A University of Manchester undergraduate has won second place in the Cambridge Edge AI Innovation for Sustainability Challenge 2026 with a concept designed to improve early wildfire detection whilst reducing reliance on energy-intensive data centres.

PyroWatch, developed by Computer Science student Marwan Barakat Abdelfattah, proposes a network of affordable devices that can analyse local weather and environmental conditions to help predict wildfire risk and support faster response.

The project was named runner-up in the national competition, which challenged UK university students to design AI systems that can learn from each other without exchanging raw data between edge nodes or uploading raw data to the cloud.

Marwan received a £2,000 prize for his second-place finish.

How PyroWatch works

Wildfires are becoming an increasingly urgent sustainability challenge, with devastating consequences for communities, livelihoods, food production, public health and carbon emissions. PyroWatch was inspired by the growing visibility of wildfires in places such as California, as well as the need for more accessible tools that could help governments, fire services, local authorities and businesses prepare for and respond to fires earlier.

The concept uses solar-powered devices with batteries to run small AI models close to where data is generated. By processing information locally rather than relying on constant data transmission to central servers, the system is designed to reduce communications, energy use and dependence on data centres.

Unlike some existing wildfire monitoring approaches, which can depend on expensive thermal cameras and fixed infrastructure, PyroWatch is intended to be low-cost, scalable and deployable across high-risk landscapes, industrial sites and remote locations. Marwan said the system could also learn from local coordinates and previous fire conditions to estimate where risks may emerge or continue.

Marwan Barakat Abdelfattah said: “Being selected as a finalist and winning second place means a lot. It was the first time I had produced an independent research document of this kind, and I learned so much through the process. It showed me how much work researchers put into producing credible ideas that could make a real-world difference.”

The Cambridge Edge AI Innovation for Sustainability Challenge 2026 is hosted by MICROP Inc. and its sister company Arculus System in partnership with the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL). The competition invited students to explore AI approaches that keep data local, operate within limited computing and energy resources, and exchange knowledge to create collective intelligence across distributed systems.

James Yang, CEO and Co-founder of MICROIP Inc. and Arculus System, said: "Well done to the talented creator behind Pyro Watch on a brilliant individual submission. The creativity shown in tackling real-world environmental monitoring and thermal management through intelligent, localized AI design is highly commendable. It is inspiring to see such fresh thinking from a solo innovator, and this unique perspective holds great promise for shaping a safer, more sustainable future."

Viola Jardon, Head of Innovation Programmes at CISL, said: “The future of AI cannot simply be about using more data, more computing power and more energy to become smarter. The real innovation challenge is how we create greater intelligence within real-world constraints. This challenge was all about giving the next generation of UK talent the opportunity to explore AI that can collaborate while keeping data local, use resources more intelligently, and ultimately deliver more sustainable outcomes.”

Further information is available at: Cambridge Edge AI Innovation for Sustainability Challenge 2026 [cisl.cam.ac.uk].

The challenge, now in its third year, saw teams of Year 10 and 11 pupils spend four weeks developing metal-detecting robotic systems before returning to the University's Nancy Rothwell Building for a series of live detection challenges.

The competition is inspired by research carried out by the University's electromagnetic sensing team and gives young people hands-on experience of electronics engineering while highlighting the real-world challenge of detecting buried landmines and other hidden objects underground. It also aims to inspire more young people to consider careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Teams started with an introductory workshop in June, where they received their robot kits and took part in practical engineering sessions, careers talks and got the chance to meet and ask questions to professionals from across the electrical engineering sector. They were then paired with University of Manchester undergraduate mentors, who visited their schools to help guide teams through the design and build process.

The competition culminated in a final event on 14 July, with pupils putting their creations to the test in a series of practical arena challenges designed to assess their detection and engineering skills.

Co-op Academy Swinton took first place overall. St Ambrose Barlow RC High School were named runners-up and Chorlton High School South received the award for ‘Best Presentation’, all receiving specially engraved trophies.

Competition led, Dr Michael O’Toole said: “Manchester Minesweeper challenge gives pupils the chance to take on a genuine engineering challenge and build something that works in the real world.

“Over the course of four weeks, they learn about electronics, problem-solving, teamwork and design, while working alongside current engineering students who help them develop their ideas and gain confidence that university and a career in STEM could be within their reach."

InstMC Vice-President Dave Green said: “It's incredibly rewarding to see the creativity, determination and technical skills that the teams develop, and we hope the experience encourages some of them to consider studying engineering or another STEM subject in the future.”

The initiative was originally established with support from a Royal Academy of Engineering Ingenious award. For the first time this year, it was supported by leading local engineering businesses through the sponsorship of the Institute of Measurement Control (Central Northwest), Endress+Hauser, Technical Partners, and Tetra Tech Consulting, whose representatives joined the final event and helped judge the competition.

The milestone marks the largest level of participation in the campaign's history, having launched in 2016. This demonstrates the growing global appetite for teachers to upskill in how to engage 5–14-year-olds in practical science learning in schools.

Teachers and their pupils have been involved in thinking about scientific questions that interest them. Time has been dedicated to encouraging them to plan and undertake investigations, gathering evidence and drawing conclusions on topics ranging from nature, weather, motion and materials.

Under the annual theme 'Globally Curious', the pupils’ questions have demonstrated creativity, curiosity and wonder.

• Which is the smallest animal that makes the biggest difference in our environment?
• What do ants like to eat the most?
• How does friction affect the distance a car travels?
• How do different exercises affect your heart rate?
• How do my clothes shed microfibres and does it matter?

Teachers and educators across the globe get involved in many ways. As an inclusive campaign, sharing events take place in schools, gardens, zoos, hospital schools and community spaces.  This year saw the campaign expand its reach into Slovenia and Spain, with bespoke training for teachers and translated materials that increasingly support engagement globally.

Brompton-Westbook Primary in Kent was the school that took registrations beyond the million mark. Claire Hofer, the school’s Science Lead, said Great Science Share for Schools has enabled their pupils and teachers to do more enquiry-based science, which they share with other pupils at a showcase event at the Discovery Park in Sandwich.

Similarly, The University of Manchester welcomed 31 schools from across Greater Manchester to its Nancy Rothwell Building for a large in-person event, where pupils showcased their investigations and discoveries with the Lord Mayor encouraging them on.

The Great Science Share for Schools campaign was founded by Professor Lynne Bianchi, Vice Dean for Social Responsibility at The University of Manchester, to elevate the prominence of science in the classroom through learner-led enquiry, inclusive participation and collaboration.

Professor Bianchi said: “2026 is a truly great year for GSSfS by reaching this huge milestone. This makes a huge difference to teachers and young people, as well as showing that there is keen interest to raise the profile of science education for all. As the University’s From Manchester for the world 2035 strategy really takes pace, GSSfS models our values towards social responsibility and widening participation.”

Grace Marson, Campaign Manager for Great Science Share for Schools, added: “We are really proud that the campaign continues to grow as this means it is continuing to support teachers to upskill their own knowledge and develop pupils’ confidence in science enquiry.”

As participation surpasses one million pupils for the first time, the achievement comes amid a new Royal Society report, calling for stronger support for public engagement with science, technology, engineering and mathematics subjects, highlighting the growing importance of initiatives such as Great Science Share for Schools.

The four-year programme brings together academic research and structured enterprise training, supporting postgraduate researchers to explore how their work can be developed into real-world applications.

It is designed to sit alongside traditional doctoral study, giving researchers the opportunity to develop their ideas beyond the lab. Alongside their research, participants will work with mentors to build entrepreneurial skills and gain practical experience, exploring areas such as technology readiness, market need and venture development.

The PhD remains rooted in original research, culminating in a doctoral thesis, but also includes a business plan as part of the final submission, supporting the aspiration that new commercial or social enterprises may be launched during or following the PhD.

Professor Aline Miller, Associate Vice-President for Enterprise at The University of Manchester, said: “This is something new for us, and it’s been really encouraging to see the range of ideas that have come forward.

“These projects show how much potential there is to take research in new directions and think about how it can be used beyond academia.

“We’re looking forward to working with the students who join the programme and supporting them as they develop both their research and the wider impact possibilities around it.”

Following an internal call for proposals from academic supervisors, 11 projects have been selected, spanning healthcare, artificial intelligence, sustainability and advanced materials. Five fully funded studentships will be available for 2026/27, with a further cohort planned for 2027/28.

• Genome safeguarding technologies for synthetic phage therapeutics against multidrug resistant bacterial infections – led by Professor Michael Brockhurst, this project develops safer engineered virus-based therapies for drug-resistant infections, helping make next-generation antimicrobial treatments more controllable and widely usable.

• Automated Blink-Dynamics Analytics: AI System Development and Translational Planning – led by Dr Claudia Lindner, this project develops an AI-based system for analysing eye movement to support earlier, non-invasive detection of diabetic neuropathy and enable scalable screening.

• Realtime 3D analytics for reducing laboratory animal suffering – led by Dr Riccardo Storchi, this project uses AI-powered video analytics to continuously monitor laboratory animals, enabling earlier detection of distress and improving welfare in real time.

• Autologous tumour-derived nanocarriers for precision drug delivery in Glioblastoma – led by Dr Christos Tapeinos, this project develops patient-specific nanocarriers to improve targeted drug delivery and treatment effectiveness in aggressive brain tumours.

• Infrared quantum cascade laser microscopy for invasive bladder cancer (IQ-Scan) – led by Professor Peter Gardner, this project develops advanced imaging technology to improve the accuracy and objectivity of bladder cancer diagnosis and staging from biopsy samples.

• Field-Deployable Genotyping for Animal Health and Biosurveillance – led by Dr Lu Shin Wong, this project develops rapid, portable diagnostic tools for detecting animal infections in the field, supporting faster responses to disease outbreaks and improving biosecurity.

• Biotech-enabled lures for sustainable food production – led by Dr Christopher Blanford, this project develops biological scent-based systems to manage insect behaviour in agriculture, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides.

• Developing and Commercialising a UAV Perching Technology for Extended Infrastructure Inspection – led by Professor Andrew Weightman, this project develops drone perching technology to extend inspection time and improve monitoring of critical infrastructure.

• Engineering and Translating Graphene-Based Vortex-Ring Aerogels for Industrial Water Purification and Carbon Capture – led by Professor Aravind Vijayaraghavan, this project develops scalable graphene-based materials to remove pollutants from water and improve carbon capture efficiency.

• AIDE: Agentic Intelligence for Decision-making in Investment and Enterprise – led by Professor Richard Allmendinger, this project develops AI systems to support complex investment and innovation decision-making by integrating financial, company and market data into a unified workflow.

• Injectable radiopaque self-assembling hydrogels for biomedical applications – led by Dr James Warren, this project develops injectable biomaterials to support earlier intervention and improved outcomes in conditions such as osteoarthritis.

The programme is a joint initiative between the research and innovation teams within the University, working in partnership with the Doctoral Academies, the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre and the Innovation Factory. Doctoral researchers will be registered within, and supported by, their relevant Faculty Doctoral Academy, ensuring strong academic oversight and integration within existing doctoral structure.  

To find out more about the programme, the projects on offer and see how to apply visit: https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/funding/phd-by-enterprise/

The visit offered the chance to hear directly from the scholars about their experiences at university, how the bursary is supporting them day to day, and the aspirations they are developing for life beyond their studies.

Conversations reflected a wide range of academic interests and career ambitions, with many scholars pointing to the importance of financial security in allowing them to fully engage with their education and the wider opportunities available at university, including involvement in student societies.

The Sadler Bursary provides funding for up to 36 undergraduates for each year of their course.

This programme supports care‑experienced students, providing £10,000 per year for the full duration of their degree. Care‑experienced young people continue to be significantly under‑represented in higher education, with around 15 per cent progressing to university compared with 47 per cent of their non‑care‑experienced peers. The bursary aims to help address this imbalance by reducing financial pressure and supporting students throughout their time at university.

The second programme, called the Sadler Access Bursary, supports additional 30 students who have graduated through the Manchester Access Programme (MAP), the University’s flagship widening‑participation initiative for high‑achieving students from Greater Manchester.

The Sadler Bursaries reflect the University’s wider commitment to student inclusion and success, a core priority of the Challenge Accepted fundraising and volunteering campaign. Challenge Accepted brings together the University’s global community in a shared philanthropic effort to remove barriers to education and help talented students from all backgrounds to access a world-leading education and thrive once they arrive in Manchester. By reducing financial pressures and providing financial stability, bursaries such as these play a pivotal role in enabling students to focus on their studies, engage fully in university life and plan confidently for the future.

Simon is a graduate of The University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology (UMIST), where he studied Management, and was the first in his family to attend university. He has previously described the Sadler Bursary as a way to help young people who have had “particularly complicated starts to their lives” to pursue opportunities in higher education and realise their potential.

Applications for the next cohort of Sadler Bursary Scholars are currently open, with a deadline in April 2026.

The University of Manchester’s University Challenge team have been crowned winners of the UK’s toughest quizzing tournament.

Having beaten out New College Oxford and LSE to reach the quarterfinals, from there defeating UCL and Sheffield, and sailing past Imperial with 250 points to 70 in the final semi-final round, they finally triumphed over Edinburgh in last night’s finale.

The victory is an historic one for the University, as with this fifth win (2006, 2009, 2012, 2013, 2025) it becomes the most successful University in the history of the competition, joint with Imperial College London.

The winning team this year was made up of Ray Power (Film Studies and English Literature), Kirsty Dickson (Medicine), Rob Faulkner (Physics with Astrophysics) and their captain, Kai Madgwick (PhD, AI and Astrophysics), along with reserve player, Argyro Olympitis (PHD in Immunology).

It can feel as though there’s something mystic about acquiring a seat on the University Challenge team, a tap on the shoulder in a quiet area of the quad one day maybe, but according to Ray, that that isn’t so.

“Growing up, my Grandma was always a huge fan of University Challenge, and when a friend of mine who’d been a contestant a couple of years before told me that they were recruiting again, I signed myself up!”

After passing a first-stage online quiz, and doing herself proud in a trial match held by Quiz Society, Ray’s name was on the team sheet.

“The great thing about how UoM do it is that the whole thing is led by students. The Uni supports it, but it’s all run by Quiz Society. There’s a real sense of community, we even have contestants from previous years coming back for mentoring and to help us practice.”

Rob, Kirsty, and Ray, all took the same sign-up route to the team, while their Captain, Kai Madgwick, was already a Quiz Soc stalwart, having competed in plenty of inter-university quiz tournaments.

Once in the team, the training process is tough, spending hours each Tuesday sequestered away in a quiet part of the library, testing each other and playing along with old episodes. It wasn’t all about gruelling revision, though.

“I feel really lucky to have been able to meet the rest of the team, I’ve made four really good friends. I don’t think we expected to have such a good time together!” said Ray. “It’s hard to pick out just one highlight, but filming the trophy presentation in London was amazing, and it was so lovely to be together with the team through the whole process.”

