“Where understanding and creativity begin…”
13 Oct 2026
Our Research Platforms catalyse ideas, networks, funders and partnerships – helping us all to work together to deliver Manchester 2035.
By 2035, we will be known for accelerating outstanding research and impact; recognised as the university that turns great research into public good by integrating research, innovation and civic partnership – faster, bolder and at greater scale.
A university where great ideas thrive and careers flourish; that connects researchers, students and partners to address the world’s biggest challenges, discover bold solutions and influence policy, industry and community action; one University, organised for success.
Our Research Delivery Plan sets out seven priorities to achieve this, including transforming our Research Platforms – our spaces for connection, curiosity and shared learning.
The Research Platforms – Creative Manchester, Digital Futures, Healthier Futures, and Sustainable Futures – provide leadership and resources which connect, drive and amplify interdisciplinary collaborations.
They bring together people, ideas, and infrastructure to tackle the world’s most pressing problems. Beyond campus, they work with industry, civic and cultural institutions, policymakers and the public to ensure research is driven, designed and produced with partnership, to address complex challenges, accelerate innovation, and create lasting impact.
“The answers to the questions shaping our future do not sit in one place,” explains Vice-President for Research, Professor Colette Fagan. “They cross disciplines and perspectives, and they require team collaboration and partnerships.”
“Our differences can feel like barriers, but they’re also where understanding and creativity begin,” adds Associate Vice-President (Culture), Professor John McAuliffe.
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Featured contributors
Colette Fagan, Vice-President for Research, Professor of Sociology; John McAuliffe, Associate Vice-President (Culture) Professor of Modern Literature & Creative Writing; Mags Bradbury, Head of Social Responsibility and Civic Engagement; Cecilia Wong , Co-Director Policy@Manchester, Professor of Spatial Planning; Jennifer O'Brien , Academic Lead for Environmental Sustainability, Professor of Geography; Omolade Allen, Senior Lecturer in Global Health Research; Thomas Flavel , Lecturer in Digital Media & Culture, Cathie Marsh Institute; Jack Benton, Wellcome Trust Fellow, Geography; Sarah Sutcliffe , Environmental Social Research Associate, The Global Development Institute; Jorge Ortiz-Moreno, Bicentenary Fellow, Architecture; Alessandro Grillo , Leverhulme Early Career Fellow, Chemistry; Mateusz Ziembla , Research Associate (Catalyse), Manchester Institute of Innovation Research; Andrew Sims, Platforms Administrator, MA History.