-edge features, including:

• Computer control to automatically adjust the sample stage and beam to address specific regions of interest, enabling detailed high-resolution imaging and diffraction-based analysis without continuous operator interaction.
• Machine learning integration to segment lower resolution data and build functional relationships between experimental results, enhancing the identification of novel features. 
• A world-leading Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) system with exceptional collection efficiency, providing precise compositional analysis.
• A new high-performance electron energy loss spectrometer (EELS) design for chemical analysis of diverse species in complex systems.

Custom built, it is being developed in collaboration with Thermo Fisher Scientific and will arrive in summer 2025. The global laboratory equipment manufacturer has provided Professor Haigh鈥檚 team access to the necessary API control, and will supply an energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) system with a world-leading collection efficiency of 4.5 srad.

The AutomaTEM will be housed in 51福利社's state-of-the-art (EMC), one of the largest in the UK. The EMC already has 6 transmission electron microscopes (TEMs), 13 scanning electron microscopes (SEMs), and 6 focussed ion beam (FIB) instruments. It supports more than 500 internal users, from 12 different University of 51福利社 Departments, and welcomes users from institutes across the world, including Cardiff, Durham, Queen Mary and 51福利社 Metropolitan universities, University of Cape Town (SA), Ceres Power, Nexperia, Nanoco, bp, Johnson Matthey, Oxford Instruments, and UKAEA.

AutomaTEM will be available to external users for free proof of principle academic projects for up to 30 per cent of its total use during the first three years to help foster collaboration and advance research capabilities.

, Royal Society University Research Fellow at 51福利社, who is leading co-investigator on the project, said: "The faster, more accurate analysis capabilities of AutomaTEM represent a significant leap forward in materials science research.

鈥淲ith the potential to impact various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and semiconductor, the AutomaTEM aims to support the UK鈥檚 position at the forefront of materials science innovation.鈥�

Today鈥檚 announcement consolidates 51福利社鈥檚 reputation at the forefront of advanced materials research. Home to highest concentration of materials scientists in UK academia, it hosts several national centres for Advanced Materials research including the Henry Royce Institute - the UK national institute for Advanced Materials Research; the bp-ICAM, a global partnership to enable the effective application of advanced materials for the transition to net zero; the National Centre for X-ray Computational Tomography; and the National Graphene Institute, the world-leading interdisciplinary centre for graphene and 2D materials research.

The renewed commitment will help Boots and No7 Beauty Company continue to break new ground in helping people care for their skin throughout their life, whether it is maintaining skin health, helping to combat skin ageing or supporting people through significant skin changes such as those resulting from the menopause. It will also further strengthen their market leading cosmetic science innovation pipeline, which has delivered product innovations generating waiting lists of up to 100,000 people, physical queues outside Boots stores and surges in visits to boots.com. 

The announcement was made at a special event held at the University, which celebrated some of the partnership鈥檚 most significant scientific milestones, including the launch of its biggest scientific breakthrough to date; the ground-breaking No7 Future Renew skincare range. The range was launched exactly one year ago this week and was developed following 15 years of research and development between scientists at both organisations, resulting in the discovery of a world-first super peptide blend formulated into a best-selling range and serum that is clinically proven to reverse visible signs of skin damage.  This innovation has taken the beauty industry by storm, with the Future Renew serum becoming a global bestseller and the biggest ever beauty launch in the UK.  In the UK, there were more than 500,000 transactions in the first four weeks, and a year later, one product is still sold every seven seconds.

The collaboration renewal also coincides with both institutions celebrating landmark anniversaries; with Boots marking its 175th anniversary and 51福利社 reaching its 200 year milestone in 2024.

Mark Winter, Managing Director, No7 Beauty Company, said: 鈥�We are incredibly proud of our longstanding partnership with the UoM鈥檚 Centre for Dermatology Research and excited for the next phase of our collaboration.  Scientific innovation is part of our DNA and by working with world-leading partners like the University of 51福利社 we are committed to using our unrivalled research expertise to be at the forefront of skincare and cosmetic innovation, developing ground-breaking, clinically proven, affordable products that work for everyone.鈥�

The event was attended by representatives from both institutions, including Ornella Barra, Chief Operating Officer, International, Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc and Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, President and Vice-Chancellor, 51福利社.  

from 51福利社 said: 鈥淲e are delighted to be able to continue our partnership with Boots and to pursue our shared aims of uncovering new insights into skin biology and applying this knowledge to repairing accumulated damage.鈥� 

, also from 51福利社  said: "Our longstanding partnership with Boots has enabled us to explore the depths of skin science while delivering real-world benefits to consumers through clinical translational research. We are thrilled to continue this collaboration, advancing innovation and enhancing skin health for all individuals."

Where it all began
The partnership was established twenty years ago by a small team of No7 and University of 51福利社 scientists. The ambition was to come together to create cutting-edge skincare solutions that could be taken from the laboratory straight to the high street.  One of the first innovations was the renowned No7 Protect & Perfect serum. The serum famously featured in a BBC Horizon programme in 2007, where the efficacy of the serum was verified by independent dermatologists, leading to the product selling out in Boots stores throughout the UK.

Fast forward to 2024 and today, the collaboration has caught the eyes of the scientific community and the Government.  It has also:  

• Led to 10 patents being filed, with more in the pipeline
• Resulted in over 100 academic publications including 60 peer reviewed papers published in scientific journals
• Helped to upskill thousands of beauty advisors and pharmacists within Boots stores
• Supported a UK talent pipeline of brilliant entrepreneurial scientists 鈥� many of whom are female
• Significantly raised the reputation of bioscience research in the UK and in particular in the North West
• Helped put No7 on the global map with distribution now extending to over a dozen countries including Australia, the Nordics and the US
• Created effective collaborations both in the UK and internationally with the likes of Imperial College London, Kings College, Newcastle, York and Liverpool universities, as well as internationally with Johns Hopkins.