Ray insists that it isn’t all down to their hard work – there’s some chance involved too, and that losing starter questions, or feeling like you don’t have the momentum of the game, can really affect the outcome. The score of the semi-final against Imperial, she says, really didn’t reflect how strong that team were, and that Manchester were lucky to have played such a great team game that round, where everybody contributed to the win.

And while there might be an element of chance, it sounds like there’s a little bit of fate in there too, with a semi-final tie against UCL seeing them ace a music round, picking out tunes from Fontaines DC, Black Midi, Squid, and Wet Leg.

“It’s so weird, Kai’s a huge Squid fan - one of the first conversations I remember having with them was about going to a Squid gig… after that music round, Squid actually shouted us out on Instagram!”

Ray says they never expected to win when they began the contest, they just kept playing and ended up in the final.

“We never expected to win, we were just happy to be there. The whole thing was nerve-wracking! It was so intense and felt so much like a super weird school trip!”

Having been beaten by Edinburgh 195 to 80 in the quarterfinals of the competition, the tournament’s last leg was a chance for the Manchester team to right some wrongs.

“Yeah, they beat us really badly. It was scary but we were happy with how far we’d already come. We knew how wonderful and clever the team from Edinburgh were, and we just went into it wanting to do our best!”

Do their best they did, and in bringing home the trophy for Manchester, they are the fifth team to do so, placing UoM at the top of the all-time leaderboard, in the company of ICL.

Announced on Tuesday (24 March), the Russell Group’s 24 leading universities, including The University of Manchester, set out plans to train more than 181,000 students in subjects critical to health and care by 2030 – an increase of more than 15%. This includes doctors, dentists, nurses and midwives delivering frontline care, alongside engineers, social scientists and technology specialists whose expertise is increasingly essential to improving today’s healthcare services.

The University of Manchester already educates around 3,000 medical and dentistry students, and Russell Group universities in the North West collectively train over 17,000 people in the skills we need for a healthier future.  

The commitment will also support the growth of life sciences companies, helping to bring new treatments, technologies and high-skilled jobs to communities across the country.

While expanding training, universities will also work to remove barriers so that more students from disadvantaged backgrounds can access medical and health careers. This includes expanding initiatives, such as targeted gateway courses, summer schools and mentoring that make health and care careers more open to students from all backgrounds.

At The University of Manchester, the commitment builds on a long-standing focus on widening participation and supporting regional skills needs, particularly across Greater Manchester and the North West.

Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, who is chairing the Russell Group working group behind the commitment, said: “One thing that distinguishes Russell Group universities – like The University of Manchester – is our unique combination of groundbreaking discovery research and our role in training the health workforce of the future.

“Our commitment is to training 181,000 graduates in health and care-related subjects by 2030, a 15% increase; increasing access for students from all backgrounds to join these vital professions; and supporting the growth of life sciences and innovation to help create high-skilled jobs and attract investment into communities.

“And we’re going to do it in partnership with the NHS and the patients, families, workers, industries and communities we serve. It’s about ensuring that the work of our universities translates into meaningful, real-world impact.

“There is more to do, but this represents an important step forward.”

The University of Manchester recently formed a new partnership with Wigan & Leigh College and the Greater Manchester Colleges network to place PhD researchers into Further Education classrooms, helping to strengthen teaching in priority subjects such as engineering, digital skills and STEM. The programme helps colleges with specialist expertise, while giving postgraduate researchers valuable teaching experience and building stronger links between further and higher education.

Other recent initiatives include hands-on pharmacy workshops and Healthcare Careers Pathway Days, offering students opportunities to meet professionals, visit campus and gain practical advice on applications.

The University also runs dedicated widening participation programmes, such as Lancashire Access Medics and the Preston Widening Access Programme, designed to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds into medicine.

While delivering on these commitments, Russell Group universities will for the first time convene a nationwide series of community engagement events.

The University of Manchester will host an in-person roundtable event bringing together partners from across the region to explore the future of the healthcare workforce. It will focus on how The University of Manchester can work with the health ecosystem in Greater Manchester to expand inclusive pathways into health careers and secure a strong and sustainable pipeline of talent for the NHS.

Read the full Russell Group announcement on its website.

Led by the University’s Science & Engineering Education Research and Innovation Hub (SEERIH), the Great Science Share for Schools encourages pupils aged 5–14 to ask, investigate and share scientific questions that matter to them. By placing curiosity at the centre of learning, it supports the development of scientific literacy, creativity and confidence from an early age empowering children to see themselves as active participants in science.

Its reach and inclusivity are among its greatest strengths and Great Science Share for Schools continues to build global momentum. In 2025 alone, more than 845,000 young people from over 4300 schools in 52 countries took part, with around 50% of participants located in areas of high socio-economic deprivation. This reflects the initiative’s position as a worldwide leader in child-centred science engagement and its strong commitment to widening access and ensuring science is accessible to all, regardless of background.

The University continues to play a central role in this growth. In 2025, during the programme’s 10^thanniversary year, we welcomed over 35 schools from across Greater Manchester onto campus for hands‑on science activities that connected children directly with our colleagues, facilities and scientific community.

With the campaign having received patronage of the UK National Commission for UNESCO in 2024, 2025 and 2026, focus is now on the global growth of GSSfS. With its inclusive, non-competitive and collaborative approach, the format is easily translatable to 5–14-year-olds across the globe to ask a scientific question, investigating it and sharing it in various means of communication.

Great Science Share for Schools provides opportunities for university academics and research to feature in the campaign through the resources produced each year. The campaign has also worked closely with Manchester Museum staff and the University’s Creative Manchester.

The impact of Great Science Share for Schools over the past decade was recently recognised in a feature in the Manchester Evening News, which highlighted the programme’s Manchester roots, its global influence and its success in empowering hundreds of thousands of children to explore the world around them. By nurturing curiosity, confidence and a lifelong love of science, the initiative continues to demonstrate the power of meaningful engagement with young learners.

• Further information can be found here on the Great Science Share website.
• Please contact us if you are interested in collaborating on the campaign.
• See the full article in the Manchester Evening News

Working Well: Roots to Dental Jointly led by University of Manchester, University Dental Hospital of Manchester, part of Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, and Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA). The scheme has already shown how addressing oral health can make a real difference to people’s lives, improving residents’ confidence and readiness for work while supporting the training of the next generation of dentists.

One participant said: “Previously I struggled with pain when eating and sensitivity all the time. I could not drink without a straw, and this makes people look funny at you. Now I have had two root canals on my front teeth I can bite better and eat better, and it’s not sore. I feel more confident to smile as my teeth are a much better colour. I can’t wait to have the rest of them done... I think it will improve my employment prospects by looking better and having less pain.”

This success comes against a wider backdrop of unemployment linked to health and disability in Greater Manchester, with oral health emerging as a significant but often hidden barrier to accessing and sustaining good jobs. Working Well: Roots to Dental is a leading example of how to integrate oral health and employment support as well as giving opportunities to dental students to make a difference to local communities. It connects directly to Greater Manchester’s ambition to remove barriers to good jobs by providing everyday, neighbourhood‑based support that links health, skills and opportunity, so residents can thrive in work and life.

Following a successful pilot supporting over 200 residents, the scheme was recognised with an Employment Related Services Association (ERSA) Employability Award for Adding Social Value, won in partnership with employment support provider Ingeus. It now plans to widen access to even more Greater Manchester residents through the Working Well programme and other selected referral pathways, so that more people can benefit from integrated dental treatment and employment support.

Cllr Eamonn O’Brien, Greater Manchester lead for Technical Education and Skills, said:  

“Roots to Dental shows what’s possible when we join up health, skills and employment support in a way that works for everyone. Residents are getting the treatment and confidence they need to move closer to work, while dental students gain vital, real‑world experience that prepares them for their future careers.”

Sarah-Jade Akintomide, undergraduate dental student said:

“Through Roots to Dental, I am learning to deliver high-quality treatment to help people smile again. It's about more than just teeth; it's about restoring people's confidence and improving their quality of life.”

Professor Allan Pacey, Deputy Dean and Deputy Vice President of the Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health said:

“Social Responsibility is a core goal at The University of Manchester and so I am delighted that our students are making a real difference in communities where change is so desperately needed.”

• Working Well is a family of services that support people experiencing or at risk of long-term unemployment due to poor health or complex needs.
• To date, over 92,000 residents in Greater Manchester have been supported.
• Working Well: Roots to Dental has recognised unmet need in relation to oral health and employment. Many participants were living in dental pain and felt embarrassed about their teeth, impacting on their ability to move into work.
• Data from a cohort of 4,469 participants in a related Work and Health programme showed:

o   10% had pain or problems in their mouth

o   A further 10% felt embarrassed about speaking and smiling due to dental issues

o   40% of participants had no access to a regular dentist

• Residents or key workers supporting Working Well services can find out more on the Greater Manchester Combined Authority website: Roots to Dental - Greater Manchester Combined Authority

SATURN-2 (Skills and Training Underpinning a Renaissance in Nuclear) builds on the success of the original SATURN Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT), doubling its size and introducing expanded training pathways across the entire nuclear fuel cycle. The programme will recruit around 50 PhD/EngD students per year for the next four years, delivering just under half of the 500 high skill nuclear doctoral graduates the UK is estimated to need by 2030.

The programme brings together seven universities: The University of Manchester (lead), The University of Liverpool, Lancaster University, The University of Strathclyde, The University of Sheffield, The University of Leeds, and Bangor University. These universities represent more than 70% of the UK’s nuclear academic community and deliver expertise across the entire nuclear fuel cycle.

Backed by £8 million of industrial co‑investment and £4 million from university partners, SATURN-2 represents one of the most significant UK investments in advanced nuclear skills in over a decade.

The programme also maintains a strong regional base across the North West, North Wales and Scotland, home to the UK’s most concentrated cluster of nuclear industry, research facilities and workforce.

Professor Joel Turner, SATURN CDT Director from The University of Manchester said: “This Doctoral Focal Award reflects the success of the original SATURN Centre for Doctoral Training and its important role in supporting the government’s ambitions for Nuclear. Building on that foundation, SATURN-2 will expand the programme significantly, while continuing to deliver world-leading training for the next generation of specialists the UK needs in this sector. We are proud to lead this collaboration with outstanding partners across the UK.”

Meeting critical UK skills needs

The UK Government’s Strategic Defence Review and National Nuclear Strategic Plan for Skills highlight an urgent shortage of high skill nuclear scientists and engineers, with an estimated 120,000 workers needed by the 2030s, including a rapidly depleting cohort of subject matter experts.

SATURN-2 directly addresses this challenge by training specialists across:

• Nuclear fuel manufacture and performance
• Reactor science, engineering and operations
• Decommissioning and waste management
• Fusion‑fission interfaces
• Digital engineering, robotics and AI in nuclear contexts

Students will benefit from an enriched training programme including a three‑month residential bootcamp, specialist modules across the partner institutions, international experiences at leading laboratories, and secondments into industry, national labs and government agencies.

Professor Charlotte Deane, Executive Chair at UKRI’s Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council said: “The UK's nuclear sector is central to our national security, clean energy ambitions and economic future. Meeting those challenges demands a new generation of researchers and innovators with the technical expertise to make a real difference. 

“UKRI doctoral focal awards are a proven way to develop that talent. They bring together academic excellence, industry partnerships and cohort-based learning to give doctoral students the skills and experience to make an immediate impact in the nuclear workforce.  

“These new nuclear focal awards, developed in partnership with government, will continue building the research base that the UK's national security and clean energy future depends on.” 

A proven pipeline into the nuclear workforce

Over 15 years of predecessor CDTs, Nuclear First, Next Generation Nuclear, GREEN and SATURN, the consortium has trained more than 300 doctoral researchers, with exceptionally strong career outcomes.

High‑level destination data shows that:

• 75% of graduates now work directly in the nuclear industry
• 18% progressed into education or academia
• 5% are employed in nuclear‑relevant government roles

These figures demonstrate the CDT’s sustained role as the UK’s most effective route for producing nuclear subject matter experts.

Exceptional industrial engagement

SATURN-2 is supported by 22 industry partners spanning the civil, defence and advanced nuclear sectors, including Rolls Royce, BAE Systems, Sellafield Ltd, the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, AWE, EDF, UK NNL, Urenco, Framatome, AtkinsRéalis and Rapiscan.

Industrial partners have committed:

• 48 co‑funded studentships
• ~£4 million of in‑kind support (supervision, placements, facilities, equipment, training)

Industry demand for SATURN trained researchers continues to rise, demonstrating trust in the consortium’s ability to deliver highly employable graduates ready for the most complex national nuclear challenges.

Supporting additional national doctoral centres

In addition to leading SATURN‑2, The University of Manchester is also a supporting partner in several of the newly funded Centres for Doctoral Training announced alongside SATURN‑2, including:

• RAPTOR (Radiation Protection, Nuclear Safety and Environmental Sustainability), led by the University of Liverpool
• DRIVERS (Developing Researchers with an Interdisciplinary Vision for Engineering Reactor Systems), led by Imperial College London
• PANDA (Programme for Accelerating Nuclear Development and Applications), led by Bangor University

The work reflects the University’s wider role in strengthening the UK’s national nuclear skills pipeline.

MEC’s inaugural Researcher Launchpad programme reached an exciting finale on Tuesday 10th March, as early career researchers came together to present the commercial potential of their research to a panel of expert judges.

This marked the culmination of months of entrepreneurial exploration, customer discovery and skills development delivered through the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre’s newest flagship programme.

The final session featured a closed-door pitching round in which researchers unveiled early-stage innovations from across all faculties of the University. The judging panel provided targeted feedback on each idea - assessing commercial viability, clarity of value proposition, customer insight and potential for future development.

Following deliberations, all participants reconvened for the announcement of this year’s award recipients, alongside reflections from the judging panel and a networking session that brought the 2026 cohort together with mentors, programme facilitators and supporters from across the University’s innovation ecosystem.

A new programme built on a strong legacy

Researcher Launchpad represents the next evolution of the highly successful Researcher to Innovator (R2I) initiative, which since 2019 supported dozens of researchers to progress early-stage commercial ideas and secure innovation funding.

Building on this legacy, the enhanced Researcher Launchpad programme now offers an immersive and agile eight-week pre-accelerator designed for PhD and postdoctoral researchers aiming to develop commercial ventures. Throughout the programme, participants learn to articulate the commercial potential of their research, test and validate market assumptions through customer discovery, refine value propositions and routes to market, develop their pitching and communication skills, and build the confidence and entrepreneurial mindset needed to progress their ideas.

Celebrating achievement and enabling next steps

5 awards totalling £20,000 were granted to support the further development of researchers’ ideas. These awards will enable winners to progress activities such as prototype development, market research, technical validation, IP exploration or early engagement with users and stakeholders.

