Advancing the science of graphene and 2D materials
The NGI supports pioneering research into graphene and 2D materials, helping to generate the knowledge and discoveries that will shape the technologies of the future.
A unique environment for scientific discovery
Purpose-built 1,500 sq m of class five and six cleanrooms, laboratories, and specialist equipment provide researchers and collaborators with the tools needed to investigate, develop and test new materials and technologies.
Bringing together expertise, facilities and partners
The NGI creates opportunities for researchers, industry and international collaborators to work together, combining scientific expertise, facilities and shared knowledge to explore emerging science, solve challenges and accelerate innovation.
Bringing together expertise, facilities and collaboration, the NGI provides the foundations for breakthroughs in graphene and 2D materials, accelerating discovery and enabling future innovation.
Collaboration is key at the NGI. More than 100 companies have partnered with The University of Manchester, combining scientific expertise, specialist facilities and shared ambition to advance graphene and 2D materials research through activities including:
Exploring new scientific opportunities and emerging applications
Advancing research into graphene and other 2D materials
Developing technologies that address industrial and societal challenges
Accessing world-leading facilities, equipment and expertise
Supporting standards, quality assurance and responsible innovation
Our impact
The discovery of graphene at The University of Manchester helped establish a global field of research that continues to advance science, industry and innovation. Today, expertise developed within the NGI supports breakthroughs across areas including healthcare, sustainable technologies, advanced materials and clean water, helping translate research into real-world impact.
Speak to our experts
Professor Rahul Nair
Professor of Materials Physics
Professor Rahul Nair's research focuses on graphene and 2D material membranes for molecular separation, water purification and energy-efficient filtration technologies. His work is helping to address global challenges in sustainable water treatment, clean energy and resource recovery.
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Professor Roman Gorbachev
Professor of Condensed Matter Physics
Professor Roman Gorbachev leads research into the fabrication and application of graphene and other 2D materials for next-generation electronic, photonic and quantum devices. His work is helping to advance scalable technologies that could underpin future communications, computing and sensing applications.
Hey, you just created a text paragraph! Somebody once said that the pen is mightier than the sword — and that was in 1839. Just imagine, with the power of cutting-edge content experiences and the ability to distribute your content around the world in mere seconds, writing this paragraph could be one of the most influential things you ever do!
Professor Sarah Haigh
Professor of Materials Characterisation
Professor Sarah Haigh specialises in advanced electron microscopy and the characterisation of graphene, nanomaterials and layered materials. Her research provides vital insight into how materials behave at the atomic scale, supporting innovation across energy, electronics and advanced manufacturing.
Dr Marcelo Lozada Hidalgo
Royal Society University Research Fellow
Professor Marcelo Lozada-Hidalgo's research explores how graphene and other 2D materials can be used to control the movement of protons and ions. His work is creating new possibilities for hydrogen technologies, sustainable energy systems and next-generation separation processes.