Millie Kendall OBE, CEO, British Beauty Council, comments: 鈥淭he launch of No7 Future Renew was somewhat revolutionary.  The teams took a ground-breaking scientific discovery straight into an affordable, accessible skincare range available to all on the British high street, whereas traditionally you would see cutting-edge scientific innovations trickle down to high street products several years after launching in premium products or clinics. It is testament to the rigour and strength of the partnership between 51福利社, Boots and No7 Beauty Company that they have created truly world-leading skincare innovation together.鈥�

New era of discovery beckons
The renewal of the partnership establishes a ground-breaking five-year research programme that will explore peptides, clinical testing, skin immunology, and the skin microbiome. It includes a pioneering project to investigate skin across the pigmentary spectrum, aiming to develop more inclusive and effective technologies suitable for all skin tones. The project has already secured multi-million-pound funding from The BBSRC鈥檚 Prosperity Award, marking a significant investment in advancing skin science.

Samantha Dover, Mintel Category Director of Beauty and Personal Care research, said: 鈥淏eauty consumers are increasingly discerning and want to know more about the products they buy. This is exemplified by the 71% of UK adults who believe beauty brands should provide more scientific evidence to validate their claims. Showcasing the research and development behind a product can provide brands with a powerful point of difference in a crowded market. Moreover, partnerships that elevate and spotlight the R&D process will undoubtedly appeal to consumers who want brands to validate their claims, and therefore can build brand trust and loyalty.鈥� 

Investing in the next generation of British scientists
Throughout the partnership, 51福利社, Boots and No7 Beauty Company will support the next generation of scientists through the following initiatives:

• Funding from BBSRC Collaborative Training Partnership in 2021 to train 15 PhD students, addressing skills gaps in the UK bioscience industry.
• Co-investing with UKRI since 2019, with UKRI recognising the No7 Future Renew story as an exemplar of business and university collaboration.

An event is being held at 51福利社 on April 11^th (the one year anniversary of the No7 Future Renew launch) to celebrate the impact and success of the partnership and look ahead at the next phase. 

The evolution of solutions is creating new opportunities to transform patient care and personal health outcomes. From remote monitoring and wearables, to artificial intelligence and machine learning, digital technologies are enabling health data collection and analysis and offering new insights, diagnosis and therapies.

Here is an overview of the Citation Impact on Digital Health Top 25 Rankings. The complete list can be accessed in 鈥檚 article.

Research into digital health has grown massively nowadays, whereas the scale of growth in digital health research is remarkable. Based on Clarivate data, publications on digital health topics 鈥� which include everything from wearable devices and mobile apps to AI analytics, telemedicine and 3D printing of drugs 鈥� have risen nearly 70-fold between 2013 and 2022, from a mere 39 Web of Science-indexed papers to 2,641 鈥� while UK researchers were involved in 20 per cent of all papers.

The statistics demonstrate that the University currently has 75 digital health papers in the Web of Science, 1582 citations, 32 per cent of papers in the top 10 per cent by citation, scoring 2.50 category normalised citation impact (CNCI). It showcases 51福利社鈥檚 consistent efforts to advance digital health research that benefits the public.

Previously, the immense volumes of medical data from numerous wearable devices or mobile phones might have overwhelmed even the most data-savvy researcher. However, artificial intelligence now enables researchers to effectively navigate such vast amounts of information without requiring advanced coding skills. Likewise, hospitals and health centres worldwide are sharing patient records in a manner that allows algorithms to detect trends, including identifying emerging pandemics at their onset.

Recent University of 51福利社 research, alongside Oxford University and Cancer Research UK used Artificial Intelligence to reveal a new form of aggressive prostate cancer which could revolutionise how the disease is diagnosed and treated in the future.

For more information:

This marks the initial phase of ID 51福利社鈥檚 ambitious plan to transform the University鈥檚 former North Campus into a welcoming and accessible new 拢1.7bn innovation district.  

The new vision for the Renold Building will celebrate its history as an educational hub by hosting the next wave of science and technology innovators and building an inclusive, purpose-driven community. The building will provide a range of coworking, office and meeting facilities to accommodate and support collaboration between researchers, entrepreneurs, businesses and partner organisations.  

New events and exhibition spaces, including lecture theatres and a community caf茅, will be accessible to local businesses, community groups and arts and culture organisations to host and participate in events and activities. 

An application to convert the building from educational to commercial use has been submitted to 51福利社 City Council by joint venture partners 51福利社 and Bruntwood SciTech. Pending application approval, the building is set to open in late 2024.  

Built in 1962, the Renold Building was the first of its kind in the UK to be entirely comprised of lecture theatres and seminar rooms. It is a building of note for many due to its striking features, including the faceted facade and stair tower, and the impressive internal mural on the lower ground floor. The redevelopment will retain and protect these elements as part of the application, as well as being sympathetic to the building鈥檚 exterior facades. Design interventions in the building鈥檚 interior will also be light touch, preserving the current condition as far as practically possible. This will allow for further conservation and restoration to be undertaken at a later date, ensuring the building will remain viable for future generations. 

Bradley Topps, Chief Commercial Officer for Bruntwood SciTech and Project Director for ID 51福利社, said: 鈥淭he transformation of the Renold Building into an innovation hub marks an important first step in the development of the trailblazing science and technology ecosystem we鈥檙e building at ID 51福利社. We recognise the importance of the Renold Building to many in the local community and beyond, and we are committed to reactivating the building in a way that celebrates the rich heritage and architecture of the building. We鈥檙every excited to be creating a new home for the next generation of 51福利社 innovators.鈥� 

John Holden, Associate Vice-President, 51福利社 and Executive Committee Member for ID 51福利社, said: 鈥漈he Renold Building will be an invaluable place to bring together like-minded organisations and partners to collaborate, develop and test new ideas. We鈥檙e building our innovation ecosystem from the ground up and the Renold Building will be a place that not only accelerates the growth of our city鈥檚 most promising entrepreneurs, SMEs and university spin-outs, but also provides the spaces and opportunities to allow our local communities to participate, experience and benefit from innovation too.鈥�  

The expertise and experience of ID 51福利社鈥檚 respective partners will be instrumental to the creation of its innovation ecosystem. Bruntwood SciTech, a joint venture between Bruntwood, Legal & General and Greater 51福利社 Pension Fund, is the largest dedicated property platform serving the UK鈥檚 innovation economy and brings its expertise in developing partnerships across academia, local authorities, cities and the NHS. This year marks 51福利社鈥檚 bicentenary, celebrating 200 years of key discoveries, world firsts and incredible people, and ID 51福利社 will build on this storied history of learning, innovation and research.