Award Winners

Innovation Enabling Award: £5,000

Foldes

Balint Macsuga (School of Natural Sciences)

"Researcher launchpad has really been a stepping stone for us. The programme equipped us to identify the main challenges of the physiotherapy sector and find the largest gap in market for foldES - our next generational knee-sleeve. We are grateful for the Researcher Launchpad team for their support and can only just recommend participation in the programme."

AI for Multilingualism

Dr Nourhan Heysham (School of Environment, Education and Development

"The Launchpad gave me the structure and confidence to move my idea forward. It provided the space to step back from day-to-day research and think through the opportunity from every angle."

Innovation Enabling Award: £4,000

Curvindiks

Phumza Sokhetye (School of Natural Sciences)

“The programme was a transformative experience that helped me refine my research into a venture-ready project and better understand how it can create real-world and social impact. It provided the skills and confidence needed to communicate the value of my work and take the first steps toward commercialisation.”

Innovation Enabling Award: £3,000

INVIAM: Microbial Recycling of Critical Metals

Patrick King (School of Natural Sciences)

“The MEC Researcher Launchpad is a perfect starting point for researchers who are curious about commercialisation, as well as those who are committed to it and taking their first steps towards that goal.”

Ovasight

Faisal Bala (School of Engineering)

“Two things stand out in this program: the well-paced training that aligns PhD with venture building, and the cash prize awarded upon completion to help you get started.”

Prize winners will also receive expert support and signposting to advanced accelerator programmes and all the participants on the programme will be connected to the wider ecosystem for continued mentoring, guidance and support as they take their research ideas forward.

Looking ahead:

As the Researcher Launchpad programme concludes its inaugural cycle, preparations are already underway for the next cohort. Researchers from all disciplines, whether new to innovation or already exploring commercial routes are encouraged to register their interest.

The programme forms part of MEC’s broader Researcher Pathway, a suite of workshops, training and development opportunities designed to strengthen entrepreneurial skills and support researchers to translate their expertise into real-world impact.

Applications to the flagship Venture Further Awards 2026 (VFA) are now open, featuring a brand new “Research-Led Disruption” track. Aligned with the MEC Researcher Pathway, this track supports the critical transition from breakthrough research to commercialisation, helping founders translate innovation into real-world impact.

Full details and application link can be found here.

Find out more

To learn about upcoming programmes, workshops and opportunities for researchers, visit: https://www.entrepreneurship.manchester.ac.uk/researcher-pathway/

This March, the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre (MEC) at The University of Manchester is marking International Women’s Month through a focused campaign celebrating women leaders, founders and practitioners within the MEC entrepreneurial community, alongside two dedicated events designed to inspire and support women across the University. 

Supporting Women in Entrepreneurship 

While the UK is one of Europe’s leading startup ecosystems, gender imbalance persists. Around 20% of UK startups include women founders, and all-female teams receive less than 2% of venture capital investment. Women also remain underrepresented in senior leadership roles and continue to face barriers to funding, networks and visibility. 

MEC’s International Women’s Month activity responds to these challenges by combining reflection, practical skills development and direct engagement with experienced women entrepreneurs.

Our Activities

5th March | Female Founders Vision Boarding | #MECIWD26 

4:00–6:00pm | Alliance Manchester Business School 

To mark International Women’s Day, this hands-on workshop invites participants to pause, reflect and confidently envision their next steps. Through open discussion and a creative vision-boarding activity, attendees will explore entrepreneurial aspirations, identify potential challenges and translate ambition into action. 

The session creates space to discuss confidence, access and visibility while connecting participants to MEC’s wider support ecosystem. Pizza will be provided.

Confirm your place by registering here

24th March | Women in Leadership and Entrepreneurship 

4:00–6:30pm 

This panel event brings together women founders, programme leaders, students and professionals to explore leadership journeys, venture growth and inclusive professional environments. 

Through shared experiences and interactive discussion, participants will gain practical insight into navigating challenges, building networks and strengthening their impact across business and academia.

Click here to confirm your place

2nd – 30th March | Social Media Campaign: Read. Lead. Inspire. #MECIWD26 

Alongside our two flagship events, MEC will run an interactive Instagram campaign throughout International Women’s Month. From 2–30 March, Read. Learn. Inspire. invites students, staff, and alumni to celebrate women in entrepreneurship. 

• Read: Leaders and academics share their favourite books written by women, with reflections on leadership and entrepreneurship.
• Learn: Take a fun quiz to discover the women inventors and entrepreneurs behind products we use every day.
• Inspire: Celebrate the vital role of women in the economy, society, and science. Follow @uom_mec, get involved throughout the month, and share the campaign. #MECIWD26 

Through polls, book-inspired features, and interactive content, join the conversation, discover new role models, and celebrate bold, women-led ventures. By amplifying these stories, we inspire future founders to step forward and see entrepreneurship as a space where they belong.

About the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre 

The Masood Entrepreneurship Centre (MEC) at The University of Manchester's, supports students, graduates and researchers to develop entrepreneurial skills, launch ventures and engage with innovation through structured programmes, competitions and ecosystem partnerships. 

Through initiatives including Manchester Venture Builder, Venture Further Awards and the Female Founders Network, MEC is committed to fostering inclusive entrepreneurship and ensuring talented individuals have the confidence, capability and networks to transform ambitious ideas into impactful ventures.

If you would like to learn more and get involved with any of the above activities, please contact entrepreneurship@manchester.ac.uk

The research, conducted by High Fliers, placed Manchester first followed by Birmingham, Nottingham, Warwick and University College London. Manchester formerly placed second in the rankings in the report’s 2025 edition. 

Manchester has reclaimed the top spot, reaffirming its position as the most highly targeted university by the UK’s leading graduate employers in an increasingly competitive market. 

The Graduate Market is an annual review of the graduate job market, with this year’s report based on research completed in December 2025 with 100 of the UK’s leading graduate employers.  

Researchers identified the top five institutions which attract the most top graduate employers to university careers fairs, on-campus employers’ presentations, careers service promotions and other locally-run publicity throughout 2025-2026.  

On average, the number of universities targeted by employers averaged around 23 in the latest academic year. This ranking demonstrates how Manchester graduates remain a priority target for employers in the face of a challenging graduate job market. 

The top 100 employers reduced graduate hiring again in 2025 (–5.1%) and are forecasting a further slight dip in 2026 (–0.5%), bringing vacancies to their lowest level since 2012.

The University of Manchester places consistently in the top 100 of world universities across a number of rankings, most recently placing ninth in the QS World University Rankings: Europe 2026. In the QS Rankings for Employability, The University of Manchester ranks fourth for Employment Outcomes and third place for Employer Reputation in the Russell Group.

Manchester was also recognised among the top 100 globally across 10 subject areas in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026 by Subject. 

Other rankings for The University of Manchester are available here. 

Developed through the Greater Manchester Civic University Agreement, the initiative enables postgraduate researchers to teach up to 20 hours per week in FE settings, providing specialist expertise in priority subjects such as engineering, STEM and digital skills. In turn, the programme offers researchers valuable, paid teaching experience while helping colleges tackle critical local and regional skills gaps.

University of Manchester President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Duncan Ivison highlighted the civic significance of the programme: “We’re putting PhD researchers into Greater Manchester colleges to teach alongside experienced staff – starting with engineering, where skills shortages are most acute. This will help colleges with specialist expertise, give our researchers valuable paid teaching experience, and create clearer pathways between further and higher education. This is the kind of collaboration that will contribute to the region’s economic growth and is exactly what a civic university should be doing.”

Professor Callum Kidd, who led the pilot programme, said: “This initiative strengthens the link between Higher Education and Further Education, creating pathways for learners and tackling regional skills gaps. It also offers PhD researchers real-world teaching experience that enhances their career prospects.”

The pilot phase of the programme was launched in 2025 at Wigan & Leigh College, where three postgraduate researchers from the School of Engineering were recruited through the Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE) Doctoral Academy. The project has been chaired by Professor Callum Kidd (FSE) and jointly developed by a cross-institutional team.‑institutional team

Anna Dawe, Principal of Wigan & Leigh College, added: “We are delighted to build together this partnership with The University of Manchester. Bringing PhD researchers into our colleges enriches students' learning experience and helps address the pressing need for skilled educators in technical subjects. This collaboration is a fantastic example of how Greater Manchester’s education ecosystem can work together to deliver real impact.”

The programme aligns with national and regional priorities to strengthen the civic role of universities while boosting access to specialist expertise across FE colleges.

Following the success of the first phase, the project team is now developing plans to expand the programme across the full Faculty of Science and Engineering, with long term ambitions to extend it university wide. Discussions with additional Further Education colleges in Greater Manchester are underway, with participating institutions set to be confirmed later this year. A full review of the pilot phase will be completed in February 2026.‑term ambitions to extend it university‑wide. Discussions with additional Further Education colleges in Greater Manchester are underway, with participating institutions set to be confirmed later this year. A full review of the pilot phase will be completed in February 2026.

For further information please directly contact mags.bradbury@manchester.ac.uk

Open to students across all faculties , the Semester 2 units are designed to introduce entrepreneurial thinking while allowing students to apply their ideas to real-world challenges. The units combine academic learning with practical activities, supporting students to develop creativity, problem-solving and innovation alongside their main degree studies.

This semester’s offering includes units such as Entrepreneurial Skills (MCEL10002), this unit  students understand the processes entrepreneurs go through when researching and developing a business opportunity, and Tools & Techniques for Enterprise (MCEL30002), where students as entrepreneurs (or intrapraneurs) assess potential business opportunities using a range of business tools and models. Interdisciplinary Sustainable Development (MCEL30022) focuses on how enterprise can be used to address environmental and social challenges through collaboration across disciplines.

The Masood Entrepreneurship Centre’s taught units are designed to be accessible to students with no prior business experience, encouraging participation from a wide range of subject areas.

Alongside specialist units, students can also choose Exploring Enterprise (MCEL10022)  where students develop problem-solving skills, creativity, and commercial awareness acting as consultants and, Entrepreneur: Innovator and Risk-Taker (UCIL24002), which focusses on how entrepreneurs generate the ideas that allow them to create and grow their firm,

Subject-specific options are also available, including units tailored for students in healthcare and computer science. For many students, the units provide a first opportunity to explore entrepreneurship in a supportive academic environment.

The taught units typically carry 10 credits and run over one semester. Assessment is based on coursework, presentations and group projects, reflecting real-world professional and entrepreneurial practices.

Students interested in enrolling in a Semester 2 MEC unit are encouraged to check availability through My Manchester and seek approval from their academic school where required. With strong student interest each year, the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre continues to support students from all backgrounds in developing skills that are valuable across a wide range of careers — whether in entrepreneurship, employment or further study.

To find out more about Masood Entrepreneurship Centre (MEC), head to our website here.

The University ranked in the top 50 globally for four subjects, including Arts & Humanities (41), Business & Economics (41) and Social Sciences (32). The University received its highest ranking for Engineering, taking 5^th place in the UK ranking and 48^th globally.

The University saw its ranking improve in 3 subjects compared to the previous rankings, including Social Sciences (by 5 to 32), Arts & Humanities (by 2 to 41) and Physical Sciences (by 4 to 51).

The THE subject rankings cover 148 individual disciplines under broad subject areas. The methodology judges universities based on five core pillars of evaluation: teaching, research environment, research quality, international outlook and industry.

Professor Colette Fagan, Vice-President for Research at The University of Manchester, said of the latest rankings: “This global subject ranking is testament to the high level of teaching and research excellence this University prides itself on. We use global rankings to inform our evaluation of our current offering and strategic plans to ensure we are providing students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in their chosen fields, both at the University and beyond.”

Professor Jenn Hallam, Vice-President for Teaching, Learning and Students at The University of Manchester added: “Following the recent launch of our 2035 strategy, we are collectively working to meet our big ambitions of making learning flexible, personalised and digitally-enabled, and allowing students to co-create their study on their own terms. These rankings are useful in demonstrating where we are, and where we would like to be, to ensure we keep building on the high-quality teaching we deliver to our talented students.”

Right now The University of Manchester ranks 8^th in the UK and 56^th in the world in the THE World University Rankings for 2026. The prestigious rankings evaluate more than 2,000 institutions from 115 countries and territories. 

In the QS World University Rankings 2026, The University of Manchester ranks 7^th in the UK and 35^th in the world, while the University also ranks first in the UK and second in the world in the THE Impact Rankings.

• 65,000 staff and students will receive full Microsoft 365 Copilot access and training as The University of Manchester becomes the world’s first university to offer universal provision across its entire community.     
• The University-wide rollout will equip students with future-ready skills, strengthen teaching and research, and help address the emerging digital divide through equitable access to the advanced AI tools within Microsoft 365 Copilot.
• Today’s announcement builds on Manchester’s 76-year AI legacy, from Alan Turing to today’s ground-breaking research, positioning the University as a leader in ethical, responsible AI adoption.   

The University of Manchester has announced a strategic collaboration with Microsoft, becoming the first university in the world to give Microsoft 365 Copilot access and training to every student and colleague. 

The landmark agreement will see 65,000 students, academics and colleagues benefit from the full Microsoft 365 Copilot suite, alongside training to support effective and responsible use.  

This initiative forms part of the University’s wider digital and AI transformation programme, which focuses not only on tools, but on building long-term AI literacy, and ensuring the responsible integration of emerging technologies.

It will support learning, research and professional work, and graduate employability. It addresses the emerging digital divide by ensuring that all students – regardless of personal means – can benefit from advanced assistive and productivity tools. 

The announcement comes 76 years after Alan Turing published his seminal ‘Turing Test’ paper while working at the University, one of the first on artificial intelligence, and reflects Manchester’s continuing leadership in AI, with more than 1,600 researchers working across disciplines to understand and shape the technology. 

The Microsoft 365 Copilot rollout, to be completed by summer 2026, will equip Manchester students with future-ready skills and enable researchers to accelerate interdisciplinary discovery and analysis at scale.   

• Through access and training, Manchester graduates will be well prepared for the modern workplace, where employers increasingly expect graduates to be confident users of AI technologies. Students will also be able to use Microsoft 365 Copilot to support their studies in line with the University’s policies on the responsible use of AI.
• Universal access will help address the emerging digital divide by ensuring that all students can benefit from advanced assistive and productivity tools, regardless of personal means.
• Researchers across the University will be able to use Microsoft 365 Copilot to reduce time spent on routine tasks and explore ideas beyond their immediate disciplines. It enhances evidence gathering by navigating wider and more diverse literature, strengthens understanding through fast and accurate synthesis, and accelerates data analysis to unlock insights sooner. Manchester researchers are already using AI to advance breast cancer treatment and improve menopause care, transform crop productivity, and reduce waste in the fashion industry.
• For academic and professional services colleagues, Microsoft 365 Copilot will support more efficient ways of working and free up time for higher-value, strategic activity. A pilot conducted between 2024 and 2025 demonstrated strong engagement, with 90 per cent of licensed users adopting the tool within 30 days and around half using it several times a week.   

Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, said: “AI is now part of everyday life. Our responsibility is not only to make these tools available to all our students and staff on an equitable basis, but to use the depth of expertise across our university to shape how AI is developed and applied for public good.   

“By embracing the AI transformation early, we are working with students, colleagues and partners to maximise the benefits and manage risks responsibly. The great universities of the 21st century will be digitally enabled – this partnership represents a significant step on that journey for Manchester.”

Darren Hardman, CEO, Microsoft UK & Ireland, said, “As someone who grew up in Manchester, I’m proud to see the University extending access to Microsoft 365 Copilot across its entire community, helping 65,000 students and staff build the skills they’ll need to thrive in an AI‑enabled economy. This is a powerful example of how we can pair Manchester’s deep AI heritage with responsible, ethical adoption that helps to close the digital divide and equip people to learn, research and work more effectively.”  

The strategic collaboration with Microsoft is one of the first major developments following the launch of the University’s new strategy, From Manchester for the world, demonstrating its ambition for research impact, world-class teaching and learning, and responsible leadership in digital transformation and innovation in action.  

The rollout will be delivered in partnership with the Students’ Union, trade unions and staff networks. The University is working closely with Microsoft to ensure transparency around environmental and wider impacts, and to promote best practice in responsible and sustainable AI adoption.  

Microsoft’s long-standing commitments to sustainability were an important consideration for the University in partnering with them. These include being committed to becoming carbon negative, water positive and zero waste by 2030. 

Professor Jenn Hallam, Vice-President for Teaching, Learning and Students, said: “Every student deserves access to the best AI tools to enable them to thrive in their studies – no matter their circumstances or background. AI is an enabler for teaching and learning, not a replacement. It’s not just supportive in the classroom, but in wider productivity and future life skills and we’re giving students the tools and training to use it in the right way, ethically and appropriately. We’re not just preparing graduates who can go out and get good jobs, we’re preparing the next generation of citizens. That’s the mission of Manchester – you'll get a great degree, but we’ll also prepare you for a fast-changing world.” 

Kanishka Narayan, Minister for AI and Online Safety, said: "When we bring a technology like AI together with the peerless expertise of UK universities, the potential is enormous. Whether supporting students in their studies, opening new avenues of research, or slashing the time spent on routine tasks, the benefits are transformative.   

"This partnership between The University of Manchester and Microsoft will help our brightest minds do what they do best – innovate. Meanwhile, initiatives like the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology's Spärck Scholarships will attract high-potential AI talent to top universities like Manchester." 

The visit was made possible by alumnus and Blackpool FC owner, Simon Sadler, whose £1.5 million philanthropic gift has enabled the University to launch a transformative bursary programme for care-experienced students.

The Sadler Bursary provides an annual grant of £10,000 to up to 36 undergraduate students who have left care. The initiative addresses the significant barriers faced by care leavers in accessing and thriving in higher education. Nationally, only 14% of care leavers progress to university, compared to 47% of students from state-funded schools.

In recognition of these barriers, The University of Manchester offers extensive support for care leavers. Each student has a named contact who helps them settle into university life and provides advice around subjects such as housing and finance. The University also makes 52-week accommodation in halls available, and can act as a guarantor to private landlords.

Financial support, of which the Sadler Bursary is an important part, also covers living costs, access to sports and recreation, and an offer of becoming a paid student ambassador.

The Scholars were invited to Blackpool FC to enjoy full hospitality in the club’s boardroom, meet players and staff, and walk through the players’ tunnel onto the pitch prior to kick-off.

Simon Sadler, Owner of Blackpool FC, commented: “It was deeply moving to welcome the Scholars and to see them enjoying all that our wonderful club has to offer. These young people have overcome more challenges than many and the bursary is about giving them the support and encouragement they may need to pursue their ambitions with confidence.”

Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, commented: “Thanks to Simon's generosity, the Sadler Bursary is a shining example of how philanthropy can help change lives by making education more accessible and inclusive. This visit to Blackpool FC was a celebration of that spirit and that mission. These students deserve every opportunity to thrive, and we’re proud to be supporting them throughout their journey.”

Daniel, one of the Sadler Scholars, added: “Growing up, my life felt contained in a dark tunnel, boundless and solitary. Now, as I step out of the Bloomfield Road tunnel, the future shines so bright. On this journey I am no longer alone.”

The Sadler Bursary forms part of the University’s broader commitment to supporting care-experienced and estranged students. In addition to financial support, students benefit from tailored guidance, accommodation grants, and opportunities to work as Student Ambassadors.

Aurore Hochard, Director at MEC, brought Startup Weekend to the University of Manchester in 2024, shortly after joining the team. Following the huge success of the very first Startup Weekend initiative, it has since become a flagship event at the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre, championing entrepreneurship among students across the university. 

This year’s event, organised by Joana Carneiro (Enterprise Innovation Administrator at MEC) and Izzy Paton (Operations Administrator at MEC), brought together industry experts, speakers, and mentors to spark and celebrate entrepreneurship, showcasing both emerging and established talent. 

Across the weekend, participants pitched ideas, formed teams, and developed startup concepts with guidance from experienced mentors and industry leaders, wrapping up the weekend with a live pitch event in front of a panel of expert judges.

The event opened with inspiring talks from Aurore Hochard and Farah Frikha, Founder of Vesta Capsules and MEC alumna, followed by rapid-fire 30-second pitches and team formations. 

Throughout the weekend, participants learned how to identify customer needs, validate business concepts, and apply entrepreneurial thinking to solve real-world problems. 

Saturday focused on turning ideas into viable products and business models, with hands-on workshops including “Building the Startup Team” led by Dr Rob Martin, Lecturer in Enterprise and Entrepreneurship at MEC. 

Tom Parson, Founder of Big Echo, led “Blank Page to Big Idea: Unlock Startup Ideas with AI”, a session on using AI to spark creativity and accelerate the ideation process, helping students transform concepts into viable business ideas. 

Jorge Servert, Founder of Sensium, led “Developing the Right Product or Service”, a practical session guiding students to define and build their product or service based on real market needs, while also creating their first business plan using MEC’s startup template. 

On Sunday, teams perfected their business ideas through sessions like “Marketing & Acquiring Customers” with Eleni Chiarapini, Lecturer in Entrepreneurship at MEC, and “Personal Branding for Startups” with Coralie Watson, Founder of Theme Socials. 

Lastly, students worked on their pitches in “Pitch Perfect” with Julia Spencer, Acceleration Manager at NatWest Corporate Banking. Julia shared industry experience and insight on what investors are really looking for in a pitch and how to make an idea stand out. 

The weekend wrapped up with final presentations to a judging panel featuring Professor Lee Pugalis (Deputy Director of MEC), Travis Ralph-Donaldson (Innovation Discovery Manager at the University’s Innovation Factory), Stephen Sankson (Regional Director at NatWest Corporate Banking), and Jenny Oliver (CEO and Founder of Biora Nature Tech). 

The event concluded with an awards ceremony recognising the top-performing teams and their innovative ideas:

First place went to Veila, a clothing brand redefining modest fashion, led by Sabrinel Takheroubt (AMBS, Faculty of Humanities) alongside Nishita Chatlani, Yutong Song, Danna Castañeda, and Eleanor Alphonso (all AMBS and Faculty of Humanities students). The team received £3,000 to continue their journey to market, focusing on direct-to-consumer growth and online marketing. 

Second place was awarded to DecoRent, a decoration rental service for short-term stays in Manchester. The team, Stella Zhuoyue Ji Chen (AMBS), Mollie Levitt (School of Arts, Languages and Cultures, Faculty of Humanities), Benya Irlam (AMBS), Yaowen (Stephen) Hu (AMBS), and Chaerin (Devon) Son received £2,000 to help expand their mission of bringing cosy, functional spaces to students across the city. 

Highly Commended went to isitUp, a speculative market app for investing in people’s relationships, led by Isaac Batho (School of Engineering).

In total, 20 new business ideas were formed over the weekend, showcasing the entrepreneurial energy of Manchester’s student community and representing students from across all three faculties, Humanities; Science and Engineering; and Biology, Medicine and Health. 

Throughout the weekend, participants were supported by a dedicated group of mentors offering one-to-one advice and feedback, including Oladabola Babalola (Babz), Fernando Torres, Harry Panter, Sergio Gutierrez, Luke Marden, Jonghun Lee, Rick Watson, Ramin Esmaeilzadeh, Huw James, and Leigh Wharton. 

About the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre:  

The Masood Entrepreneurship Centre (MEC) is the University of Manchester’s focal point for enterprise and entrepreneurship teaching, learning, and startup support. MEC helps students, researchers, and alumni turn ideas into real-world impact through workshops, mentorship, and venture programmes.  

Learn more at: https://www.entrepreneurship.manchester.ac.uk/  

And now the programme called Thumos,  involving small group workshops and a follow-up 1:1 phone or video call with the workshop facilitator afterwards, who is a psychological therapist, is being  trialed. 

The programme aims to equip medical students  with psychological strategies which some people find helpful. 

As the study is a trial, 50% of participants will be allocated to receive the intervention, 50% will not receive the intervention, but all participants can continue to access all other support services as usual. 

All participants will be asked to complete questionnaires and will be reimbursed for their time in completing follow up questionnaires (those which come after the first set/the baseline measurement). 

The 115 students, from medical schools across the UK, completed the original Reboot  coaching programme as part of a study to assess whether it would improve their psychological resilience, depression, burnout and confidence in their ability to cope with stressful work-related events. 

Before, during and after the coaching, the students were assessed in each of these areas. The study, published in the Scottish Medical Journal, found that taking part in Reboot was linked with significant improvements in all areas, with fewer students experiencing depression symptoms after they had completed the coaching. 

It was originally designed by Clinical Psychologist Dr Judith Johnson, formerly from the University of Leeds but now from The University of Manchester. 

Dr Johnson adapted the programme to fit the needs of medical students. Globally, one in two report high burnout, while one in three experience elevated depression. 

She said: “Until now, most evaluations of supportive interventions for medical students have focused on generic interventions such as mindfulness, stress management training and yoga. These lack relevance for medical students and professionals and there is no clear evidence for such interventions improving depression or burnout among this group. 

“Poor mental health in medical students is a significant problem globally and there is evidence that a significant proportion of medical students intend to leave the profession as soon as they qualify.

“There is also a workforce crisis, with projections indicating a global shortage of around 10 million healthcare professionals by 2030. Anything which can help retain healthcare professionals in their professions is sorely needed. 

“We found reboot supported medical students with work-related stressors, normalising the anxiety which is inherent to training, providing peer-support and also helping medical students develop skills and solutions for the challenges they face and will continue to face as qualified doctors. 

• If you are a medical student in a year involving clinical placements, such as Y4 or Y5 you are eligible to take part in a new study evaluating a supportive programme designed to help students cope with the challenges placements can present. To express interest visit here
• For more information, email ThumosTrial@manchester.ac.uk or the Principal Investigator Dr Judith Johnson,Judith.johnson@manchester.ac.uk

11 student and graduate founders from across The University of Manchester gave compelling 4-minute pitches to an audience of investors, local ecosystem partners, stakeholders, and peers – demonstrating innovative solutions to real problems across diverse sectors. 

They each developed their products and services on the Manchester Venture Builder – MEC's 12-week programme of structured support to help entrepreneurs test and validate their idea, build an MVP and gain real traction on their journey to market-readiness. 

Mohamed Abbas (Venture Builder Manager, MEC) emphasised the importance of collaboration between organisations and individuals in supporting emerging young founders:

After the pitches, startups and guests gathered for the showcase and networking – an opportunity to ask questions, share ideas, and build connections. 

The ventures showcased were: 

• SpinOr – Compact superconducting quantum computers.
• PeerMatch – Building the platform where humanity's next breakthrough begins.
• AquaMinds – AI-powered early warning system for fouling in water treatment plants.
• Vesta Capsules – Offering safe sleep anytime, anywhere through stackable, weatherproof, and modular pods inspired by Japanese capsule hotels.
• ARDHANN – AI-powered next-gen composite materials for Energy, Space and Defence.
• Gynomics – Harnessing computational biology and machine learning to drive predictive and preventative care in women's reproductive health.
• Ecotrace – Plug-and-play circularity SaaS to extend the lifecycle of consumer goods, improve customer experiences, and help manufacturers meet tightening regulations.   
• Synkit – Wellness app helping employers support female staff through cycle-synced lifestyle.
• Waddle – Spontaneous small-group meetups for students seeking real-world connection.
• UniSights – Platform for Latin American schools to connect students with UK universities.
• TerraIQ – AI-powered farm optimisation platform for smallholder farms to unlock sustainability-linked revenue. 

We would like to congratulate all the startups who participated in the Demo Day for reaching this key milestone and we are excited to follow their growth and continued success. 

MEC is the University’s focal point for enterprise and entrepreneurship, offering opportunities for all current students, recent graduates and staff. Our vision is to create an ecosystem that nurtures innovators and fosters startups, driving global impact. 

You can find out more on our website here. If you are interested in supporting our entrepreneurs with your expertise or investment, please get in touch with our team.

The Masood Entrepreneurship Centre (MEC) is delighted to announce the return of the Female Founders Network this semester, with a special edition celebrating Women in Social Entrepreneurship, in collaboration with the Women in Business Society. Taking place on Thursday 16th October 2025, the event will recognise women driving positive change through purpose-led enterprise.

The evening will begin by honouring Eve Kekeh, founder of Bundlee – the UK’s first baby clothing rental subscription service – and Innovate UK Women in Innovation Award winner. A highlight of this segment will be the unveiling of a prestigious Purple Plaque, celebrating Eve’s outstanding contributions to innovation and sustainability.

The programme continues with an interactive panel and networking session, exploring the journeys of women building ventures with social impact at their core. The panel features inspiring leaders, including Anita Frost, multi award-winning author and founder of Green Bean Studio, a Manchester-based children’s brand championing education, sustainability, and creativity. Attendees will enjoy networking activities, discussions, and the opportunity to connect with like-minded entrepreneurs.

To attend please register here.

You can find out more about the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre (MEC) here.

The consortium, comprising Equitix, GRAHAM and Derwent FM, worked closely with the University, the Council, the local community and key stakeholders to secure Reserved Matters Planning Approval for the redevelopment.

Development can progress towards a start based on the finalised design, layout and landscaping plans. Covering Owens Park, Oak House and Woolton Hall, the development will deliver up to 3,300 modern, high-quality student homes, alongside amenity spaces, ancillary residential dwellings and extensive green infrastructure.

A key feature of the scheme is the creation of five distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own identity inspired by Manchester’s rich cultural, sporting and musical heritage. Sustainability is central to the design, with the project targeting Passivhaus certification and a BREEAM Excellent rating. Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), including offsite manufacturing, will be used to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and accelerate delivery.

