Regionally focussed innovation centres and initiatives
Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute Spans the whole spectrum of cancer research, integrating basic and clinical translational cancer research. Located next to, and integrated with, the Christie, the largest single-site cancer hospital in Europe.
Centre of Expertise in Advanced Materials and Sustainability (CEAMS) Supports regional manufacturers to develop and adopt sustainable materials. Component part of the Sustainable Materials Manufacturing Centre opening in Rochdale in 2026.
Christabel Pankhurst Institute A unique partnership between the University, NHS, business and local government, the Christabel Pankhurst Institute supports health technology research and innovation. It translates world-leading research across a spectrum of academic specialities, including digital technologies, AI and advanced materials, into innovative new products and services that tackle pressing health and care challenges. The Institute provides a front door to the Greater Manchester health innovation ecosystem.
Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC) Industry-led innovation centre that supports innovation in advanced materials by working in collaboration with industry partners to develop new applications of graphene and other 2D materials. The GEIC is a hub of research and commercialisation activities, bringing together early-stage, high-growth companies with large corporates and multinationals, to design, develop and scale the next generation of advanced materials products and processes.
Henry Royce Institute National institute for advanced materials research and innovation. Royce is taking an increasingly central leadership role developing the region's materials strategy as well as working directly with regional businesses.
Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Catalyst Engineering biology for a healthy, sustainable and prosperous future. Their research is enabling us to find new and more sustainable ways to produce chemicals, materials, and everyday products, by understanding and harnessing biological processes and applying them at industrial scales.
National Graphene Institute (NGI) National centre for 2D materials fundamental research, initially funded through locally devolved economic development funding. It has an important role in working with existing regional R&D companies and potentially attracting new companies at the R&D frontier to the region.
Productivity Institute UK-wide research organisation exploring what productivity means for business, workers and communities. North West Productivity Forum connects businesses and policymakers into the Institute's work.
Scale-Up Forum Peer-to-peer network for scale-up leaders to explore common challenges, share experiences, and connect with the University and partners support.
Sustainable Materials Innovation (SMI) Hub Located in the Henry Royce Institute, the SMI Hub works with businesses in and around Greater Manchester to create sustainability solutions for plastics use and end of life. It was established using devolved EU regional growth funding.
Manchester Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) Brings together The University of Manchester with six NHS Trusts covering Greater Manchester, Lancashire and South Cumbria with the aim of bridging gaps between new discoveries and individualised care.