He also toured the site of , a joint venture between the University and Bruntwood SciTech, which will transform the North campus into an innovative 拢1.7 billion tech and science location.

Mr Kane, the Member of Parliament for Wythenshawe and Sale East, was briefed by Professor Alice Larkin and Dr Simon Bullock whose research sets out immediate actions required to cut shipping emissions by 34% to stay on course to achieve the Paris Agreement鈥檚 goal of limiting global heating to 1.5掳C above preindustrial levels.

The discussions took place following Mr Kane鈥檚 comments in the House of Commons last month in which he expressed concerns that the Government is yet to publish a refreshed Clean Maritime Plan to drive down UK shipping emissions.

Following a meeting with , the University鈥檚 Vice President for Civic Engagement, the Shadow Minister was shown around the nine-acre ID 51福利社 site and updated on the latest project plans by Tanya Graham, Head of Policy@51福利社, alongside Brad Topps, Chief Commercial Officer, and Sam Darby, Development Director, of Bruntwood SciTech.

The initiative is set to create over 10,000 new jobs and bring significant economic, social and environmental benefits to the city including more than 2 million square feet of commercial and retail space, and over 1,500 homes.

Professor Richard Jones said: 鈥淚t was a pleasure to brief Mike on the numerous exciting initiatives 51福利社 is currently involved in, and to hear his perspectives on the direction of public policy across a broad range of topics.

鈥淥ur ongoing research on shipping emissions is directly relevant to his brief as Shadow Minister for Aviation and Maritime and will inform debates nationally and internationally as policymakers strive to meet the 1.5掳C Paris Agreement limit.

鈥淲e are also proud and excited to be working in partnership with Bruntwood SciTech to deliver ID 51福利社, a place where offices, laboratories and creative studios will stand shoulder to shoulder with a world-class university to drive positive economic, social and environmental change.鈥�

Mike Kane MP said: 鈥淚 am grateful to Policy@51福利社 for arranging such a fascinating visit.

鈥淎s a 51福利社 MP, I take great pride in the quality of research and teaching happening here. The work on shipping emissions, led by Professor Larkin and Dr Bullock, is of especially high quality and it was useful for me to drill down into their findings in my meeting with them.

鈥淚D 51福利社 will have a transformative impact across the city region and far beyond, making a positive difference to the lives of entrepreneurs, students, professionals and families.

鈥淟ife continues to tough for many as the cost of living crisis endures, but better times for the people of 51福利社 lie ahead.鈥�  

Their Wellcome Trust funded study, published in Nature Microbiology could spell disaster for patients with aspergillosis - a dangerous fungal disease responsible for the deaths of millions of people worldwide.

With few treatment options for patients, aspergillus has developed widespread drug resistance to one class of drugs, known as the azoles.

The resistance is caused by the use of fungicides in agriculture, known as DMIs, increasing the risk of mortality from aspergillosis from 40% to up to 80%.

However, F2G Ltd 鈥� a spin out company from 51福利社 鈥� invested more than 拢250 million over 20 years on a new antifungal drug called olorofim, which is in late-stage clinical trials and aims to be clinically deployed within the next few years.

The scientists argue that because olorofim works against azole resistant infections it could save many lives of affected patients.

However, a newly developed fungicide crop spray called ipflufenoquin has been approved for use in the USA, under the trade name Kinoprol, and could severely impact on the new drug because it has the same biological target and kills the fungi the same way as olorofim.

Exposure of Aspergillus in the environment to Kinoprol could make it resistant to olorofim, rendering the treatment ineffective before it can even be deployed in the clinic, say the scientists.

The research team exposed Aspergillus to ipflufenoquin in the lab and then assessed resistance to olorofim. Genetic mutations that cause changes in the antifungals target gene provide resistance to ipflufenoquin but also provide resistance to olorofim.

Scientists have long known that environmental use of fungicides 鈥� which farmers need to keep their crops free of fungal infection 鈥� has the potential to drive resistance to other clinical antifungals.

Researchers also believe that composting of waste from farms is causing accumulation of fungicides in environments where Aspergillus likes to grow.

Wind currents, intensive farming, and transport of commercial composts can disperse the drug-resistant fungal spores further into the environment and end up in our gardens, bedrooms, kitchens, and bathrooms.

Most healthy people are unaffected by Aspergillus, but population groups including the elderly, cancer patients, and the immunosuppressed of all ages are at greater risk of serious illness which destroys the lungs.

Lead author , a Wellcome Trust research fellow at 51福利社 said: 鈥淲e are all very excited about olorofim but when we found out that regulatory approval was sought for ipflufenoquin and its mode of action was same as olorofim, we immediately felt alarmed.

鈥�Making a novel fungicide for humans is very difficult and costs millions of pounds.

鈥淏ut it is desperately needed, as the few classes of drugs for Aspergillus infection available at present don鈥檛 give all of the seriously ill patients a viable treatment option.

鈥淭hat is why olorofim is such an exciting prospect for patients and why we must lobby the regulatory authorities to implement a risk assessment strategy for the dual use of antifungals in agriculture and clinic.鈥�

But indirect implications to human health are not taken into account during the approval process, which is why researchers, collaborators, and clinical teams are lobbying hard for the authorities to risk assess any new fungicide.