Viridis Living also submitted its first application to the Building Safety Regulator in June 2025, three months ahead of planning approval. This proactive step supports the consortium’s commitment to fire safety, detailed design and the accelerated delivery of much-needed student housing in the city.

GRAHAM, on behalf of the consortium, has led the planning process in collaboration with the University of Manchester, architects Sheppard Robson, and planning consultants Deloitte.

Commenting on the planning approval, Neil McFarlane, GRAHAM Project Director, said: “We’re delighted to reach this important milestone on a project of such scale and significance. The approved plans reflect our commitment to delivering a quality development that meets the evolving needs of students and the University.

“The engagement with the local community and our response to challenging environmental targets have resulted in a well-received planning application. Inclusion, accessibility and student wellbeing are embedded throughout the scheme, making this one of the most forward-thinking student accommodation developments in the UK.”

Ben Leech, Managing Director, Investments, Equitix, said: “We’re pleased to see that the next stage of planning approvals for the University of Manchester’s new student accommodation has moved forward at pace. This important project will deliver much needed, high-quality, sustainable housing that keeps student wellbeing at its heart and reflects our commitment to long-term social infrastructure investment.”

Natalia Maximova, partner at Sheppard Robson, said: “Our design draws on the site’s layered history and character—from the rich parkland setting to the careful preservation and relocation of Mitzi Cunliffe’s ‘Cosmos 1’ relief sculpture. The detailed proposals establish five distinct neighbourhoods, fostering a sense of belonging through varied colours, textures, and finishes, with sustainability and wellbeing as unifying threads.

“The new social hub and additional study areas provide a variety of spaces that encourage togetherness and help reduce stress and isolation. We have increased biodiversity through new green spaces and a car-free environment, helping to rebuild the student community at Fallowfield as part of one of the world’s largest Passivhaus developments.”

Eamonn Tierney, Managing Director, Derwent Facilities Management, said: “This is a significant milestone in delivering a transformative scheme for Fallowfield and The University of Manchester’s students. We are proud to play a key role in this landmark contract, using our expertise to create a vibrant, sustainable community where students can truly thrive. We look forward to working closely with the University of Manchester and our partners to provide a world-class living experience that meets the evolving needs of students and the wider community.”

Enabling works are progressing ahead of the main construction programme, which will begin in early 2026. A phased handover will allow students to move into their new homes from 2026 through to 2030.

For more information on the Fallowfield Campus redevelopment, please visit here.

Organised in partnership with Rethink Rebuild Society and supported by the Chemists’ Community Fund (Royal Society of Chemistry), 48 children aged nine to 14 visited the University’s state-of-the-art Makerspace facility over three days to take part in a variety of fun and practical experiments, including making batteries out of lemons, testing acidity with natural indicators, and simple filtration experiments.

The initiative is the brainchild of Dr Abdullatif Alfutimie, Senior Lecturer in the School of Chemical Engineering at the University. Dr Alfutimie first came to Manchester from Aleppo in 2009 to pursue postgraduate study before going on to complete his PhD in 2012. But while pursuing his research career, his home city of Aleppo – once one of Syria’s most vibrant cultural centres – was being devastated by civil war.

Staying closely connected to family and friends affected by displacement and the collapse of education, he began to consider how he might use his own expertise to help displaced students regain educational confidence.

Dr Abdullatif Alfutimie, who led the programme, said: “This event wasn't just about science — it was about recognising curiosity, celebrating identity, and creating a sense of belonging for children who often face immense challenges.

"If we need to rebuild our country or even to contribute to improve this country, we need to educate this generation.

“The enthusiasm from the pupils was truly heartwarming - one parent told us that their child couldn't wait to repeat an experiment at home for their siblings.”

The initiative concluded with a Community Celebration Day at Rethink Rebuild Society’s centre in Manchester, welcoming more than 150 children and family members. Each child received a certificate and a take-home chemistry kit to continue their learning at home. A representative from the Royal Society of Chemistry was also in attendance to present the certificates and celebrate the children’s achievements.

Magda van Leeuwen, Volunteer and Engagement Manager for the Royal Society of Chemistry, said: “Chemistry Education for Refugee Students is an important initiative that gives young people who have already experienced a lot in their lives hope and opportunities. Programmes like the one Abdullatif has developed show that chemistry really is for all and can be a catalyst for instilling a lifelong passion in our subject.

“Through the Outreach Fund and with the backing of the Chemists’ Community Fund, the RSC is committed to supporting projects that give more people the opportunity to get hands-on scientific experiences. We are proud to have played a small part and want to applaud Abdullatif and his colleagues for their hard work in putting together such a practical and engaging experience for the participants.”

The University of Manchester is recognised as a University of Sanctuary, working to make the University a welcoming and safe place for refugees and asylum seekers. The University’s commitment to supporting sanctuary seekers is embedded across its three core goals: research, teaching, and social responsibility. The city of Manchester is also a City of Sanctuary, part of the City of Sanctuary UK initiative. The University works closely with the organisation to help its aim of making Manchester a place that is open and fair. 

Read more about Abdullatif’s initiative on the RSC website.

Dianne said of the CATE recognition: "I feel truly privileged to have led the development and continued delivery of our PGCert programme. At the heart of our success is a team philosophy grounded in open dialogue, mutual respect, and trust—where every individual voice is valued. It's a genuine pleasure to work in an environment where collaboration and support are embraced by all, and I couldn't be prouder of what our team has achieved together."  

Bip added: “The PGCert team is truly unique in the way it functions, supporting colleagues to achieve their very best. I am delighted the team has been recognised for our excellence in collaborative working which showcases the very best of what teaching looks like when we truly work together for the flourishing of colleagues and learners.”  

The PGCert Medical and Health Education is offered through the University’s Transnational Education operation to expand its reach, value and impact, helping healthcare systems around the world and improving health outcomes for patients globally. 

Professor April McMahon, who was Vice-President for Teaching, Learning and Students at the time of the nominations, said: “Many congratulations to Ang, Jenni, Dianne, Bip and everyone who has supported them. The NTFs and CATE awards are highly competitive and prestigious, and it is wonderful to see that again our Manchester people have done so well. Our students, and those considering coming to join us in September, should also be encouraged that teaching excellence is such a focus for us at Manchester.”

The 2025 awards ceremony will take place on 25 September in Bristol, hosted by incoming Advance HE Chief Executive Alistair Jarvis.  

The former GP, Director of Public Health and Medical Director was tragically killed in a terrorist attack while holidaying in Sri Lanka. 

She studied medicine at The University of Manchester and started her medical career as a GP in Salford. 

Her brother Lord Keith Bradley will today (9/07/25) present this year’s prize to Mark Westwood, who received a distinction at the 13th International Festival of Public Health. 

Mark, who has worked in the NHS and volunteered with the Scouting movement is hoping to join the University as a PhD student. 

Lord Keith Bradly – a Labour Party politician created the award in his sister’s name to recognise highest achieving Masters in Public Health (MPH) student from Greater Manchester. 

Prof Arpana Verma, Programme Director of the MPH said: “Sally was an inspiration to us all. Not only was she a remarkable clinician and public health doctor, she was a wife, sister, aunt, friend and colleague to countless many. 

“She was kind, clever and incredibly knowledgeable. She lit up the room with her charisma, charm and her infectious laugh. 

“There are no words to express our gratitude to Lord Bradley and Sally’s amazing family to honour our programme and our students with this inspirational award.” 

She added: “As we teach and train the next generation, we can give our students and alumni the incredible legacy Sally has left us. 

“Mark is a worthy recipient of this honour. He has been an exceptional student and will go on to make important contributions to the field of public health. 

“His voluntary work has been exceptional -  and signifies just how much he cares about the community in which he lives 

The Masters in Public health online programme, created in 2002 by Prof Dick Heller, was was one of first fully distance learning programmes in the UK. 

Since then it has grown to over 2,000 alumni from all over the world, offering fully flexible learning options to allow students to juggle working full time with their studies.

Lord Bradley said: “On behalf of my family, I am proud to pay tribute to my sister, Dr Sally Bradley, who was so cruelly killed alongside her husband Bill in the Easter Day bombings in Sri Lanka some 5 years ago. 

“Since that time, I have recovered numerous messages of kindness remembering Sally and conversations with many of her former colleagues and friends who stressed how inspirational she was to their careers and her utter commitment to preventative healthcare and the crucial role of public health in that endeavour. 

“I am delighted that Mark Westwood will receive this year’s Dr Sally Bradley prize. He clearly encapsulates the values that my sister tried to instil in public health in Manchester and well beyond. He is a tremendously worthy winner. 

“I and my family are honoured to ensure that Sally’s legacy will live on and that we all continue to strive for improved health and wellbeing throughout our communities.” 

Students can to learn the ‘art and the science’ of public health at their own pace, with a choice of over twenty different course units covering what professionals need for their careers in public health both here and internationally. 

The course concentrates on research-led teaching and students are encouraged to participate and learn from research partners and projects, especially for their dissertations. 

The themes of this year’s festival are AI and In-Silico Public Health, Women’s research and Inclusive Research. 

• More information on the Masters in public Health programme is available here
• Image is of Sally Bradley.

This empowering accelerator, crafted specifically for students and recent graduates, brought together 22 exceptional student founders from every corner of the University of Manchester. The breadth of talent included Computer Science innovators working alongside Biotechnology pioneers, Economics strategists collaborating with Chemical Engineering problem-solvers, with representation from undergraduates right through to PhD candidates. 

The intensive 12-week programme, designed to take participants from initial concept to business execution, concluded with presentations from all participating student startups. The session featured valuable feedback and insights from industry professionals Ranvir Singh (GC Angels) and Dan Sandler (CEO of Veridox), who provided expert guidance to the emerging entrepreneurs. Ranvir also shared his thoughts on the importance of persistence, that "Excellence in any field demands unwavering commitment and effort".

Throughout the programme, participants validated business ideas, developed actionable business models, created minimum viable products, and mastered essential skills including market validation, fundraising strategies, and pitching techniques. All 22 student entrepreneurs successfully presented their ventures, representing diverse sectors and innovative solutions.

Congratulations to all our graduates and their innovative ventures: 

• AccuNote - Evangelos Anapliotis  
• Aharik - Maansi Gupta  
• ARDHANN - Dr Sangeethsivan Sivakumar  
• Aurora-Hive - Yasar W Khan  
• Binary Aura - Taha Naeem  
• Branchify - Chih Chiang yang  
• CoordVenture - Ehsan Siddiqui  
• FoulGuardAI - Abdullah Albiladi  
• FurryWell - Pu-De Ciou  
• Groupy - Jonghun Lee  
• Gynomics - Dora Marčec  
• Neurotect - Dylan Simpson  
• PawFur - Donglin Zhao  
• PetFit - Rebecca Jibson  
• PulsR - Leo Feasby  
• PurFetch - Raymond Xiang Zheng  
• Quillall - Serban-Andrei Locota  
• Reviewer.Go - Altynai Mambetova  
• Sync It - Matilde Ferias  
• TerraIQ - Imaara Keshwani  
• UniSights - Sebastian Contreras Scheuermann  
• Vesta Capsules - Farah Frikha

The Venture Builder Programme has proved transformational for its founding cohort, providing essential frameworks for turning ambitious ideas into viable businesses.  

 "It has helped us validate our assumptions. Initially, we didn't know what would work and what wouldn't, what to scrap and what to keep. Venture Builder has helped us clarify our vision for our startup, so we can go from ideation to implementation", explains Andrei, who studies BSc International Business Finance and Economics at AMBS. This journey from uncertainty to clarity exemplifies how the programme equips participants with the critical thinking and strategic tools needed to navigate the challenging transition from concept to execution.

Looking Ahead: Demo Day 2025

The programme completion marks the beginning of the next phase for these emerging businesses. Participants will continue developing their ventures in preparation for the Venture Builder Demo Day on 8th October 2025.

The Demo Day represents a milestone in the entrepreneurial journey, offering participants a platform to demonstrate their progress, attract potential investment, and connect with key stakeholders in the Manchester startup ecosystem.

The Venture Builder Programme is powered by MEC and designed for UoM students and graduate founders ready to transform their ideas into viable businesses. More information can be found on our website including registering interest to be part of the 25/26 academic year cohort.  

Register your interest here for the Venture Builder Demo Day on the 8 October 2025.

Designed by the undergraduate Physics Society, the sculpture is based on the telescope’s original engineering blueprints, ensuring a high level of accuracy and detail. Student James Ruxton spent six months perfecting the design using computer software to model and test different structures, producing a 4,000-page instruction manual. He even custom-designed some Lego pieces, using a 3D printer to create bespoke bricks. 

James and fellow Physics Society members began building the sculpture in late April. The finished model weighs 30kg, with 12.5kg attributed to the dish alone. Due to its weight, the dish had to be reinforced with a steel pole—mirroring a real-life engineering challenge faced during the telescope’s original construction eighty years ago. 

The sculpture serves as a tribute to the University’s pioneering role in astrophysics and engineering. It will be on permanent display in the Schuster Building, housed in a specially modified cabinet alongside a Lego model of a Large Hadron Collider detector—built by students a decade ago. 

A unique feature of the sculpture is a brick which was signed by Dame Jocelyn Bell Burnell - the physicist who discovered Pulsars - during her visit to the University to deliver this year’s annual Bragg Lecture in March.  

The sculpture arrives in time to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Jodrell Bank, a site of immense significance to The University of Manchester and to science in the UK.  

Professor Chris Parkes, Head of the Physics and Astronomy department, has been supporting the students with their project. He reflected: “Jodrell Bank has always been a symbol of bold innovation - pushing the boundaries of science and engineering from its earliest days.  

In December 1945, physicist Bernard Lovell travelled from Manchester to a quiet field in Cheshire hoping to explore the use of radar in cosmic ray detection. Instead, this became the start of the Physics Department's world-famous Jodrell Bank radio astronomy observatory.  

Over the following 12 years, Lovell and his team constructed the telescope that now bears his name. Its global importance was confirmed in 1957 when it became the only instrument capable of tracking the rocket carrying Sputnik 1, launched by the Soviet Union during the Space Race.  

Since then, the Lovell Telescope has stood at the forefront of astronomical research. In 2019, the Jodrell Bank Observatory was granted UNESCO World Heritage status, further cementing its legacy as a beacon of scientific innovation. 

As the driving force behind the university’s student entrepreneurial ecosystem, MEC continues to connect and teach ambitious students with the resources, networks, and insights they need to succeed. The event, part of the Alliance Manchester Business School's Festival of Business, showcased the depth and vibrancy of Manchester's entrepreneurial community whilst delivering practical insights and forging meaningful connections.

Innovating Tomorrow: Dr Vivek Koncherry's Keynote 

Dr Vivek Koncherry (CEO and Chairman of Graphene Innovations Manchester Ltd) opened the day with a compelling keynote that demonstrated how technical expertise can be transformed into commercial success. Drawing from his journey as a materials researcher turned successful entrepreneur, Dr Koncherry shared invaluable insights about the importance of alignment in all aspects of business and life. 

