The University of Manchester and United Utilities have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance research and innovation in the water sector.
Building on existing collaboration, the partnership aims to address both immediate and longer-term challenges across the water industry, including climate resilience, water quality, wastewater management and resource optimisation.
The partnership comes at an important time for the sector, as it undergoes rapid transformation in response to climate change, population growth, and an evolving policy and regulatory environment. The University will support this challenge by providing research-driven solutions that support water quantity and quality for communities and the environment.
Under the MoU, the University and United Utilities will expand engagement across strategic innovation priorities, aligning academic expertise with company needs and opportunities, to deliver tangible, real-world impact.
On a visit to the University, the group toured the robotics lab based in the University’s flagship engineering building, observing some of the cutting-edge robotics equipment that is being developed for real-world applications.
Recent collaborative projects between the two organisations include the use of robotics for water network inspection, and a digital twin for the GMCA Integrated Water Management Plan.
Sarah Sharples, Vice President and Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering, said: “This partnership marks an important step in uniting academic excellence with industry expertise to address the evolving challenges of the water sector. Together, we aim to drive innovation opportunities that benefit students, research, and society.”
Dr Louise Bates, Director of Business Engagement and Knowledge Exchange at The University of Manchester, said: “Collaboration between The University of Manchester and United Utilities dates back to 2006, and in recent years it has really grown through joint research and student-focused activities. This has created a strong foundation for us to build on through this new Memorandum of Understanding.”
Jo Harrison, Executive Director of Strategic Planning and Sustainability at United Utilities, said: “We are passionate about securing resilient services for the North West, both now and for the future.
“This partnership builds on a strong foundation of collaboration and gives us an exciting opportunity to bring together world-class academic insight with practical, real-world experience. By combining our strengths, we can make a meaningful and lasting difference on the ground, helping to deliver a stronger, greener and healthier North West for generations to come.”