Afzal Khan, Member of Parliament for Manchester Gorton, recently paid a visit to The University of Manchester’s impressive engineering facility, which focuses on the development of graphene applications. This multi-million-pound Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC) is dedicated to helping companies advance and launch new technologies, products, and processes that make use of graphene and other 2D materials.
During his tour, Mr Khan was guided by Professor James Baker, the CEO of Graphene@Manchester, and had the opportunity to meet with application managers and technical specialists who showcased tangible samples and state-of-the-art equipment that bring products and applications to life.
Additionally, Mr Khan held informal discussions with Professor John Holden, the University’s Associate Vice President for Special Projects, and Professor Richard Curry, the Vice Dean of Research and Innovation.
So far, the GEIC has successfully completed over 350 projects for more than 200 companies and has supported the establishment of more than 50 spin outs.
Professor James Baker, CEO of Graphene@Manchester, expressed pride in the University’s association with graphene, stating that it is where the groundbreaking material was first isolated by their researchers in 2004. He also highlighted the unique offering of the GEIC, with its dedicated translation centre that helps small and medium-sized enterprises bridge the gap between laboratory research and market implementation, a feature not found elsewhere in UK academia.
Mr Khan also shared his admiration for the GEIC, commending its impressive track record in delivering new projects. He praised the facility’s experienced applications engineers and renowned academics, who work across a wide range of innovative technologies and applications.
In conclusion, Mr Khan expressed his gratitude to the University’s policy engagement unit, Policy@Manchester, for arranging the informative visit and expressed his eagerness to return soon.