His key messages resonated throughout the room:  

"Alignment is important in all areas of life. Pick people who align with you." 

"If you're doing something, do it really fast. It gives you time to modify. Be open to change."  

These principles of speed, adaptability, and strategic alignment set the tone for a day focused on practical wisdom and action orientation  

For students looking to transform their entrepreneurial expertise into commercial ventures, the Manchester Venture Builder programme offers structured support to navigate this transition. Learn more here about how the programme helps turn innovative ideas into thriving businesses. 

AI Productivity Workshop: Immediate Impact 

The AI Productivity Workshop, co-delivered by Julia Wardley-Kershaw (MEC) and Mohamed Abbas (MEC) provided attendees with hands-on experience using cutting-edge AI tools they could implement immediately in their work and accelerate their startup trajectories. The session demonstrated how AI adoption doesn't require technical expertise - just the willingness to experiment and adapt these powerful tools to specific business needs.

Investment Realities: The Funding Session 

Dan Sandler (CEO of Veridox.ai) and Ranvir Singh (Investment Manager of GC Angels) delivered a session on investment realities, combining the perspectives of a serial entrepreneur and professional investor. Their insights challenged conventional fundraising wisdom whilst providing actionable guidance for entrepreneurs at all stages. 

The session's standout insight came from the emphasis on strategic alignment: "Alignment is everything. Be selective about your investors - pick those who truly align with your vision. You'll make mistakes along the way, but that's exactly how you learn and grow." This message reinforced Dr Koncherry's opening theme whilst providing specific guidance on investor relations and fundraising strategy. 

Made in Manchester: Ecosystem Speed Pitching

Led by Dan Syder (MEC), the Made in Manchester speed pitching session connected student entrepreneurs directly with representatives from eleven key organisations. This session proved particularly valuable for student entrepreneurs seeking to understand the comprehensive landscape of support available locally. 

From funding and investment (Manchester Angels, Praetura Ventures) to government support and innovation programmes (Innovate UK, STFC), professional services (KPMG), accelerator programmes (NatWest Accelerator, Chimera Start-ups), business growth support (GM Business Growth Hub), digital expertise (Manchester Digital), sustainability focus (Sustainable Ventures), and creative sector support (Department), the breadth of specialised assistance available within Manchester's ecosystem was eye opening. Dr Rob Martin and Mohamed Abbas (MEC) also participated in the session further demonstrating the entrepreneurial support available for students. The collaborative spirit of Manchester's business community was evident throughout the session. As one ecosystem partner noted: "We're here because we believe in the power of community, we believe in entrepreneurship and we believe talent is everywhere." Another emphasised the local advantage: "Manchester is full of talent and knowledge."  

Entrepreneurs@Manchester Panel: Authentic Insights

The day concluded with a panel discussion featuring three successful entrepreneurs from different sectors. Farah Kabir (Co-founder of HANX), Josiah Edebiri (Co-founder of  UrbanWatt), and David Levine (Principal of Manchester Angels) shared authentic insights about their entrepreneurial journeys, expertly moderated by Axel Threlfall (Editor-at-Large of Reuters). 

The panel delivered exactly what was promised—honest, practical wisdom from founders who have navigated the challenges attendees were facing. A particularly prescient insight came from the discussion about pace and adaptation in today's business environment:  

"You have to grow insanely fast in this age of AI." 

The quality of moderation and the willingness of panellists to share successes and setbacks created the kind of authentic dialogue that transforms understanding of what entrepreneurship entails. 

Looking Forward

This event showcased why Manchester's entrepreneurial ecosystem continues to thrive. The combination of world-class educational institutions, supportive infrastructure, collaborative community spirit, and access to both local and international opportunities create an environment where ambitious entrepreneurs can flourish. 

MEC continues to lead efforts in connecting and supporting Manchester's startup entrepreneurial community, providing the platforms, insights, and networks that transform student entrepreneurial aspirations into commercial achievements.

Ready to be part of Manchester's entrepreneurial story? Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, established business leader, or potential mentor, MEC offers programmes and services designed to accelerate the student entrepreneurship journey. We're here to connect students with the opportunities, expertise, and networks that drive real impact. 

We're actively seeking experienced mentors to guide the next generation of Manchester entrepreneurs. Your expertise could be the catalyst that transforms an innovative idea into a thriving business. If interested, please see this form.   

Discover more on MEC’s offerings: https://www.entrepreneurship.manchester.ac.uk/what-we-do/ 

To everyone who joined us - thank you for making it incredible. To those who missed it - we'll see you at the next one 

The Masood Entrepreneurship Centre is part of The Alliance Manchester Business School, supporting entrepreneurs at all stages of their journey through events, programmes, and ecosystem connections. For information about upcoming events and entrepreneurship programmes, visit our events page on our website or follow us on LinkedIn. 

The Tower was taken out of service in 2021 with demolition beginning in 2024. It was completed in Spring 2025, with the demolition carried out by Manchester-based company P.P. O’Connor. 

Modern and high-quality student accommodation will be built on the site, bringing the wider Fallowfield Campus offering up to 5,400 student beds. The project will deliver 3,300 updated bedspaces as well as replacing some of the existing accommodation. 

Planning permission for the new accommodation was secured following public consultation with local groups, residents, staff and students. 

Owens Park Tower will be remembered fondly as a focal point of the Fallowfield Campus by former residents and alumni of The University of Manchester. 

Built in the 1960s, Owens Park housed thousands of students every year, and previous famous residents include actor Benedict Cumberbatch, comedian Rik Mayall, and Radiohead guitarist Ed O'Brien. 

Barra Mac Ruairí, Chief Property Officer at The University of Manchester said: “Owens Park Tower will always be remembered by generations of staff and students. For many of our alumni, it was their first home in this city.  

“But a great new chapter awaits our Fallowfield Campus, and I am excited to see our bold vision for modern student accommodation, which reflects our commitment to providing an exceptional living environment, come to life.” 

Along with Owens Park, Oak House and Woolton Hall will eventually also be redeveloped. The changes come at a time of increasing demand for student accommodation in Manchester, with the University committed to providing inclusive and safe accommodation in sociable surroundings.  

The consortium Virdis (comprised of John Graham Construction Ltd, Equitix and Derwent FM) is driving the Fallowfield Campus redevelopment project forward in line with the University’s aspiration to create a greener, more sustainable future at the campus, rooted in the delivery of an unrivalled student experience. 

Dr Simon Merrywest, Executive Director for the Student Experience at The University of Manchester, said: “Every student that studies with us deserves a safe place to call home and a learning environment that supports them in reaching their full potential. We are investing in our Fallowfield Campus to ensure it meets the needs of our students. 

“We are always listening and working to improve the experience of our students, and we understand the availability of high-quality, good value student accommodation is insufficient in this city. The changes to our Fallowfield Campus will bring seismic benefits to our student community, from the moment they arrive to the day they graduate.” 

On Wednesday 11 June, the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre (MEC) at The University of Manchester celebrated a landmark year with the Venture Further Awards 2025 — the UK’s leading university-led start-up competition.

Marking the Centre’s 25th anniversary, this year’s awards attracted a record-breaking 175 applications — a 22% rise on 2024 — reflecting Manchester’s growing reputation as a powerhouse for student innovation.

Twenty finalists pitched their ventures across five key categories — Environment, Healthcare, Services, Social, and Technology — with the winners of each category receiving £15,000 in equity-free funding from a total prize pot of £100,000. The awards ceremony took place at Sister, the University’s new home for innovation and collaboration, where several recent MEC startup alums are based.

This year’s finalists delivered bold, solutions-driven ideas tackling global challenges — from UrbanWatt’s wireless charging for electric vehicles to FlashAid AI’s rapid-response medical emergency help platform, which has already been seen on outlets such as Daily Mail and HealthInvestor UK.  The event showcased the depth of entrepreneurial talent emerging from The University of Manchester and underlined MEC’s vital role in helping students launch impactful ventures.

Venture Further 2025 Winners

Environment Category

• 1st Prize: Josiah Edebiri, UrbanWatt (School of Engineering, PhD in Electrical and Electronic Engineering)
• 2nd Prize: Farah Frikha, Vesta Capsules (Alum of School of Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering)

(Winners pictured with Giulia Sirigu, Scaleup Director at Innovate UK)

Healthcare Category

• 1st Prize: Grigorii Rodionov, FlashAid (Alum of School of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering BEng)
• 2nd Prize: Adrian Perez Barreto, Revine (CDT-Advanced Biomedical Materials)

(Winners pictured with Lee Pugalis, Deputy Director of the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre)

Services Category

• 1st Prize: Raymond Zheng, PurFetch (Alliance Manchester Business School, MBA)
• 2nd Prize: Sebastian Contreras, UniSights (Alliance Manchester Business School, BSc Management with Placement - Innovation, Strategy & Entrepreneurship)

(Winners pictured with Janine Smith, Director of GM Business Growth Hub)

Social Category

• 1st Prize: Bohyuck Han, The Senior Vision Project (Alliance Manchester Business School, MSc Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship)
• 2nd Prize: Derry Duffy, Cause (School of Social Sciences, BSocSc Politics and International Relations)

(Winners pictured with Carla Zuill, Founder of SheHUB.TV & Women's Empowerment Summit)

Technology Category

• 1st Prize: Patrick Sarsfield, Graphene Thermal (School of Natural Sciences (SNS), Researcher in Graphene NOWNANO CDT)
• 2nd Prize: Leo Feasby, PulsR (School of Natural Sciences (SNS), MPhys Physics with Astrophysics)

(Winners pictured with Andrew Dennison, Innovation Discovery Manager of Innovation Factory)

More information about winners

This year’s finalists presented powerful, purpose-led ventures addressing some of today’s most pressing challenges.

Environment Category Winners

UrbanWatt is making city transport greener and easier by helping businesses switch to electric vehicles. Their clever hands-free charging system means electric fleets can stay powered up without the hassle, making sustainable deliveries simpler than ever.

• Josiah Edebiri, UrbanWatt (School of Engineering, PhD in Electrical and Electronic Engineering)

Vesta Capsules is reimagining short stays with cosy, eco-friendly sleeping pods inspired by Japan’s capsule hotels. Designed for comfort, privacy, and sustainability, they offer a smart, modern alternative to traditional accommodation – all at an affordable price.

• Farah Frikha, Vesta Capsules (Alum of School of Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering)

Healthcare Category Winners

FlashAid AI is taking on one of healthcare’s biggest challenges – ambulance delays. Their smart platform helps get emergency help to people faster by improving how calls are handled, vehicles are dispatched, and routes are planned, all in real time.

• Grigorii Rodionov, FlashAid (Alum of School of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering BEng)

Revine is tackling the serious problem of diabetic limb ulcers with an easy-to-use patch that helps wounds heal faster and stay free from infection. Designed to boost recovery and monitor progress in real time, it offers a new, more effective way to care for long-term wounds.

• Adrian Perez Barreto, Revine (CDT-Advanced Biomedical Materials)

Services Category Winners

PurFetch is creating an app and smart pet companion to help owners understand how their pets are feeling. By spotting changes in behaviour or signs of health problems, it offers simple, personalised advice—plus a friendly robot to keep pets entertained and cared for.

• Raymond Zheng, PurFetch (Alliance Manchester Business School, MBA)

UniSights helps Latin American high school students explore study opportunities in the UK. It offers advice from current students, direct contact with universities, and smart tools to match them with the right courses—making the journey to study abroad simpler and more confident.

• Sebastian Contreras, UniSights (Alliance Manchester Business School, BSc Management with Placement - Innovation, Strategy & Entrepreneurship)

Social Category Winners

The Senior Vision Project tackles elderly poverty by creating part-time jobs that fit local needs. Their free AI-based dementia prevention programme offers cognitive training for seniors, while the data collected helps fund these community employment initiatives.

• Bohyuck Han, The Senior Vision Project (Alliance Manchester Business School, MSc Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship)

Cause is the first online giving platform designed specifically for small charities. It helps them connect with donors, raise funds, and grow by removing obstacles like high advertising costs and limited digital skills. With no platform or donation fees, Cause makes it easier for small charities to maximise their impact.

• Derry Duffy, Cause (School of Social Sciences, BSocSc Politics and International Relations)

Technology Category Winners

Graphene Thermal offers innovative heating with self-contained graphene floor panels. These panels heat up in seconds and use over 50% less energy than traditional underfloor systems, providing an efficient, low-maintenance solution for homes and businesses.

• Patrick Sarsfield, Graphene Thermal (School of Natural Sciences (SNS), Researcher in Graphene NOWNANO CDT)

PulsR is an innovative AI company offering a range of smart tools that help with tasks like creating images, writing, working with spreadsheets, coding, and solving maths problems. With over 10 million conversations and top ratings on ChatGPT’s app store, PulsR supports students, professionals, and businesses to work smarter and more creatively.

• Leo Feasby, PulsR(School of Natural Sciences (SNS), MPhys Physics with Astrophysics)

The evening celebrated not only the immediate winners but also the broader impact of entrepreneurship at the university. 

Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester

The evening celebrated not only the immediate winners but also the broader impact of entrepreneurship at the university. Speaking at the Award ceremony, Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, said:

The transformational impact of the awards was further emphasised by Mehdi Boudjadja, VFA23 winner and founder Metofico, who reflected: "Winning the Venture Further Awards was transformational, beyond the crucial funding, MEC gave us the confidence, resources, and belief to turn our start-up into a global business. Without their support, we wouldn't be where we are today."

Faculty Representation

This year’s Venture Further Awards spotlighted the impressive entrepreneurial breadth across The University of Manchester, with a particularly strong showing from the Faculty of Science and Engineering, which led the way with ten finalists. Close behind, the Faculty of Humanities demonstrated remarkable enterprise flair, fielding eight finalists—six of whom hailed from the Alliance Manchester Business School alone. Completing the diverse line-up were two healthcare-focused ventures from the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, reflecting the growing innovation emerging from the university’s life sciences community.

About the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre

For 25 years, the Centre has empowered the next generation of business leaders through dedicated programmes, co-curricular activities, personalised advice, and competitions like Venture Further, creating pathways for entrepreneurial talent to flourish beyond university walls.

More Information

• See the full list of MEC programmes.

Jenn is Professor of Assessment and Educational Advancement and Vice-Dean for Teaching, Learning, Students in the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, and will succeed Professor April McMahon. 

Jenn will be part of the University Executive and will be responsible for the education portfolio, enabling our students to reach their full potential and providing learners of all ages and backgrounds the chance to contribute to positive social change, improving their lives and those of others.  

She will work closely with colleagues across the University to deliver the highest levels of student satisfaction and embrace digital opportunities. Her role is responsible for providing a clear vision for the teaching and learning goals of the University and for the enhancement of the student experience.  