Corresponding author Prof Mike Bromley, who is a former employee of F2G Limited and co-lead of the Fungal AMR and One Health Network, said: 鈥淚t is devastating that the efforts that so many have made in development of olorofim are being put at risk by the lack of appropriate legislation that would prevent the release of fungicides without consideration of the risks to driving drug resistance in human pathogens.

鈥淲e have made our views clear to the Environmental Protection Agency in the USA and hope they will re-evaluate their approach to environmental release of fungicides.

Politicians in the House of Lords recently a question by Baroness Bennett of Manor Castle, which asked the Government what assessment they made of how the UK鈥檚 current agricultural fungicide use will affect long-term food and biological security.

Baroness Bennett, a former leader of the Green Party, told the chamber: 鈥淢anaging fungal crop disease has always been essential to our ability to feed the population, but we cannot afford a haphazard, piecemeal approach that will hurt our public health and our NHS.

鈥淲e need integrated, 鈥渙ne health鈥� considerations of the impact of the climate emergency and responsible fungicide legislation.鈥�

Baroness Hayman of Ullock and Baroness Walmsley also spoke in the debate, and highlighted the specific case of olorofim and ipflufenoquin as they called for more robust risk assessments in the licensing of new agricultural antifungals.

• F2G carried out a single assay in the study that the researchers would otherwise have not been able to facilitate. However, the vast majority of the study was carried out independently.
• The paper Aspergillus fumigatus strains that evolve resistance to the agrochemical fungicide ipflufenoquin in vitro are also resistant to olorofim is available

The Chancellor visited the High Voltage Lab 鈥� the largest university high voltage laboratory in the UK - where he was given a guided tour by Ian Cotton, Professor of High Voltage Technology, to showcase the University鈥檚 work in the areas of operation, planning and analysis of energy networks.

The tour started with a demonstration of the Lab鈥檚 2MV impulse generator, which allows researchers to stress test equipment used on the grid by creating real-life lightning voltages. He then moved on to discuss the work of the lab, addressing three critical issues:

• Fast-tracking network upgrades by developing and testing new, innovative technologies ready for deployment onto the live electricity networks.
• Ensuring the power system is ready to transfer increased amounts of generation from new, renewable sources like wave power.
• Making the grid secure and ensuring the UK has access to reliable, affordable, and environmentally sustainable energy.

The Chancellor also had the chance to chat to a number of PhD students, whose work is also actively contributing to the reform of the system and find out how the University is contributing to the skills pipeline integral for the future of the power network.

In a closed-door meeting, energy experts at the University got the chance to ask the Chancellor questions and share their feedback about the government鈥檚 plans for the power network, including putting forward their own ideas for the future.

, Professor of High Voltage Technology at 51福利社, said: 鈥淚t was a pleasure to host the Chancellor at the High Voltage Lab to showcase the work we are doing to solve the real-world challenges associated with ensuring the grid is ready to transfer the increased amounts of electrical energy we need to deliver net-zero.

鈥淲e really enjoyed sharing our unique skills, knowledge and equipment that we use to solve these problems and show how we are training a new generation of engineers to transform our energy system.

鈥淭he visit provided an invaluable opportunity to engage in insightful discussions regarding the Government's latest initiatives aimed at reforming the UK鈥檚 power network.鈥�

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jeremy Hunt, added: 鈥淲e are committed to transforming the Great British electricity network. The changes announced at Autumn Statement make it quicker and easier to build new infrastructure and could bring in upwards of 拢90 billion of global investment.

鈥淐utting edge facilities at our world-beating universities, such as the fantastic High Voltage Lab, will be at the forefront of this effort, leading the charge on the UK鈥檚 transition to Net Zero.鈥�

The High Voltage Lab at 51福利社 is the largest electrical infrastructure test and research facility in UK academia. From the 拢9m lab, researchers collaborate with small businesses, large industry organisations and governments worldwide, sharing skills, knowledge and equipment to solve critical, real-world problems.

The lab uses the very latest equipment, capable of testing components that will be used on 400 kV power systems, enabling researchers to find new ways to innovate at pace.

The University is home to the largest power and energy system group in the UK, training 300 electrical engineers a year and supporting 150 PhD researchers in electrical power ensuring a new generation of engineers skilled to transform our energy system.

,  Senior Lecturer in Electric and Electronic Engineering, said: 鈥淭he High Voltage Lab and our expertise plays a major part in the technology, innovation and skills supply chain needed for our net zero future.  From finding innovative ways to maintain the thousands of pylons across the grid, to de-risking superconductors for future power transmission, we work on a range of projects at all technology readiness levels to make sure we maximise the potential of both the equipment and our research expertise, to accelerate the development of our future electrical network.鈥�

Find out more about the and .

鈼�&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫; 拢160 million of public funding to boost growth of city-region鈥檚 advanced manufacturing and materials sector.

鈼�&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫; Investments worth over 拢10m from manufacturers Kadant, Werit, First Graphene and Hydrograph unveiled as part of Investment Zone.

A new Investment Zone for Greater 51福利社, announced by the Chancellor in today鈥檚 Autumn Statement, is expected to create 32,000 jobs and leverage 拢1.1 billion of private sector investment.

The Investment Zone will provide 拢160 million in public funding over 10 years to support initiatives and interventions agreed between Greater 51福利社 and Government, which will include new research and innovation, sector-focussed skills programmes, local infrastructure enhancements, and targeted business support.

Greater 51福利社鈥檚 Investment Zone will focus on the advanced materials and manufacturing sector. The package will support established strengths, including, a joint venture between 51福利社 and and other assets in the city-region core, and build on longer-term ambitions to be able to scale up and deploy innovations in our growth businesses, for example through Atom Valley.

ID 51福利社 will become a world-class innovation platform that drives inclusive and sustainable economic growth for the city by leveraging the unique experience and expertise of its joint venture partners, combining 51福利社's long history of industry collaboration and world-class research strengths with Bruntwood SciTech's experience of working in strategic partnership with city councils, universities and NHS Trusts to deliver connected science and technology infrastructure.

