The University of Manchester and the University of Liverpool are strengthening their ties to promote innovation to benefit the North West region.
This is an initiative backed by the Greater Manchester Mayor, Andy Burnham, and the Liverpool City Region Metro Mayor, Steve Rotheram.
The two universities plan to collaborate on several matters, including,
- Research into developing more sustainable ways to produce medicines and vaccines.
- Preparing for the transition to net zero.
- Developing the industry of quantum mechanics.
- Promoting the creative industries of both cities.
The plans for increased collaboration were unveiled at Liverpool’s St George’s Hall, on November 27 2024.
The University of Liverpool and Manchester are both Russell Group universities and feature among the top-ranked universities in the UK.
Professor Tim Jones, the University of Liverpool’s Vice-Chancellor, spoke of Liverpool and Manchester’s “incredible history of shared innovation” and how both universities have “outstanding strengths in research and teaching”.
The partnership between the two universities would also focus on supporting regional businesses, fostering innovation, and enhancing skills development.
Professor Duncan Ivison, the University of Manchester’s President and Vice-Chancellor, said the partnership will “start by focusing on the high-value industrial clusters that span both city regions, driving the innovation and providing the skills and workforce that those industries need to deliver economic growth”.
Ivison went on to say, “There is a tremendous synergy between our two universities – and our cities – where thousands of our staff and students are dedicated to developing the knowledge and innovation that holds the key to generating genuinely inclusive growth and culturally dynamic cities”.
These plans build on the existing collaboration between the two universities, including their joint efforts to develop a high-speed rail network connecting Liverpool and Manchester.
Both universities will also engage with other universities and colleges across the North West that excel in research and skills aligned with regional growth plans.