Jenn brings a wealth of experience to the role: in policy development, educational innovation, and cross-sector collaboration, with a particular focus on assessment reform, improving staff culture, integrating generative AI, learning analytics, and embedding the student voice.  She also works closely with educational bodies across both health and broader education sectors, contributes to parliamentary reform in higher education policy, and serves as a governor on local civic and further education boards, ensuring her practice remains grounded in both national priorities and community impact. 

With a disciplinary background in psychology, Jenn brings deep expertise in psychometrics, mixed-methods research, and digital education. Her academic leadership has secured multi-million-pound investments in combined research and philanthropic funding, for educational development, driving initiatives that have reformed policy and practice nationally and internationally. 

She said: “As a former widening participation student and proud Mancunian, I am deeply committed to improving access to higher education in the region, particularly for underrepresented and disadvantaged communities. This is a really important time of change for the sector and Manchester, with the emergence of new digital technologies and our 2035 strategy. 

“It’s for everyone who works at the University to help our students succeed and grow, whatever their backgrounds, and I’m proud and excited to be taking up this role at such a critical moment.” 

Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor said: “Our Manchester 2035 listening work made clear that that our community is excited about digital, flexible learning and more support for our students, and Jenn brings great experience and passion in these areas, and more. 

“She has a deep connection to Manchester and a commitment to partnership which will be crucial in delivering on these priorities. I want to thank Professor April McMahon for her work in driving this agenda, most notably her staunch commitment to working closely with our students.” 

This impactful service-based learning challenge provided students with immersive, hands-on experience addressing genuine challenges faced by local charities, social enterprises, and non-profit organisations. Each team demonstrated exceptional professionalism, strategic insight, and the ability to deliver meaningful, impactful solutions.

Participating Teams and Their Achievements

• Manchester Media Group / Students’ Union
  Explored business strategy and new revenue opportunities.
  Team: Brenda Chan, Seojun Lee, Huawei Huang, Almos Laskowski, Maggie Tjen
   
• Action for Conservation
  Created a partner network and sourced materials to suit a minimal budget.
  Team: Blessing Koomson, Hei Man Valerie Tam, Yan Ue Natalie Tse
   
• National Football Museum
  Developed a social media strategy to boost engagement and implement sustainable content practices.
  Team: Layan Aljohani, Rimaz Alandijani, Fatimah Al Dibil
   
• Democracy Volunteers
  Evaluated election threats and helped draft a report for councils, policymakers and election bodies.
  Team: Noreen Khan, Alex Park, Jiya Grover

What Is the Enterprise Challenge?

The Manchester Enterprise Challenge is designed to integrate enterprise education with practical consulting and project management experience in authentic business environments. This unique opportunity allows students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios whilst developing valuable professional skills.

How to Apply

The Enterprise Challenge is open to undergraduate students enrolled in one of the following UCIL/MEC entrepreneurship-related elective units:

• Developing an Entrepreneurial Mindset
• Essential Enterprise 
• Entrepreneur: Innovator and Risk-taker 
• Introduction to Sports Management: Innovation, Marketing, Strategy and Sustainability

For complete eligibility criteria and application details, please visit the UCIL website.

It is the first time course providers have been subject to formal quality assurance by the regulator, which took on the responsibility of regulating PAs and Anaesthesia Associates (AAs) , of which overseeing and approving training courses is a key component, in December last year. 

PAs are healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of a senior doctor, such as a hospital consultant or a GP. 

Once they have completed two years of postgraduate training, they perform different clinical duties including taking medical histories, carrying out physical examinations, and developing and managing treatment plans. 

However, they are unable to prescribe medication or request ionising radiation, such as a chest X-ray or a CT scan.

Professor Tony Heagerty, Head of the School of Medical Sciences, said: “By handling routine care, follow-ups, and minor procedures, physician associates can improve workflow and reduce waiting times, as well as give doctors the time to focus on more complex cases.

“We are delighted to receive formal approval by the General Medical Council to teach physician associates to support this valuable addition to the NHS.”

In addition, three Anaesthesia Associate (AA) courses also received approval by the GMC.

Professor Colin Melville, the GMC’s Medical Director and Director of Education and Standards, said: “This is an important milestone in the regulation of PAs and AAs and will provide assurance, now and in the future, that those who qualify in these roles have the appropriate skills and knowledge that patients rightly expect and deserve.

“As a regulator, patient safety is paramount, and we have a robust quality assurance process for PA and AA courses, as we do for medical schools. We have been engaging with course providers for several years already, and we only grant approval where they meet our high standards.”

What distinguishes these University entrepreneurs? Each finalist has identified real-world challenges and developed innovative approaches that show great potential. From sustainable environmental solutions to ground-breaking healthcare technologies, these ideas showcase the incredible talent nurturing within our university walls.

In this milestone 25th Anniversary year of the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre, the competition holds special significance as we reflect on a quarter-century of fostering innovation and entrepreneurial excellence at The University of Manchester.

After an intense selection process, the finalists are competing for funding of up to £15,000 in one of the five categories: Environment, Healthcare, Services, Social & Technology. The winners will be announced at our awards ceremony on 11 June.

Environment Category

Josiah Edebiri - UrbanWatt 

School of Engineering, PhD EEE 

UrbanWatt is revolutionising sustainable urban logistics by simplifying the commercial adoption of Light-EVs through integrated wireless power technology, AI-driven optimisation, and smart charging systems.

Farah Frikha - Vesta Capsules 

School of Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering 

Inspired by Japanese capsule hotels, Vesta Capsules offers affordable, eco-friendly sleeping pods built with smart technology and sustainable materials, providing a modern alternative to traditional accommodations.

Mohammad Israil Hossain - Aqua Graph 

School of Natural Sciences, Nano and Functional Materials 

Aqua Graph has developed graphene-based filtration technology where micro-sponges can adsorb harmful chemicals from wastewater up to their own weight, with a reversible process allowing for material recovery and reuse.

Thando Mathe - Khuluma 

School of Environment, Education and Development, MSc Global Development Environment and Climate Change 

Khuluma uses AI-driven climate communication to break language barriers across Africa, making critical climate information accessible to diverse communities.

Healthcare Category

Adrian Perez Barreto - Revine 

CDT-Advanced Biomedical Materials 

Revine addresses diabetic limb ulcers with a graphene-based electrostimulation patch that enhances tissue regeneration while preventing infection, with integrated biosensors providing real-time wound data.

Indu Khemchandani - DiabetesCareAI 

Alliance Manchester Business School, MBA 

DiabetesCareAI is an AI-powered app helping users manage diabetes through real-time insights, personalised recommendations, and seamless device integration, with a freemium model and B2B partnerships.

Grigorii Rodionov - FlashAid AI 

School of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering BEng 

FlashAid AI tackles ambulance delays with an AI-powered platform for emergency response featuring instant triage, smart dispatch, real-time tracking, and dynamic routing optimised for traffic conditions.

Jasper Beaumont - Mend 

School of Medical Sciences, MBChB Medicine 

Mend is an AI-powered digital mental health platform helping patients build positive lifestyle habits through automated tracking, personalised care insights, and data-driven recommendations.

Services Category

Usman Aziz - JIFFL

Alliance Manchester Business School, PhD Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy 

JIFFL is a SaaS platform revolutionising part-time recruitment with an end-to-end solution enabling all recruitment stages on a mobile app and website, supported by machine learning and NLP for automated interviews.

Xiang Zheng - Purfetch 

Alliance Manchester Business School, MBA 

Purfetch combines an AI-powered app and pet robot to help owners better understand their pets' emotional changes, behaviours, and health needs through real-time analysis and personalised care advice.

Matilde Lerias - Syncit

Alliance Manchester Business School, MSc Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship

Syncit is a fitness app that considers the menstrual cycle, providing science-backed personalised fitness, nutrition, and wellbeing plans to help women maintain consistent routines.

Sebastian Contreras - Unisights

Alliance Manchester Business School, BSc Management (Innovation, Strategy & Entrepreneurship) with Placement

Unisights connects Latin American high school students with UK universities through insights from current students, direct access to university representatives, and AI-powered university matching.

Social Category

Alex Kapadia - Pomelo

School of Natural Sciences, Earth and Planetary Science 

Pomelo is an AI-powered platform making local shopping more affordable and convenient by connecting users with nearby food suppliers and chefs, with smart meal planning to reduce food waste.

Bohyuck Han - The Senior Vision Project

Alliance Manchester Business School, MSc Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship

The Senior Vision Project addresses elderly poverty by creating meaningful part-time employment and providing AI-powered dementia prevention training, with data sales reinvested into senior employment projects.

Derry Duffy - Cause

School of Social Sciences, BSocSc Politics and International Relations

Cause is the first online giving platform built specifically for small charities, removing fundraising barriers with no platform fees and enabling connections through data-driven recommendations.

Oboroghene Ogbevire - PalmPro

School of Biological Sciences, Biochemistry BSc (Hons)

PalmPro is pioneering sustainable palm oil extraction through extremophile-derived enzymes that enhance oil yield while reducing environmental impact, with profits reinvested in small-scale producers.

Technology Category

Patrick Johansen Sarsfield - Graphene Thermal

School of Natural Sciences, Graphene NOWNANO CDT

Graphene Thermal specialises in cutting-edge graphene heated floor panels that reach their target temperature in seconds while consuming over 50% less power than conventional underfloor heating.

Dr Sangeethsivan Sivakumar - Ardhann

School of Natural Sciences, PhD Materials

Ardhann develops advanced carbon fibre composites and graphene-based solutions for hydrogen and hydrocarbon storage systems, with integrated monitoring and a SAAS platform for predictive maintenance.

Leo Benjamin Feasby - PulsR

School of Natural Sciences, MPhys Physics with Astrophysics

PulsR offers a suite of AI-powered GPTs including Image Generator Pro and Excel AI, with over 10 million chats and top rankings on ChatGPT's store, enhancing productivity across various fields.

Eduardo Marques - Amplify

School of Engineering, BEng Mechatronic Engineering

Amplify is building a non-invasive Brain-Computer Interface wearable that reads brain signals and uses AI to decode them into commands, streamlining repetitive tasks for 10x productivity.

MEC would like to invite the community at The University of Manchester in congratulating these remarkable entrepreneurs on reaching the finals of the Venture Further Awards 2025. Their innovative ideas showcase the exceptional talent and entrepreneurial spirit within the University ecosystem.

Stay tuned for the announcement of winners on 11 June!

#VentureFurtherAwards2025 #Entrepreneurship #Innovation #StartupCompetition

Find out more about the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre (MEC) on our website here.

Along with Anglia Ruskin University, Birmingham City University, the University of East London and the University of Warwick, The University of Manchester will help with the adaptation of the EmilyTest GBV Charter framework for the English education system and its alignment with the new Office for Students Condition of Registration around harassment and sexual misconduct, which comes into effect as of 1 August 2025.

The Charter has already proved successful in Scotland, with 13 institutions actively engaging and 6 officially awarded.

The Charter is based on five principles: open and learning, educated and empowered, comprehensive and connected, equal and inclusive, and safe and effective.

EmilyTest was founded by Fiona Drouet after the tragic loss of her 18-year-old daughter, Emily, a law student who died by suicide following physical and psychological abuse by a fellow student while living in halls of residence.

Determined that no other victims and survivors are left under supported and at risk, Fiona established the EmilyTest charity which developed the first of its kind GBV Charter for universities and colleges. The Charter sets minimum standards in gender-based violence prevention, intervention and support, and assists institutions in asking if their policies, practices and procedures would have saved Emily’s life: ‘Would they pass the Emily test?’.

Dr Simon Merrywest, Executive Director for the Student Experience at The University of Manchester said: “We are proud to be one of the first English universities taking part in the EmilyTest pilot following its successful run in Scotland.

“Unfortunately, gender-based violence remains a prevalent issue throughout the UK higher education system today, and we will continue to do whatever it takes to keep all of our students safe and protected both on campus and in their residences. Having got to know Fiona through a shared interest in suicide prevention, and hearing her give powerful voice to Emily’s experiences and the aims of EmilyTest, I had no hesitation in us signing up. 

“We look forward to taking part in this very worthy initiative, learning from it, and making impactful changes over the next six months and beyond.” 

The University of Manchester has an existing specialist safeguarding team, Advice and Response, who provide holistic, trauma-informed support to students who have experienced any form of gender-based violence, harassment or hate. The Advice and Response team is made up of specialist caseworkers who provide confidential, practical, and emotional support to students directly and signposting to statutory and other services.

The University has made campus safety a key priority, adopting the SafeZone app in recent years to allow for faster potential response times when urgent help is required on campus or in the city. The SafeZone app can be used to ‘check in’ at any time of the day, quickly and discreetly call for assistance, and get medical help quickly.

The University of Manchester has also partnered with its Students’ Union to provide sexual violence support drop-in sessions which are open to anyone looking for support.

With participants from MEC programmes such as Ideas Lab and Get Started, as well as independent applicants from various disciplines, the event highlighted the dynamic entrepreneurial spirit within the university. Each pitch demonstrated exceptional creativity, strategic thinking, and presentation skills.

🎖 Announcing Our Winners 🎖

Batch 1:

• Niti Nararidh (Invenere)
• Evangelos Anapliotis (Accunote)
• Syed Syed Aarij Arifeen (Sportado)
• Sebastian Contreras Scheuermann (Unisights)
• Carlos Vivero Vivanco (Ethico)

Batch 2:

• Firaas Nasir & Jonghun Lee (Groupy)
• Arseniy Shumilin (Growthnexus)
• Jack Westbrook & Sofia Zinna (Cut 2 Career)

What is Ready, Set, Pitch?

Ready, Set, Pitch! is a platform designed for University of Manchester students eager to take their first steps into entrepreneurship. Whether launching a business, kickstarting a social enterprise, or developing an impactful project, this event provides an opportunity to refine ideas, gain exposure, and receive valuable feedback from experienced judges.

Participants have three minutes to present their business ideas, followed by a short Q&A session. Each event showcases some of the most promising student-led ventures, with the best pitches receiving financial support to help bring their ideas to life.

The competition is open to all students, including those from MEC’s Ideas Lab and Get Started programmes, as well as independent applicants from various faculties. Participants must submit a Pitch Deck, which outlines their business goals and market opportunities. This ensures they receive structured feedback and develop their entrepreneurial skills.

Why Participate?

• Boost your confidence in public speaking and pitching.
• Receive expert feedback to refine and strengthen your business idea.
• Join a network of like-minded innovators and entrepreneurial students.
• Gain access to resources that support early-stage startup development.

We extend our gratitude to the judges, Entrepreneurship Champions, and event organisers who made this event possible. Ready, Set, Pitch! continues to be a crucial platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to refine their ideas, build confidence, and receive valuable feedback.

We look forward to seeing these startups develop further and make an impact in their respective industries. Stay tuned for the next edition of Ready, Set, Pitch!

