The University of Manchester

With the challenge of climate change very much at the top of political, social and economic agendas, The University of Manchester’s Institute of Biotechnology is at the forefront of designing a sustainable future for the UK and countries across the world. Founded in 2006, the Institute is an industry-facing research establishment and the first university-based and purpose-built interdisciplinary research unit of its kind in the UK.

The Institute is leading the UK’s strategic development of biomanufacturing and embraces the latest in pharma research to create best-in-class drug candidates, chemicals, advanced materials and biofuels. It is at the epicentre of industrial biotechnology in the UK and plays an essential role in getting these technologies to market, building capability and tackling supply chain challenges. It operates some 80 cross-campus collaborations and attracts substantial UK Research Council funding and other support.

The activity is extensive and includes synthetic biology of fine and speciality chemicals (at its Synbiochem Centre), biocatalysis and biotransformation (with the national catalysis hub at Harwell), microbial strain engineering and renewable gaseous fuels. Experts at the University are looking to develop disruptive bio-based technologies that will transition chemicals manufacture from petrochemicals to sustainable biomanufacturing by connecting the University’s strengths in discovery science directly with industrial partners. This highly innovative work has contributed to the University’s global top ranking for industry partnerships and inward investment in this field.