Training the next generation of scientists

Three doctoral programmes are training more than 90 researchers across biocatalysis, AI and microbial engineering, connecting fundamental science with industrial application.

Bridging science and scale

Biotechnology increasingly depends on researchers who can work across disciplinary boundaries and translate discoveries into industrial processes.

Researchers need to connect biology and chemistry with engineering, computation and data science, while understanding what changes when a process moves from the laboratory towards manufacture.

Three doctoral programmes involving Manchester are creating cohort-based training around these capabilities, with strong links between universities and industry.

Three routes to impact

• BioProcess develops expertise in biocatalysis and protein engineering, from enzyme discovery and AI-enabled optimisation through to industrial scale-up. Students are based across Manchester, York and Bristol and spend at least three months on company placement.

   

• BioAID will train the next generation of scientists in AI-empowered biocatalysis, addressing critical challenges in the development of sustainable solutions for pharmaceuticals, agri-tech and clean manufacturing. Led by Queen's University, Belfast with co-leads including Professor Sam Hay from the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, and the Universities of Edinburgh and Bristol.

   

• CODE-M focuses on engineering microbial cells and communities to address challenges spanning health, clean growth, food systems and the environment. Led by The University of Manchester, in partnership with the University of Liverpool.

Together, the programmes will fund more than 90 PhD places.