The Manchester Convention Bureau sat down with Dr Paul Morgan to discuss his experience in attracting conferences to Manchester and acting as an Mbassador for the city.
Can you start by telling us a bit about your background?
"Certainly. I'm a Senior Lecturer in Human Nutrition and Metabolism at Manchester Metropolitan University's Institute of Sport. I'm also a registered Sport and Exercise Nutritionist (SENr) and a BASES Accredited Sport and Exercise Scientist. My work primarily focuses on the interplay between exercise, diet, and human health, with a particular emphasis on protein metabolism. I hold a PhD from the University of Exeter, where my dissertation won the 2020 Professor Tom Reilly Doctoral Dissertation of the Year award. Before joining Manchester Met, I completed a post-doctoral fellowship at the University of Birmingham and gained practical experience working with Exeter City Football Club. My research uses innovative techniques to investigate sustainable protein sources and how they affect skeletal muscle, which is vital for understanding healthy ageing and athletic performance."
Can you tell us about the conference that you’re hosting in Manchester?
"I'm excited to be hosting the British Society for Research on Ageing (BSRA) Annual Scientific Meeting in 2025, here in Manchester. The conference, titled 'BSRA 2025,' will take place from the 3rd to the 5th of September. It takes place on campus at Manchester Metropolitan University University Business School and the brand new Dalton Building - both of which are state-of-the-art environments with outstanding facilities and social spaces. The conference will focus on 'The Biology of Ageing.' We'll be covering a range of important topics, including interventions to combat human biological ageing, genetic and epigenetic hallmarks of ageing, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal implications of ageing, and cellular senescence, damage, and proteostasis. We're expecting over 200 delegates, including keynote speakers, lay members, and sponsor representatives from around the globe. It's a fantastic opportunity to showcase the latest research and foster international collaboration in this critical field."
What benefits will the conference bring to your university, your community, and you personally?
"This conference offers a multitude of benefits. For the university, it's a chance to enhance its academic standing and global recognition, attract talent, and foster interdisciplinary collaboration. It also offers a boost to institutional reputation and credibility. The local community will benefit from an economic boost of c.£450,000 as delegates visit hotels, restaurants, and other businesses.
From a research perspective, the conference facilitates knowledge sharing, networking, and the promotion of cutting-edge research in the biology of ageing. It also strengthens ties with industry partners and provides a platform for public engagement.
Personally, it's an opportunity for professional development, to gain leadership experience, and to connect with leading experts in my field. Hosting a conference of this scale is a significant career milestone and allows me to contribute directly to the advancement of research on ageing."
What strengths does Manchester Met have in your field?
"Manchester Met has a long and distinguished history in sport science, particularly in applied sport sciences, clinical sciences, psychology, biomechanics, and sports coaching. However, our strongest reputation is arguably in nutrition and metabolism and physiology. We have world-leading facilities and staff within the Institute of Sport, which houses the Department of Sport and Exercise Science. These facilities enable us to conduct cutting-edge research on a wide range of exercise and health-related issues, from supporting elite athletic performance to promoting healthy ageing.
Our strengths also lie in our comprehensive academic programmes, positive student feedback, state-of-the-art facilities, and strategic partnerships with industry leaders like Manchester United Football Club, Manchester City Football Club, Manchester Thunder, Sale Sharks, and British Para Swimming. All these contribute to our reputation for research excellence."
What do you consider to be Manchester’s strengths as a conference destination?
"Manchester is an exceptional conference destination for several reasons. It's a vibrant, contemporary, and culturally diverse city, which makes it an attractive location for delegates. Its central location in the UK, coupled with excellent connectivity and accessibility, makes it easy for attendees to travel to and from the city. Manchester also boasts world-class conference venues and a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. The city's rich industrial heritage, combined with its modern amenities and thriving arts and culture scene, provides a unique and engaging experience for conference attendees."
What support did you receive from the Manchester Convention Bureau and what does being an Mbassador mean to you?
"The support from the Manchester Convention Bureau has been transformational. They've been instrumental at every stage of the conference organisation, providing expert guidance on event planning, accommodation booking, delegate services, marketing, promotion, and logistical support. They also helped us access local networks, which has been invaluable. Olivia and Ant have been fantastic to work with!
Furthermore, the Manchester Metropolitan University Conference and Events team provided invaluable assistance throughout the planning process, contributing their expertise and ensuring a seamless experience.
Being an Mbassador for the Manchester Convention Bureau is a true honour. It allows me to represent the university and city on a global stage, showcasing the incredible work being done here in Manchester, particularly within our Institute of Sport. I'm thrilled that the Manchester Convention Bureau is already working with us to attract a strong portfolio of national and international conferences for future years, which will be crucial in ensuring our Institute's research is showcased to a worldwide audience."