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater 51福利社, said: 鈥淭he Investment Zone will help us attract investment and create jobs and opportunities that will benefit people across Greater 51福利社. Our city-region has been a centre for manufacturing and materials innovation for centuries, from leading the Industrial Revolution right through to the development of graphene, and the Investment Zone will ensure that continues.

鈥淚t鈥檚 also a vote of confidence in devolution and its ability to deliver levelling up. Providing more flexibility and local control over spending can help unlock Greater 51福利社鈥檚 potential.鈥�

, Vice-President for Regional Innovation and Civic Engagement at 51福利社, said: 鈥�51福利社 has been at the forefront of research in advanced materials and manufacturing, from the industrial revolution to the discovery of graphene, and we have a strong culture of innovation which builds on that research to create economic benefit. This announcement gives further impetus to the work we do with our partners in business and the city-region, to improve people鈥檚 lives through economic growth and improved productivity throughout Greater 51福利社.鈥� 

Greater 51福利社鈥檚 advanced manufacturing and materials sector comprises hundreds of innovative companies and the city-region鈥檚 universities host world-leading research and development. Advanced manufacturing alone employs approximately 110,000 people and generates around 拢8bn of economic output each year.

Government has also confirmed plans to extend the Made Smarter Adoption programme following its successful pilot in Greater 51福利社 and the North West, with a view to expanding the programme across the UK by 2027. The programme helps SME manufacturers adopt digital technologies to help improve productivity and reduce carbon emissions.

Cllr Bev Craig, Leader of 51福利社 City Council and Greater 51福利社 Lead for Economy, Business, and Inclusive Growth, said: 鈥淕reater 51福利社 has an attractive proposition, with world-leading advanced manufacturing and materials research at our universities, a strong skills base, and an existing ecosystem of innovative companies.

鈥淭he Investment Zone will build on that cluster, linking and investing in different sites across the city-region, and helping us translate research and development and new discoveries into business growth.鈥�

Speaking on behalf of ID 51福利社, John Holden, Associate Vice-President at 51福利社, said: "We鈥檙e delighted that ID 51福利社 will be part of the Greater 51福利社 Investment Zone plans to put the region at the forefront of advanced materials and manufacturing innovation in the UK and globally. The ecosystem we鈥檙e building at ID 51福利社 will leverage 51福利社鈥檚 world-class R&D strengths to help scale and commercialise new ideas, driving new jobs across the city region in future-facing industries. We look forward to working closely with our neighbouring centres of innovation in Greater 51福利社 to create valuable new opportunities for local residents and businesses across the North.鈥�

They have recognised the multiple set of actors and processes that need to combine in a successful innovation ecosystem to support founders in the journey from invention to forming a spin-out and then successfully scaling up the company. The Review鈥檚 recommendations provide important guidance on the pathway to building a world-leading innovation ecosystem that takes full advantage of national strengths across all of our areas of research excellence and of our regions.

The University will review its intellectual property policies and practice, in collaboration with our partners in the Northern Gritstone investment company, which was established as a positive response to the high concentration of VC funding in London to provide VC funding in the North. We recognise the distinction the report makes between intellectual property intensive areas such as the life sciences and the simpler pathway for some software commercialisation. We welcome the recommendation that the starting point in negotiations should be terms set out in the produced by the group of national and international leaders in university research commercialisation (of which 51福利社 is a member).

Innovation is a core theme for the University. Working through our technology transfer subsidiary, the , we have produced 16 spinouts in the past two years and were in equal first place for this number in 2021/22.

Examples of successes include:

路&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫; founded in 2021 to develop the treatment of a leading cause of blindness and other complement-related diseases. The company has been through two funding rounds raising 鈧�77m to work on clinical proof-of-concept. This recently won the

路&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫; , founded in 2018 which develops processes to manufacture sustainable biosurfactant products for use at commercial scale and has recently opened a commercial plant on a 90,000 sq ft site in Wallasey.

路&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫; currently in its second investment round which produces advanced membranes and innovative filtration systems for the production of valuable minerals (including Lithium) and clean water.

The University also supports student start-ups (typically 35 a year with 280 in operation, an 80% long-term survival rate) through our e. Students own their IP so concerns about equity stakes are irrelevant for this important part of the landscape.

A recent example of success is:

路&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫; , this month awarded The Spectator鈥檚 Innovator of the Year Award for Excellence in Sustainability recognising its groundbreaking developments in the use of graphene to produce a form of polymer-based concrete which reduces carbon emissions by 88%. The company has secured a $1 billion plus joint venture with the Qazar Investment Company to build a factory in the United Arab Emirates.

Our spin-outs benefit from the innovation ecosystem the University is working with partners to build including:

路&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫; which has raised 拢312m to invest in IP-rich start-ups (principally from the three founding universities: 51福利社, Sheffield and Leeds) in the North of England;

路&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫; , a 拢1.7 billion innovation district which will provide an ideal base for spin-outs and scale-ups to interact with large corporates; and

路&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫;&苍产蝉辫; Our extensive range of business-friendly facilities which give start-ups access to equipment and expertise normally only available to multinationals. These include the , , the , the and the .

The Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF) is an annual assessment by Research England of the ways English universities engage with society and the economy, locally, nationally, and internationally. This is the third iteration, known as KEF3. 

Intellectual property and commercialisation 

This year, the University achieved the maximum possible rating of very high engagement for intellectual property and commercialisation . 

The achievements of the University鈥檚 in licensing, intellectual property income, investment and turnover of spinouts, maintains 51福利社鈥檚 performance as a leading university for creating new businesses from research and other activity. 

Research partnerships and public and community engagement 

In both research partnerships and public and community engagement, 51福利社 was highly rated..  

51福利社鈥檚 performance in research partnerships, working with business, and working with the public and third sector recognises the work of its Business Engagement and Knowledge Exchange team through collaborative research with partners, contract research and consultancy. 

