31
May
2019
|
11:34
Europe/London

'Manchester model of innovation' showcased to MP

MP Sam Gyimah, former Minister for Universities, Science, Research and Innovation - and champion of a fairer share of the UK's research and development budget going to the regions - has taken the opportunity to see the 'Manchester model of innovation' first hand.

As part of a fact-finding tour organised by the Northern Powerhouse Partnership, Sam visited the advanced materials community at The University of Manchester - recognised as a pioneer in applying world-class research to meet real-world challenges.

Sam was given a tour of the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC) and heard from James Baker, CEO of Graphene@Manchester, on how this flagship facility is helping to fast-track 'lab-to-market' innovation based on groundbreaking applications around graphene and other two dimensional materials.

He then heard from Regius Professor Phil Withers, Chief Scientist at the Henry Royce Institute, the UK's national body for innovation in advanced materials based at Manchester. He explained how Manchester advocated collaboration with partner universities in a bid to find solutions to complex social and commercial challenges.

As well as leaders, Sam also had the opportunity to meet Graphene@Manchester postgraduate students and two apprentices, Aimen Fatima and Bradlee Eyres.

After his visit, Sam said: "I've enjoyed a really productive trip to meet researchers, innovators and apprentices at the GEIC and the Royce - institutions like this will be key to delivering economic growth, opportunity and high-paid jobs to every part of the UK."

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