Academic Partners
University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham has a strong legacy in robotics, AI, and manufacturing innovation. The University of Birmingham Institute for Robotics unites engineering, computing, and AI to advance autonomous systems, medical, and rail applications. Major projects in nuclear robotics and circular manufacturing drive sustainable breakthroughs, while the Energy and Magnetic Materials groups develop sustainable battery technologies, spanning materials, manufacturing, and recycling.
University of Sheffield
The Electrical Machines and Drives Group has a long track record of research in electrical machines and drives, with research income of >£25m over the last five years. It hosts five industry-funded research centres, including a Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre (UTC) in Advanced Electrical Machines, the Sheffield-Siemens Wind Power Research Centre (S2WP) and Romax Technology Centre.
University of Strathclyde
The University of Sheffield’s Digital Manufacturing Group (DMG), advances data-driven, “zero-setup/ zero-measurement” manufacturing via digitalisation, instrumentation, in-process monitoring, real-time simulation, and digital twins for skill-intensive processes (e.g., wings, engine assembly). Based in MAC, DMG collaborates with industry across a number of UKRI-funded projects. The Scottish Institute for Remanufacturing advances Scotland’s Circular Economy, while the CPM Centre pioneered a six-axis hybrid micromachine and a digital-twin smart micromanufacturing system.
University of Brighton
The Advanced Engineering Centre at the University of Brighton works to develop truly sustainable solutions in transport, energy and manufacturing with practical wisdom at the heart of our approach. University of Brighton is setting up a regional Catalyst for Remanufacturing in the South East (CARE), which has already become a delivering partner for Brighton & Hove City Council’s 2030’s circular economy action plan.
MTC
The Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) is a Research Technology Organisation and part of the Catapult Network. The MTC’s mission is to generate rapid and sustainable industrial growth in the UK by delivering integrated manufacturing system solutions for customers, large and small, across sectors as diverse as Energy and Utilities, Defence and Security, Future Mobility, and the Built Environment.
Loughborough University
Loughborough University is renowned for impactful research that strengthens industry, shapes policy, and improves lives. The Centre for Sustainable Manufacturing and Recycling Technologies (SMART), founded in 2004, develops strategies, methods, and technologies for sustainable product design, production, use, and disposal, supporting businesses in reducing waste and helping protect the planet’s future.
University of Leeds
The University of Leeds is a large, research-intensive public university founded in 1904, and is a member of the Russell Group. It is known for high-quality teaching and research, with over 39,800 students from around the world. The Institute for Design, Robotics and Manufacturing and Real Robotics have long-standing expertise in community engagement, bringing stakeholders into the research process and ensuring maximum impact.
University of Durham
Durham University Engineering is a Russell Group department ranked among the UK’s top engineering schools, offering research-led education and strong industry engagement. Its £4.3 million facility investment supports advanced labs including wind tunnels, clean rooms, and geotechnical testing. Research is organised via eight technical nodes and three challenge areas such as Future Energy Systems and Sustainable Infrastructure.