We are delighted to announce an exciting new phase for Translation Manchester, which will now be re-launched as a core function within the Research Development and Innovation (RDI) team in the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health (FBMH). This development marks our renewed commitment to advancing translational research and supporting innovation across the University.
This transition comes at a moment of reflection and celebration, following the successful conclusion of the Welcome Trust Translational Partnership Award (TPA, £3.6m) in July, after six remarkable years supporting translational researchers across the institution. The TPA has catalysed significant achievements, including the generation of over £24m in follow-on funding and the formation of seven spin-out companies, each securing major venture capital seed investments. To honour these milestones and the spirit of collaboration, a celebratory event was held on 18th June in the Nancy Rothwell building, attended by more than 200 delegates from across the translational research community.
Looking forward, Translation Manchester will remain an integral part of RDI, continuing its mission to provide expert support for the preparation of competitive translational research proposals and overseeing the UKRI MRC Impact Accelerator Account which funds the Confidence for Translation funding scheme (currently open for applications). We are proud to introduce a newly established Faculty role, Research Development Manager for Translation and Health Innovation, dedicated to strengthening our translational research portfolio. Dr Alessandro Faroni former Translational Research Manager at Translation Manchester will assume this position, bringing expertise and enthusiasm to the role. Dr Faroni will work closely with the Associate Dean for Translation and Business Engagement, Professor Cath O’Neill, ensuring that Translation Manchester continues to serve as a driving force for innovation and business engagement within the Faculty.
We extend our gratitude to all who have contributed to the successes of the TPA and look forward to building on this strong foundation. Translation Manchester’s continued presence within RDI ensures ongoing support for our research community, fostering impactful discoveries and driving real-world benefits for health and society.
If you are looking for support in preparing your next translational research funding application, get in touch at translation@manchester.ac.uk. A translational funding application clinic service has recently launched in collaboration with the Innovation Factory and the Research Impact Team with some slots still available for the December date; more dates will be announced soon.
For further information or to discuss opportunities within Translation Manchester, please contact Dr Alessandro Faroni or Professor Cath O’Neill.
Visit FBMH RDI SharePoint (internal site only accessible for UoM staff/students) to explore further functions, events, resources, and opportunities within the RDI team.