To find out more about MEC, head to our website: entrepreneurship.manchester.ac.uk

University of Manchester students embraced entrepreneurial spirit with this innovative online challenge-based programme, which creates a unique platform for students to explore their entrepreneurial potential, offering participants the opportunity to win up to £500 and develop critical entrepreneurial and employability skills.

Turning Ideas into Opportunities

The programme's inaugural run demonstrated remarkable traction, attracting 113 students from across The University and generating 38 innovative project submissions with a total prize pool of £10,500.

The inaugural programme generated impressive interest and students submitted exceptional quality work:

• Total Participants: 113 students enrolled
• Submissions: 38 innovative project proposals
• Prize Pool: £10,500 to fuel student innovation

University-Wide Participation

Participants spanned the entire academic spectrum - all nine Schools were represented in enrolments and participants spanned undergraduate to PhD - showcasing the programme's broad appeal. As it continues to evolve, Get Started promises to be a pivotal platform for student innovation, acting as an accessible first-step to explore entrepreneurial creativity.

• 9 schools represented in enrolments
• 8 schools submitted innovative proposals
• Participants spanning undergraduate to PhD levels

All Levels of Study: Undergraduate students formed the largest cohort at 52.2% of participants, with taught master's students making up 39.8% of the programme's participants. PhD and doctoral candidates rounded out the group, bringing their specialised knowledge and research-driven approach to the entrepreneurial landscape.

Top Three Schools: Alliance Manchester Business School was the most represented School with 43 students (38.1% of total participants). The School of Engineering followed closely with 23 students (20.4%), while the School of Social Sciences rounded out the top three with 15 students (13.3%).

Gaining Momentum

As opposed to a competition, Get Started submissions are awarded funding and feedback based on individual progress and potential. The programme serves as a catalyst for innovation, providing as many students as possible with the tools, support, and motivation to explore their entrepreneurial ideas. The programme embraces digital learning, embeds skills development within real-world problem-solving, and breaks down barriers to taking early steps in a business journey.

By bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world innovation, the University of Manchester is nurturing the next generation of creative thinkers and business leaders. Get Started will run eaech semester and has now also opened to The University of Manchester’s international partner institutions.

For more information about the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre, head to our website.

The application sets out detailed proposals relating to the appearance, landscaping, layout and scale of the scheme, which covers Owens Park, Oak House and Woolton Hall.

It builds on the Outline Planning Permission granted in January 2024.  

The application will now be evaluated by Manchester City Council’s planning department.

A five-week consultation and engagement exercise was completed throughout December 2024 and early January 2025 to ensure the views of the local community informed the proposals.

The ambitious redevelopment plans include the creation of 3,300 modern, high-quality student bedspaces, along with dedicated amenity space, ancillary residential dwellings and greenspaces. Five distinct neighbourhoods that celebrate local history and character, and a central hub as an anchor and heart of the campus, are features of the scheme.

Commenting on the submission of the Reserved Matters Planning Application, Dr Simon Merrywest, Director for the Student Experience, University of Manchester, said: “This is an important milestone in realising our vision for the Fallowfield Campus. The plans and proposals within the Reserved Matters Application reinforce our commitment to providing new and returning students with modern, high-quality accommodation, and will help us to meet the future needs of our student population.”

The project is being delivered by the Viridis Consortium - a partnership consisting of GRAHAM, Equitix and Derwent FM.

The demolition of the Owens Park Tower and surrounding buildings is ongoing.

Enabling works are progressing in preparation for the main construction programme, which will commence in 2026. The phased handover of buildings will allow students to move into their new homes at different points from 2027 through to 2030.

GRAHAM has led the planning process in collaboration with the University of Manchester, architects, Sheppard Robson, and planning consultants, Deloitte.

Neil McFarlane, GRAHAM Project Director for the Fallowfield Campus, said: “The planning submission is a further important milestone for the Fallowfield Campus project. It is the culmination of months of challenging work and an intensive programme of engagement with the University, staff, students and the local community. We believe the submitted plans will create an exemplar sustainable campus that will enhance the experience of the University’s next generation of students.”

Sustainable design and construction are embedded within the proposals. The development will be one of the largest Passivhaus developments in the world – meaning the buildings will use less energy, promote good indoor air quality and maintain comfortable temperatures year-round.

The development is also targeting BREEAM Excellent certification, a further independent sustainability assessment. The preservation of the mature landscape and enhanced green spaces are embedded within the plans.

Natalia Maximova, Associate Partner at Sheppard Robson Architects, who has managed the design process, said: “Our designs are inspired by the site's layers of history and its unique character, providing high-quality student homes and amenities in a rich parkland setting. The proposals rebuild the student community at Fallowfield and create a new generation of sustainable student homes."

Tristan Meredith, Equitix Development Director, added: “Equitix is committed to delivering best in class solutions with a core focus on sustainability. The submitted plans demonstrate our commitment to sustainable development while providing a world-class living experience for the University of Manchester’s future students.”

For more information on the Fallowfield Campus redevelopment, please visit: https://www.manchester.ac.uk/about/governance/corporate-documents/campus-masterplan/fallowfield-consultation 

A delegation of cross-faculty academics has joined Professor Ivison including Professor Stephen Flint, Associate Vice-President International, Professor Zhongdong Wang, Associate Dean for International in the Faculty of Science and Engineering, and Qing-Jun Meng, Associate Dean for International (Research & Innovation) in the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health.

For the first stop of the visit in Beijing, the delegation met with the British Embassy, the British Council and the China Scholarship Council before visiting partners of The University of Manchester, Tsinghua University and Peking University.

In Shanghai, academics met with staff and toured the facilities at the China Centre before visiting partner institutions Shanghai Jiao Tong University and Fudan University.

The trip concludes in Hong Kong, where the group will visit the East Asia Centre before spending the evening at a panel discussion held at the Asia Society Hong Kong Centre. There will also be a breakfast event with the Hong Kong Foundation for The University of Manchester (HKFUM).

Alumni receptions have been organised in Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong, to give the visiting academics the chance to meet with former students of the University.

This trip to China marks Professor Ivison’s first official overseas visit since assuming the post of President and Vice-Chancellor of the University in 2024.

Professor Ivison said: “The University of Manchester has a long and proud history of collaboration with our partners in China, and it has been so meaningful to connect with our alumni, staff, fellow universities and prospective students during our visit. Their experiences, insights and ongoing connection to Manchester are invaluable to us as we look to the future and continue to shape our Manchester 2035 strategy.

“International partnerships will remain a key focus for our University, and we look forward to progressing our relationships with our network in China over the coming years. In today’s complex global landscape, academic collaborations and the friendships forged by these exchanges are more important than ever.”

The University of Manchester is proud to have welcomed from China almost 10,000 students in 2024 and, as of 2023, 300 talented staff across academic and professional services roles.

The University is home to the Manchester China Insitute which seek mutual understanding between the British and Chinese peoples through research, students, social responsibility, and inclusion. The University’s Manchester Museum is home to the Lee Kai Hung Chinese Culture Gallery which offers a diverse and dynamic understanding of Chinese culture and the historical and contemporary links between Manchester and China.

The University of Manchester prides itself of being a truly international institution, welcoming one of the largest international student populations in the UK to our University each year. The University ranked 34th in the world (and 6th in the UK) in the 2025 QS World Rankings, scoring highly for international student ratio (99.2), international research network (99.2) and international faculty ratio (93.1).

The University of Manchester is recognised globally for its pioneering research, outstanding teaching and learning, and commitment to social responsibility. It ranks 52nd in the world (and 6th in the UK) in the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU). The University excels across multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is recognised second in the world in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings.

Founded by University of Manchester graduates Prithveesh Reddy and Harvey Lowe, Arcube has already caught the attention of industry insiders by winning the Venture Further Awards in the Technology category. Their platform leverages artificial intelligence to boost loyalty and ancillary revenue for airlines.

Making loyalty pay

Arcube’s flagship product, the “Passenger Intelligence Platform” is the world’s first post-flight solution. It uses advanced data analytics to track passenger behaviour and suggest personalised upsells immediately after a flight. The technology was trialled by Etihad Airways, generating $1.6 million in extra revenue from just 1,300 passengers over the course of a year and achieving a notable 10.3% increase in average order value.

Airlines have long struggled to build loyalty among infrequent flyers. Many passengers hold dormant loyalty accounts with insufficient points to redeem meaningful rewards. Arcube’s solution enables passengers to convert their unused miles into ancillaries such as priority boarding, fast-track security and lounge access. These ancillaries are reserved for a future booking, to incentivise the passengers return to the same airline.

Reddy explained, “Airlines have vast amounts of passenger data—what people eat on board, how early they arrive at the airport, how long they spend in lounges—but much of it goes unused. Our platform bridges that gap by offering tailored, real-time options to passengers as soon as they get off the flight.”

 From student project to startup success

Arcube’s journey began at The University of Manchester’s Masood Entrepreneurship Centre (MEC), which was established by Alliance Manchester Business School (AMBS) enterprise lecturers in 2000 and provides resources and support for budding entrepreneurs. The duo started by taking part in the Centre’s entrepreneurship courses and later secured early-stage funding through MEC’s Kickstarter scheme. Earlier this year, Arcube took first place in the prestigious Venture Further Awards, one of the UK’s leading university startup competitions. “The Masood Entrepreneurship Centre gave us a vital platform,” said Lowe. “Their mentorship and financial support have played a crucial role in our progress.”

The company has also recently secured the Turing Innovation Catalyst Manchester AI innovation grant.

Building trust with industry giants

Breaking into the airline industry is notoriously difficult for newcomers, but Arcube managed to convince Etihad Airways to pilot its technology. Lowe reflected on the challenge: “We didn’t have a track record, so we offered to build the software at our own risk, asking only for a share of the additional revenue we could generate. It was a bold approach, but after months of negotiations, Etihad agreed.” The pilot scheme’s results speak for themselves. With Etihad handling over 17 million passengers annually, the potential for rolling out the solution on a larger scale is substantial.

Looking ahead

Having recently graduated, Reddy and Lowe are now focusing on scaling their operation. They are in discussions with 14 airlines globally and aim to establish Arcube as a leader in the burgeoning travel ancillary data market. “Our ambition is to create the world’s largest data set for travel ancillaries,” Reddy said. “Ancillaries already account for up to 20% of revenue for traditional airlines, and for low-cost carriers, it’s often more than 50%. We’re starting with airlines, but our vision extends to the entire travel ecosystem—car rentals, cruise lines, hotels.” With a combination of technical expertise, entrepreneurial grit, and early success, Arcube looks set to become a major player in travel tech. As the startup scales its platform and expands its client base, it’s poised to offer a smarter, data-driven approach to airline loyalty and revenue generation.

Read more about Arcube's success here.

Masood Entrepreneurship Centre (MEC)

The Masood Entrepreneurship Centre (MEC) is the focal point for enterprise and entrepreneurship teaching, learning and startup support at The University of Manchester. Find out more about our on- and co-curricular activities here.

Revealed today, The University ranks in the top 50 globally for five subject areas: Social Sciences, Business Economics, Engineering, Arts and Humanities and Medical and Health, with the strongest performance in Business Economics (32^nd) and Social Sciences (37^th).  

The University also featured in the top 100 worldwide for all 11 subject areas which are assessed, an achievement only shared by 7 other UK institutions. Among the six subject areas not yet in the top 50 there were significant climbs in the rankings for Computer Science and Law. 

This ranking uses key performance indicators to measure 5 core pillars of evaluation; teaching, research environment, research quality, industry partnerships and international outlook.  

Professor Colette Fagan, Vice-President for Research, said: “This latest influential global subject ranking provides additional evidence of our research and teaching strengths across the University – something to pause on and celebrate as we develop our Manchester 2035 strategy. Having achieved this global standing our job now is to work together, with ambition and focus, to do even better.” 

Professor April McMahon, Vice-President for Teaching Learning and Students, said: “It’s a pleasure to welcome these rankings for our University, which demonstrate our strength and breadth across so many subject areas. It is important for us to benchmark our results to guide us in improving our design and delivery of high-quality teaching and learning in Manchester even further.” 

The THE Subject Rankings are one of three major international subject ranking exercises that the University tracks to benchmark its performance. In the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024, the University ranked in the top 35 globally for each of the five broad subject groups – Arts and Humanities (27), Engineering and Technology (27), Life Science and Medicine (30), Natural Sciences (33), Social Sciences and Management (28). 

In the 2024 Shanghai Rankings’ Global Ranking of Academic Subjects (AWRU), the University was placed among the top 25 worldwide in seven of 46 subjects, ranked first in the UK for four subjects and moved up in 21 subjects thanks to our research excellence and impact. 

With an overall score of 98.3 out of 100—an improvement from last year’s 98.0—the University ranks 9th out of 1,751 institutions, placing it within the top 1% of universities globally. This achievement builds on Manchester’s reputation as the only university in the world to feature in the top 10 in both the QS Sustainability Rankings and the 2024 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, which measure progress towards the vitally important UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

The UK has 26 universities in the top 100 globally and more top 10 universities than any other country or territory. 

The QS Sustainability Rankings were launched in 2022, these rankings evaluate ESG performance through research, teaching, public engagement, and university operations, using data from policies, case studies, staff and alumni surveys, and research outputs. 

The University’s strong position reflects the commitment to ongoing research excellence and the contributions of highly-cited researchers working towards the SDGs in areas such as the Manchester Environmental Research Institute, the Global Development Institute and the Sustainable Consumption Institute. 

The University was able to demonstrate its commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion through policies like the Dignity at Work and Study Policy and its ambitious 2038 Decarbonisation Plan, which includes a landmark deal to build a solar farm with 104,000 panels supplying 65% of the University’s electricity. 

In teaching evaluations, our taught programmes have been recognised as highly valuable, such as the MSc in Climate Change, delivered by the School of Environment, Education and Development, to equip students to address climate and nature crises. 

The University’s public engagement programmes, such as the award-winning Poverty Matters programme which engages communities to tackle pressing social issues like child poverty, contribute highly to the institution’s positive societal impact. Last year the University was also awarded a Platinum Watermark award by the National Co-ordinating Centre for Public Engagement (NCCPE), which recognises universities’ engagement with the public. Manchester is only the second university to be successful in achieving the Platinum award.  

Dr Julian Skyrme, Executive Director of Social Responsibility and Civic Engagement, said: “This independent ranking by QS draws on a range of evidence of our social and environmental impact across research, teaching, public engagement, and university operations. This excellent result reflects the work of thousands of staff, students, alumni, and external partners and should be a source of pride for our whole community.” 

Professor Nalin Thakkar, Vice-President for Social Responsibility, added: “We want to be a world leader in social responsibility and environmental sustainability. This latest assessment of our impact by QS helps ensure people around the world are attracted to partner with us, or come here to work and study, because of our reputation for social responsibility. Well done to everyone in our community who has contributed to this success.” 

Explore how The University of Manchester is advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals by visiting our website. 

Further details on the QS Sustainability Rankings’ methodology and weighting are available on the QS website.