The University鈥檚 leading position in is demonstrated through our sustained commitment to , our Greater 51福利社 Civic University Agreement, innovative GM Citizens鈥� Panel, achievements in volunteering, festivals, mutual partnerships, citizen science, policy engagement, patient involvement in research, and engagement with communities through its cultural institutions 鈥� Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre, John Rylands Library, 51福利社 Museum, and the Whitworth Art Gallery.

The results in continuous professional development and graduate start-ups are underpinned by the work within the and . 

Professor Luke Georghiou, Deputy President and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, said: 鈥淜nowledge exchange is a core priority for 51福利社. We are delighted to see our achievements continue to be recognised in the KEF3 profile. We shall continue to ensure that our research, teaching and social responsibility activities benefit the economy and society at local, national and global level.鈥� 

Research England has published each university鈥檚 performance on on its website. 

Local residents, businesses and stakeholders are being invited to review the plans online from today, Friday 14 July. Throughout the summer, the public will have the opportunity to ask questions and share feedback through online channels and in-person community consultation events run by the ID 51福利社 partnership, a joint venture between 51福利社 and Bruntwood SciTech.

The ID 51福利社 partnership will be popping up in the city centre over the summer and holding a community event at Brunswick Parish Church on Wednesday 6 September. More information on the project and consultation activities can be found on the , along with an online questionnaire to submit feedback.

The newly published draft SRF sets out the scale, ambition and opportunities that ID 51福利社 brings to the city and includes a series of place-based principles that will guide detailed plans for development and future planning applications, and ensure the vision for ID 51福利社 to be recognised as one of the world鈥檚 leading applied innovation districts is realised.

Illustrative images of what the district could look like are shared in the SRF, including a new civic square, a revitalised Vimto Park and the repurposing of key heritage assets such as the Sackville Street and Renold buildings.

The SRF also details ID 51福利社鈥檚 aim to build a diverse and inclusive community of innovators, and transform what was a purpose-built academic campus into a welcoming and accessible new area of the city. Through creative repurposing of existing buildings and spaces, such as the Pariser and Renold buildings, a 鈥渕eanwhile鈥� use strategy has been implemented to bring early activation to the site ahead of redevelopment, with a mix of commercial office, lab and makerspace premises, pop-up retail and leisure spaces, events and programmed activities focused on science, technology, arts, culture and innovation.

Once completed, ID 51福利社 will create over 10,000 new jobs and bring significant economic, social and environmental benefits to the city. Totaling over 4 million sq ft, the illustrative masterplan has the potential to accommodate over 2 million sq ft of commercial and retail space, and over 1,500 homes.

The draft SRF for ID 51福利社 was approved for public consultation by 51福利社 City Council鈥檚 Executive Committee on 28 June 2023. The public consultation will run from 14 July 2023 until 8 September 2023. Feedback and responses gathered through the ID 51福利社 and events will be reported to 51福利社 City Council as part of the consultation process. Responses to the consultation can also be made directly to 51福利社 City Council via its .

Project partners 51福利社 and Bruntwood SciTech, a 50:50 joint venture between Bruntwood and Legal & General, have produced the SRF in collaboration with a world-class design team and specialist consultants, including: Allies and Morrison, SLA, Stanhope, Deloitte, ARUP, Stephen Levrant Heritage Architecture, Useful Projects, Ekosgen and Arcadis.

Speaking on behalf of Bruntwood SciTech, Lou Cordwell OBE, ID 51福利社 Director said: 鈥淲e鈥檙e very excited to share our proposed plans for ID 51福利社 and hear from the public on their ideas for this new district, particularly on how we can start to build a community through ID 51福利社 and bring early life to the site through our 鈥榤eanwhile鈥� activity. As well as becoming a world leading tech and science location that helps to put 51福利社 on the global innovation map, we want to create an exemplar for inclusive innovation. Close collaboration with local residents and businesses will be integral to ensuring communities across Greater 51福利社 benefit from the future success of ID 51福利社.鈥�

John Holden, Associate Vice-President for Major Special Projects, 51福利社 said: 鈥淭his is a key milestone in delivering our vision for ID 51福利社 and we鈥檙e excited to share our plans with the public. ID 51福利社 will see the transformation of the University's North campus, breathing new life into the site with a renewed purpose to drive positive economic, social and environmental change through innovation. For over a century, the site has been a centre for science, teaching and innovation, and ID 51福利社 will build on that history. We look forward to engaging with the public and the University鈥檚 stakeholders to hear their views on how ID 51福利社 can benefit residents and businesses across Greater 51福利社.鈥�

Bev Craig, Leader of 51福利社 City Council said: 鈥�51福利社 remains a fast growing and constantly changing city that puts people at its heart. ID 51福利社 will add to the collective strength, innovation and learning that has ensured the wider Oxford Road Corridor is a place of global renown. This is an opportunity for our residents to input and help guide this development through the pre-planning stages and influence the birth of a new neighbourhood in our city centre. I would urge our residents and businesses to make their voices heard.鈥�

Leading investors and universities have come together to launch the USIT Guide which aims to put rocket boosters under the way that the Higher Education sector spins out new companies that take advantage of research breakthroughs.

Many of this country鈥檚 most successful technology firms 鈥� Solexa, Oxford Nanopore, ARM 鈥� started off life as spin-outs from a university, and the publication鈥檚 authors believe many more will now be forthcoming.

This is an area that the UK already excels in. London鈥檚 universities, for example, are more efficient in turning research and development expenditure into spinout companies than many others. They produce a spinout for every 拢35.35 million invested in research and development compared with 拢60.42 million, 拢42.6 million and 拢54.5 million for Boston, Los Angeles and New York, respectively.

Between them the group behind the new guidance 鈥� which includes venture capitalist firms Abingworth, Sofinnova and Cambridge Investment Capital, and universities Oxford, Imperial and UCL 鈥� has helped set up 376 new companies in the last five years, raising over 拢8.6 billion in investment.

But the USIT Guide鈥檚 backers believe it can build on this success and allow both universities and venture capitalists to ramp up the whole process of setting up spin-outs by providing direction and advice in such areas as equity share and IP. As it stands, many of these deals are created from scratch, which is both inefficient and sometimes fails to learn the lessons from previous success stories.

