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Research with purpose

Backing the researchers tackling today's most urgent problems

From the first computer to isolating graphene, you've seen what happens when we share our discoveries. Now we're backing those working on the next big breakthroughs – and you can help us go further.

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Pioneering discoveries that change lives worldwide

We're advancing research in health, sustainability and social justice.

Why it matters

Our researchers aren't just exploring the toughest questions of our time – they're answering them.

  • Turning world-changing discoveries into practical impact is what we do. From isolating graphene to building the first programmable computer and challenging social norms – we've led the way.
  • The great universities of the 21st century will be those getting their work out into the world and making a difference, faster – creating impact that otherwise wouldn't happen.
  • When you support research at Manchester, you're not just funding ideas – you're helping brilliant minds turn ambition into action, creating solutions that save lives, protect the planet and power positive change.

How it works

At Manchester, we're turning your generosity into life-changing breakthroughs.

  • Fuelled by donor support, our researchers have the freedom to take risks, ask bold questions and turn ideas into global solutions – from fighting blood cancers to transforming plastic waste, unlocking quantum technologies and advancing brain tumour research.
  • Through our Bicentenary PhD and Fellowship programme, we're nurturing the next generation of changemakers, building a pipeline of talent to shape the University's third century.
  • And together, we're creating a fairer, healthier world – reimagining global development and tackling inequalities that hold people back.

Case study

Improving outcomes for people with brain tumours

Every year, brain tumours claim more lives than any other form of cancer in children and young adults. At The University of Manchester, Professor Petra Hamerlik is leading pioneering research to change that.

As Chair of Translational Neuro-Oncology and Head of the Paterson Research Lab, she and her team are building new ways to detect brain tumours earlier and develop therapies that could give patients more time and a better quality of life. Challenge accepted. 

Read Petra's story
Professor Petra Hamerlik

Donor

"Don't hold back. Don't hesitate. By supporting Manchester's dynamic researchers with any donation, large or small, you could help change someone's life."

Judith Sear

Founder of the Sear Family Cancer Research Fund

Legacy supporter

"I want to create a future where intelligent minds are supported and empowered, enabling life-changing research that helps others – like the research at Manchester that supported my mum and improved her quality of life."

Heidi Kershaw

Alumna

Donor

"We work very much in partnership with the University. We can see where the funds go and the specific projects we're working on, and the outcomes of those funds."

Fiona Moss

The Natalie Kate Moss Trust

Legacy supporter

"Philanthropy should be used to catalyse bold activity that is less likely to be funded through traditional channels. We're pleased to be able to support the ambitious plan of the GDI to recast global development research."

Rory Brooks CBE

The Rory and Elizabeth Brooks Foundation

100% of your donation goes straight to the cause

No commission, no costs. Every penny you give fuels discoveries, real-world impact and student success.

Online giving is safe and secure

We use secure payment systems, never store your card details and you're covered by the Direct Debit Guarantee.

Choose how and when to give

Whether you give money, time or a legacy, you choose how and when to make your impact.

You’re joining a global community

Join the 5,000+ donors across the world who help our university deliver real-world change.

We’re transparent about impact

You'll hear real stories about how your gift helps us tackle urgent global challenges.

There’s a team to talk to

Have a question or need some help? We're a team of real people, ready to talk to you about your gift.

Choose how and when to give

Donate, volunteer, leave a gift in your will or discuss a transformational gift to empower bright minds and support breakthroughs for a healthier, fairer and more sustainable future.

"Philanthropy gives our researchers the flexibility to act more quickly, deepen collaboration, and translate insight into impact.

"It helps us connect ideas across disciplines and deliver research that reaches further – into policy, practice, and communities."

Professor Colette Fagan, Vice-President for Research

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Colette Fagan