Advanced Materials

Complimenting the city’s innovation and expertise in graphene, Manchester is home to an advanced materials cluster with research strengths in technical textiles, surfaces and coatings, composites and light alloys. Europe’s largest school of materials is based at the University of Manchester.

Manchester is also creating an innovation ecosystem where scientists, manufacturers, engineers and innovators can collaborate. At the core of the ecosystem are:

The National Graphene Institute (NGI)

£61 million has been invested into the NGI at the University of Manchester which is focused on research into the applications of graphene. Over 40 companies are already working with over 200 researchers to shape the materials future development.

Graphene Engineering innovation Centre (GEIC)

Opened in December 2018, the GEIC is critical for the development of commercial applications for graphene and other 2D materials. It is the University of Manchester’s second facility and focuses on pilot production and commercialisation within the industry. Combined with the NGI, this gives Manchester a globally unrivalled concentration of graphene expertise.

The Henry Royce Institute

The Institute is the UK’s National Institute for Materials Science Research and Innovation. Research specialisms will include 2D materials, advanced metals processing and atoms to devices. The Institute gives businesses access to state of the art equipment and facilities.

Sector Support

Get in touch with the team today to find out how we can introduce you to Manchester’s experts in our community to explore opportunities for hosting events.

Sector ambassadors