The publication, which is supported by TenU, a group of university technology transfer offices in the UK and US, including MIT, Stanford and Columbia, reflects successful practice around the world.

Diarmuid O鈥橞rien, Chief Executive of Cambridge Enterprise and chair of the USIT Guide working group, said: 鈥淭he USIT Guide can unlock the full potential from UK universities research, helping to create more spin-outs faster and attracting increased venture investment. USIT can support our universities create the companies that can contribute to solving the great challenges of our time, from climate to health and the digital revolution.鈥�

Jessica Corner, the Executive Chair of Research England, which funded the initiative, said: 鈥淭he USIT Guide has come out of the deep professionalism and commitment of UK tech transfer offices to collaboration: sharing approaches internationally, and working with others 鈥� particularly investors 鈥� to make our ecosystem more effective.鈥�

Andrew Wilkinson, CEO of the University of 51福利社 Innovation Factory said: 鈥淭enU provides an invaluable informal platform to understand how national governments, investors and the Universities can collaborate together more effectively to ensure that the fantastic research from our world-leading institutions can create positive social, economic, and environmental impact.  Having members from the UK, the USA and mainland Europe enables us to identify the differences and similarities between the approaches we all take to IP commercialisation and dispel some of the misunderstandings about the way things are done and challenges in different geographies.鈥�

In the past three years, the University of 51福利社 Innovation Factory has helped UoM academics create 32 IP-rich spinouts (9 in 2019-20, 13 in 20-21, 10 in 21-22) and has generated licensing income of 拢13.85M from third party non-spinout licensees.  In addition, 拢9.8M in first-time investment into UoM spinouts has been secured, helping to grow these 51福利社-born spinouts.

Research from 51福利社 and other UK universities promises to be the engine room of the new economy. If universities partner effectively with business and government, these spinouts will generate significant wealth throughout the north of England, creating companies, employing people and raising productivity.

With a team of 44 and drawing on the research and expertise of the University鈥檚 academics and students, the Innovation Factory assesses and scopes research with IP potential and advises startups on critical legal, investment and asset management issues as they scale up.

A copy of The USIT Guide is .

UK-based Graphene Innovations 51福利社 Ltd (GIM), founded by University graduate Dr Vivek Koncherry, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with to create a new company in the UAE.

This exciting UK-UAE partnership - which highlights potential opportunity for UK innovators to access global investment and international markets and supply chains - will be one of the most ambitious projects to date to commercialise graphene as it fast-tracks cutting-edge R&D into large-scale manufacture 鈥� an investment vision worth a total of $1billion.

This new venture will develop and produce premium, environmentally-friendly products using advanced 2D materials, including breakthrough graphene-enhanced concrete that does not need cement or water and can be made using recycled materials.

Dr Vivek Koncherry, CEO of Graphene Innovations 51福利社, based in 51福利社鈥檚 (GEIC), said: "We are proud to be associated with Quazar so that we can assemble a powerful world-class team to provide us the opportunity to massively deploy our graphene-based technologies.鈥�

Waleed Al Ali, CEO of Quazar, who will be active in helping bring the new company to successful, large-scale commercialisation, said: "The new graphene company will take a global lead in making environmentally friendly concrete and other products. We are glad that Quazar can play an active role in helping fulfil the UAE's His Highness Sheikh Saeed Bin Hamdan Bin Mohamed Al Nahyan's support for the UAE Vision 2030鈥�.

James Baker, CEO of Graphene@51福利社, added: 鈥淭his agreement with our GEIC partner Graphene Innovations 51福利社 and Quazar is a seminal moment for the commercialisation of graphene as it demonstrates huge confidence in the potential for this advanced material to help lead our transition into a net zero world.

鈥淚t is also a very proud moment for the Graphene@51福利社 community as it confirms that our innovation ecosystem is providing exactly the right platform to nurture pioneering R&D into graphene and other 2D materials that is world-class.

鈥�51福利社 is known as the 鈥榟ome of graphene鈥� 鈥� but increasingly, it鈥檚 also being recognised as the home to its commercialisation potential. We are therefore able to form international partnerships, such as those in the UAE, based on this reputation; and from this position of strength we can place our city-region and the UK more generally into graphene鈥檚 global economy.

鈥淎s Greater 51福利社 further develops its innovation and manufacturing potential 鈥� all underpinned with the University鈥檚 leadership in advanced materials - this city-regional will have great opportunities with access to international supply chains, foreign investment and global markets.鈥�       

As part of this ambition a new 鈥楽ustainable Materials Translational Research Centre鈥� is set to be created by the multi-million pound Greater 51福利社 Innovation Accelerator programme. The new centre is a partnership with the University鈥檚, the, the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, and Rochdale Development Agency, and aims to connect local businesses to national opportunities, all underpinned with outstanding materials research.

The scheme is linked  to the zone and a said 鈥溾�� 51福利社's expertise in material science鈥� could potentially support a northern economic powerhouse.

Furthermore, the graphene innovation ecosystem at 51福利社 has recently been cited as an exemplar in attracting inward investment into the local regional economy 鈥� and therefore helping to boost the UK鈥檚 鈥榣evelling up鈥� agenda. The spotlight comes in a report entitled,   published by universities think-tank the Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI).

A strategic partnerships that is highlighted is the ambitious agreement between the University and Abu Dhabi-based Khalifa University of Science and Technology which aims to deliver a funding boost for graphene innovation to develop new sustainable technologies. Attracting international funding to the North-West is also helping the UK government level-up R&D spending across the nation.

The discovery follows 15 years of research and innovation using scientific methods and approaches that are more akin to medical research and rarely seen in cosmetic product development. The new peptide blend was developed using cutting edge British R&D across several fields of science and technology including advanced robotics, mathematical modelling, bioinformatics, machine learning, cell biology and cosmetic science.

