Prof Tomasz Liskiewicz is Professor of Tribology and Surface Engineering and Head of the Department of Engineering at Manchester Metropolitan University. He is a highly experienced academic and engineer with 20 years of international expertise in surface engineering and tribology, from leading research institutions in the UK, France, Canada and Poland. His research focuses on optimising engineering coatings for enhanced functionality, and he has published extensively in leading journals and presented at major international conferences. The Manchester Convention Bureau sat down Prof Liskiewicz to discuss his experience in acting as an Mbassador for the city and attracting the EAN Annual Congress 2025, the flagship event of the Engineering Professors’ Council, to Manchester.
Can you start by telling us a bit about your background and what initially drew you to Manchester?
“My background is in materials science and engineering, with over 20 years of international experience spanning both academia and industry. My research has focused on optimising engineering coatings to enhance performance and durability across a range of applications, from manufacturing to biomedical engineering. A key aspect of my work is tribology, the study of friction, wear, and lubrication, which is critical in designing more efficient and durable surfaces for mechanical systems.
Manchester is an ideal place for someone in my field. It has a rich industrial heritage, a strong engineering ecosystem, and a research-intensive environment, particularly in materials science and advanced manufacturing. Manchester Metropolitan University’s commitment to applied research and strong industry partnerships made it an excellent fit for me both professionally and personally.”
Can you tell us about the conferences and events that you’ve been involved in attracting to Manchester?
“Most recently, I was involved in bringing the Engineering Academic Network Annual Congress to Manchester, the flagship event of the Engineering Professors’ Council (EPC). This event, co-organised with colleagues from the University of Manchester, will bring together engineering leaders from academia, industry, and policy to discuss the future of engineering education and research.
Beyond this, I’ve been engaged in organising and supporting tribology, materials science, and surface engineering events, collaborating with institutions such as the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3), the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), and the Institute of Physics (IOP). Hosting such events reinforces Manchester’s reputation as a hub for engineering innovation.”
What benefits will the EAN Congress bring to your university, your community, and you personally?
“The EAN Congress 2025 will be a significant event for Manchester Metropolitan University, reinforcing its position as a leading institution in engineering education and research. By hosting this flagship event, the university will gain increased visibility within the engineering academic community, fostering new collaborations and strengthening ties with both industry and policy stakeholders. For the wider community, the congress will bring together leading figures from academia, industry, and government, creating opportunities for knowledge exchange and networking. Personally, being involved in attracting and organising the congress presents an invaluable opportunity to engage with leading experts in engineering education, influence discussions on key challenges facing the field, and establish meaningful professional connections.”
You lead the Engineering Department. How does hosting scientific conferences contribute to the department's success, and what are Manchester Met's strongest areas of engineering expertise that position it well for these events?
“Hosting high-profile scientific conferences is instrumental in strengthening the department’s academic influence. These events provide a platform for our researchers and PhD students to engage directly with leading experts, facilitating collaboration and knowledge exchange. They also create visibility for the department’s research outputs, helping to attract industrial partnerships, funding opportunities, and high-calibre academics and students. By bringing cutting-edge discussions to Manchester Met, these conferences contribute to the advancement of engineering knowledge and position the university as an important player in shaping the future of the discipline.
Manchester Met’s engineering expertise makes it particularly well-suited for hosting such events. The department has a strong focus on advanced materials and smart energy systems, which are critical to a range of industries. Biomedical engineering is another key area of strength, with research focusing on materials for medical implants and devices. Furthermore, our work in smart infrastructure and energy systems aligns with the global push towards sustainability and resilient engineering solutions. These research areas, combined with Manchester’s industrial legacy and modern innovation ecosystem, make the university a prime location for hosting international scientific conferences.”
What support did you receive from the Manchester Convention Bureau and the Man Met conference & events team?
“The Manchester Convention Bureau and the Manchester Met conference events team provided invaluable support throughout the process of securing and planning the EAN Congress 2025. Their expertise in bid preparation was instrumental in presenting a strong case for Manchester as the ideal host city, ensuring that all aspects of the proposal aligned with the expectations of the organising committee. They also played a key role in identifying and securing suitable venues that would accommodate the needs of delegates, providing guidance on logistics, accessibility, and infrastructure.
Beyond the practical aspects, their support extended to promotion and marketing, helping to maximise visibility and engagement within the academic and professional engineering communities. Their professional AND collaborative approach combined with a deep knowledge of event organisation made the entire process significantly more efficient, demonstrating why Manchester continues to be a top choice for hosting major academic and professional conferences.”
What does being an Mbassador mean to you, and what would be your key message to academics considering bidding to host events in Manchester?
“Being an Mbassador is both an honour and a responsibility. It means playing an active role in showcasing Manchester as a leading centre for engineering and academic excellence, while also ensuring that key conversations take place in a city with a strong industrial and educational heritage.
To academics considering bidding for events in Manchester, my key message would be: Go for it! The city has everything you need—world-class research institutions, excellent infrastructure, and a welcoming professional network. Plus, with the Manchester Convention Bureau’s support, the process is much more manageable than you might think. Hosting a conference here is an opportunity to elevate your research, expand your professional influence, and make a lasting impact on your field.”
