Issue link: https://htpgraphics.uberflip.com/i/930257
BUILDING THE GRAPHENE & 2-D MATERIALS INNOVATION ECOSYSTEM AT MANCHESTER The University's approach to commercialisation of graphene and other 2D materials has been guided by the concept of the innovation ecosystem. Within any innovation ecosystem there are key institutions that support the earlier stages of technology development. At Manchester, the capital building structure aspect of the ecosystem consists of The National Graphene Institute (engaging in academic-led industry collaboration with companies of all types and sizes) and The Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (facilitating industry-led development with academic participation) and the research power aspect consists of some 250+ academic researchers on campus. Partnering is a key element of UMIP's IP Strategy to enable sector specific expertise to inform how a particular technology is best developed and positioned. The University of Manchester has already built an extensive portfolio of IP rights relating to graphene and 2D material that encompasses applications across an enormous range of technology sectors – reflecting the significance and opportunities for these materials. UMIP continues strategic development of this IP portfolio and is leveraging these IP assets to drive commercialisation activities that include licensing, industrial partnerships, and spin-out businesses. Currently UMIP activities are focused around the development of platform spin-outs for transition metals membranes that provide opportunities in desalination, water remediation and nano-filtration; electrowetting touch-screens; thermoelectric composites and reduced graphene oxide coatings as barrier layer materials.