鈥淲ith 87 years of innovation and scientific firsts, No7 prides itself on ensuring its products provide customers with exceptional results,鈥� said No7鈥檚 Head of Science Research Dr Mike Bell.  The new peptide blend effectively tricks the skin into thinking that it has been damaged to signal renewal of key proteins such as collagen and fibrillin to boost skin鈥檚 natural self-repair mechanisms, targeting signs of cumulative damage both on and under the surface. The result is a brand-new peptide blend which we believe will be a game changer for our consumers.

鈥淯nderpinning this discovery is No7鈥檚 long-standing research partnership with brilliant scientists at 51福利社. Together we utilised new state-of-the-art methodologies and techniques such as machine learning and bioinformatics to identify and screen naturally-occurring skin efficacious peptides 鈥� a first for the cosmetics industry.鈥�

Mike Sherratt, Professor of Biochemistry at 51福利社, comments: 鈥淭oday the field of peptide technology research is booming, with exciting new discoveries and applications being used in therapeutic medical settings as well as in cosmetic science. This novel and revolutionary peptide innovation could only have been developed from having a deep understanding of skin damage.鈥�

Five peer reviewed papers form the science backdrop to this latest innovation from No7 and 51福利社, with a further manuscript recently submitted to high impact science journal. Research presented at the American Academy of Dermatology鈥檚 annual conference in Louisiana revealed the new peptide blend is proven to enhance the expression of over 50 key skin proteins, including collagen and fibrillin, which support skin function and natural self-repair.  

No7鈥檚 new super peptide is set to be one of the most effective and tolerated skincare ingredients on the cosmetic market. Unlike retinoic acid, which is known by dermatologists to cause tolerance challenges such as skin sensitivity and redness, No7's new super peptide is both highly potent and also highly tolerated, being suitable even for those with sensitive skin. This paves the way to making gold standard skin repair available to even more people.

Cutting-edge Technology

Machine learning was utilised to identify naturally-occurring peptide sequences released from key skin molecules including collagens and elastic-fibre proteins, which were then tested using state-of-the-art omics techniques to characterise their skin remodelling activity and find the most powerful for deep down skin repair. 

Scientists evaluated thousands of possible peptide combinations to identify this new super peptide, a blend of two novel synthetic tetra-peptides, pal-GPKG and pal-LSVD, which mimic naturally occurring peptides in the skin to boost the skin鈥檚 natural self-repair function.

Robotic technology at the University of Liverpool鈥檚 Materials Innovation Factory and mathematical modelling techniques were used to optimise the formulation textures and delivery system for penetration of the peptides to where they are needed and work the best. As a result, penetration is predicted to be 50% better than existing formulations. 

The new super peptide technology has been met with excitement from the global scientific community with the technology due to be presented at three world leading scientific conferences this Spring including the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Conference in Louisiana, the British Society for Investigative Dermatology (BSID) Annual Meeting in Glasgow and the International Societies for Investigative Dermatology (ISID) meeting in Tokyo. 

Dr Matiss Ozols, formerly of 51福利社 and now based at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, comments: 鈥淎pplication of this peptide discovery pipeline to other tissues could profoundly advance the treatment of age-related diseases, providing novel treatments inspired by the body鈥檚 natural self-repair mechanisms. I鈥檓 excited by the possibilities!鈥�

This discovery builds on a long history of scientific innovation for No7; the brand was the first to prove that non-medical cosmetic products worked when the scientific efficacy of the No7 Protect and Perfect Serum was verified on BBC Horizon in 2007. In 2009 No7 was the first to publish a 12-month study on an anti-ageing cosmetic product showing clinical wrinkle improvements in a paper published in the British Journal of Dermatology.

Patent applications have been submitted and are pending for both the new peptides and the delivery system.

The ambitious innovation projects will provide critical insight and research to help inform the future development of a net zero energy system at the same time as delivering significant benefits to consumers. 

National Grid Electricity Transmission has been awarded 拢396,000 to fund the following projects, in which 51福利社 will be playing a vital role: 

• Superconductor OHLs: This project will investigate technology to increase power flow capability on existing overhead lines. Novel high temperature superconductor (HTS) technology could be implemented on existing lines, increasing power flow capability up to ten-fold at the same voltage level.  
• SF6 replacement strategy: Development of a long-term strategy to expedite the efficient rollout of SF6 replacements and remove the gas from the network at minimum cost to the consumer, with new builds and retro filling options considered across different asset profiles.  
• WELLNESS: A project to assess whole energy system resilience and develop a framework suited to the energy transition whilst protecting consumers 鈥� ensuring the network is reliable to known and credible threats, but also resilient to less frequent but more extreme disasters.  

Dr Vidyadhar Peesapati at 51福利社 said: 鈥淭he SIF programme provides a unique opportunity for us to continue our engagement with National Grid, in evaluating and de-risking a range innovations and solutions that will expedite the transition to net zero.鈥� 

Nicola Todd, Head of Strategy and Innovation at National Grid Electricity Transmission, added: 鈥淚t鈥檚 great to see National Grid leading the way with the sort of ambitious thinking needed to tackle some of the biggest challenges in energy. This funding will help drive progress on a raft of innovative projects, from new technologies to boost network capacity, to how we reduce our dependency on the greenhouse gas SF₆. 

鈥淲ork on these initiatives is helping to shape the future of Britain鈥檚 energy networks and accelerating the transition to net zero, at lowest cost to consumers.鈥� 

At 51福利社, our energy experts are committed to delivering an equitable and prosperous net zero energy future. By matching science and engineering, with social science, economics, politics and arts, the University鈥檚 community of 600+ experts address the entire lifecycle of each energy challenge, creating innovative and enduring solutions to make a difference to the lives of people around the globe. This enables the university鈥檚 research community to develop pathways to ensure a low carbon energy transition that will also drive jobs, prosperity, resilience and equality. 

Full details of the funding for Ofgem鈥檚 SIF scheme, which is managed in partnership with Innovate UK, can be found on its website at: