Our work on 2D materials is revolutionising many different fields of research and development.
We are exploring areas as diverse as ultra-durable composite materials, advanced membranes for applications like water filtration, and ground-breaking biomedical applications like biosensors.
We are also leading on the development of thin, flexible and transparent electronic components, using 2D materials to engineer materials with bespoke characteristics from atomic planes, and advancing high-capacity energy storage.
Enabling sustainable food production
Using 2D materials-based membranes for more healthy, sustainable and responsible plant-based food production.
Treating respiratory disease
Developing a new type of wearable sensor paving the way to improved monitoring of respiratory health.
Creating energy from rain
Using graphene nanocapillaries to explore the development of a brand-new form of renewable energy.
Our seamless pipeline of support
Our integrated support model guides partners from early-stage research through to scale-up and market readiness. By combining academic insight, specialist facilities and commercial expertise, we help organisations de-risk innovation and accelerate progress with confidence.
National Graphene Institute
Early-stage research, supporting the journey from discovery to real-world translation
Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre
Rapid development and scale-up, helping companies to design, develop and 'de-risk'
University’s scale up ecosystems
Networks providing partners with a path to accelerate commercialisation
Impactful innovation network
Innovation in graphene and 2D materials at The University of Manchester is rooted in the isolation of graphene and the research ecosystem that has grown from it. As the home of graphene, the University brings together long-standing expertise, world-leading facilities and interdisciplinary research to support innovation grounded in fundamental science.
This depth of research enables confident translation from discovery to application. Building on decades of work in graphene and 2D materials, Manchester supports innovation through established pathways that connect researchers, facilities and partners, turning research insight into practical solutions.
"The University of Manchester has led the 21st‑century revolution in 2D materials, transforming the isolation of graphene into a global platform for innovation. What began as a scientific breakthrough has become a mainstream enabling technology reshaping healthcare, sustainability and entire economies. This is because we’ve built a collaborative ecosystem here at Manchester, where we're translating world‑class research into real‑world impact. Most importantly, we’re ensuring that the skills, opportunities and benefits of this ecosystem are shared globally, creating a pipeline of talent and innovation for the future."
John WhittakerManaging Director of the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre
The impact of this innovation-led approach is reflected in measurable outcomes. The University has filed more than 100 patents, protecting breakthrough discoveries in graphene and 2D materials and supporting the UK’s position in advanced materials research and innovation.
This research activity has also led to the creation of 65 spin-out companies, translating graphene and 2D materials research into new businesses and commercial applications.
In Greater Manchester, this activity has contributed £9.5m to the regional economy through investment and the creation of skilled jobs.
Our commitment to collaboration is reflected in the partnerships we build and the outcomes they deliver. By working closely with partners, each collaboration is shaped around shared objectives, combining academic expertise with industry insight to accelerate innovation.
HydroGraph - a partner based in our commercialisation arm, Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre - is one example of how this approach works in practice. Through collaboration, specialist knowledge and access to world-leading facilities, research developed in Manchester has supported the transition from breakthrough science to scalable, real-world application and demonstrating how partnership can unlock new opportunities and deliver measurable impact.
HydroGraph
See why Kjirstin Breure, President and Interim CEO of Canadian company HydroGraph, regularly travels to Manchester to be part of our community.
Work with the University where graphene was first isolated and harness that unrivalled expertise to accelerate your innovation.
