Support Network
A collection of organisations and services, locally and nationally, that can support translational research. Network items that include the University of Manchester logo are primarily accessible by members of the University. When logged in with a University of Manchester or guest user account, additional contact details will be available.
Research Facilities
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Bioimaging Facility
Providing access to cutting-edge light microscopy and AFM with advice on protocol development, system training, image acquisition and data analysis.
How do you support researchers in Manchester?
The Bioimaging Facility currently houses a range of high end imaging systems including confocals (point scanning and spinning disc), in vivo multiphoton, gSTED super-resolution, deconvolution and long term timelapse microscopes as well as a number of atomic force microscopes (AFMs).
The microscopes are capable of imaging samples ranging from whole animals down to individual molecules. Samples can be fixed or live with multiple fluorescent labels and software is available to model and quantify expression patterns in the data sets. A slidescanning service is also available - up to 250 histological or fluorescently labelled slides can be digitised in a single run.
Atomic force microscopy provides 3D surface data with subnanometre resolution in the Z axis in both dry and fluid conditions. Examples include cryo-sections from biopsies, dental surfaces, biomaterials, cultured cells/tissues, and extracted proteins. AFM can also extract nanomechanical information from a sample as well as probe electrochemical parameters (eg. surface potential).
At what stage in their research project should a researcher approach you for support?
Potential users are encouraged to contact the Facility at the beginning of their project to discuss their requirements including sample preparation, scope of the experiment and costing implications.
Please note that the Facility does not run any of the microscopes as a service, rather users are given full system training and 6 full time Facility staff are available throughout the project for advice on experimental design, sample preparation, image acquisition and support with image processing and data analysis
General contact details
Website: https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/research/facilities/bioimaging/
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Biological Mass Spectrometry Facility (BioMS)
Rapid, flexible and comprehensive proteomics, metabolomics and bioanalytical support (mass spec and ELISA) including experimental design, sample preparation and informatics
How do you support researchers in Manchester?
BioMS provides mass spectrometry support for biological and biomedical researchers. We can provide support on experimental design and how our technologies can support your research with experts available on areas such as sample preparation, instrumental analysis and informatics. The facility has a wide range of equipment and methodologies available for sample preparation from sample disruption through to clean up. We have a highly complementary set of mass spectrometers plus an analytical ELISA system for screening. The facility also has its own informatics suite providing both computing workstations and specialist commercial software applications to enable up to date and easy to access data analysis pipelines. We provide service level support for common applications, post-doc level customised support for specialist applications and straight forward and rapid sample analysis for experienced groups who process their own samples. We have a wide customer base and facilitate connections between users with meetings and direct introductions.
At what stage in their research project should a researcher approach you for support?
You can contact the facility at any stage in your project but the earlier in the process you contact us the more chance we have of helping you to design and cost your experiments and thereby increase your chance of success. We particularly encourage obtaining preliminary datasets and have extensive experience in supporting PhD projects to do so.
General contact details
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Biomolecular Analysis Core Facility (Biomols)
Biomols is a technical resource which aims to help the development of molecular biophysics projects within the University of Manchester
How do you support researchers in Manchester?
The Biomolecular analysis is a state-of-the-art resource with a primary focus on protein characterization and protein-ligand interaction analysis using molecular biophysics; in addition the core facility undertakes method development and supports grant applications and publications within the University of Manchester. The facility currently has three dedicated staff members who provide in-depth support throughout scientific projects and help drive forward cutting-edge research using the highly technical instrumentation that is available. This includes methodologies such as surface plasmon resonance and biolayer interferometry with the newest Biacore T200 and Forte-Bio Red-96. We also have nano-biotechnology instrumentation such as QCM-D and N-Lab interferometry with spin-coaters for customizable surfaces. The facility also houses several instruments for the analysis of macromolecular hydrodynamics such as analytical ultracentrifugation and light scattering techniques. The facility works with many projects/groups as well as external companies working on biotherapeutics such as fragment screens, nanobodies and bio-similars.
General contact details
Website: https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/research/platforms/biomolecular-analysis/
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Biomolecular Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) Facility
Study of radical/metal-containing biomolecules such as cofactors, metallo-proteins and radical enzymes EPR interfaced to MiniLite Laser (355 and 532 nm) for timeresolved EPR (photo-induced catalytic reactions; enzymes and inorganic mimics) Characterization of reactive oxygenic/nitrogenic species (ROS/ RNS) using spin-trap/spin-probe
How do you support researchers?
The Biomolecular EPR facility housed in Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB) supports researchers from MIB, University of Manchester and visitors/collaborators from outside The University of Manchester to conduct EPR experiments and analysis, typically on biological samples. In principle, this technique could be used for any materials, which is EPR active (contains unpaired electron). In consultation with the principal investigator and the researcher, the facility helps to design the suitable experiments to answer the unresolved problems in their research of interest. For long-term projects, the facility provides training, including hands-on training on the spectrometer and on appropriate analysis tools for Ph. D., and PDRA. It also supports the researchers in submitting research articles and grant applications. Currently, the MIB EPR facility has resources to perform cw-EPR, time-resolved EPR, and pulsed-EPR including distance measurements between spinlabelled centres and metalloenzymes.
At what stage in their research project should a researcher approach you for support?
It is recommended to approach the facility manager to discuss the proposed research works before submitting the grant application or requesting funding. This is necessary, because the costs associated with certain experiments (cw-EPR; £250- 300/day) are high compared to pulsed-EPR (£300/5 days – round the clock). This allows the PI to provide accurate costing structure when submitting the grant application. Having said this, the researcher could approach the facility manager, whenever they need support from the facility either at the start/ middle/end of a project. As the facility is interested in collaboration, it will support the researcher in all possible ways to secure the funding.
General contact details
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Biostatistics Collaboration Unit
Providing statistical input for part-time and short-term posts for which it would otherwise prove difficult to find high quality applicants.
How do you support researchers in Manchester?
Most quantitative research can be enhanced by inclusion of statistical reasoning in the design and interpretation of studies. It is a common requirement of clinical research funding that a statistician is included in the multidisciplinary team. Investigators can apply for part-time and short-term statistical posts from the BCU for which it would otherwise prove difficult to find high quality applicants. A senior academic from the Centre for Biostatistics can advise on the appropriate statistical input required for each project and identify a suitable RA or RF to undertake the work if funded.
At what stage in their research project should a researcher approach you for support?
Preferably before funding is sought, so that statistical time can be costed into the project from the outset. Where we have spare capacity, we will also try to respond positively to more urgent requests for statistical input.
General contact details
Website: http://research.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/biostatistics/collaborationunit/
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Centre for Health Informatics
Supporting research by providing world-leading expertise in digital and data driven technologies for health, including app development, advanced data analysis and secure data environments.
How do you support researchers in Manchester?
The Centre for Health Informatics is multi-disciplinary by design and encourages diversity and collaboration to enhance research outputs. We use a team science model, supporting reward and recognition of input and impact across researchers, technical and professional staff. Capacity building, education and training are deeply embedded in our approach, with pastoral and skill development highly supported through seminars series, journal clubs, topic-based networks and access to leaders in their fields. We also recognise the importance of demonstrating impact, and encourage and support external communications and publicity through multi-media platforms.
At what stage in their research project should a researcher approach you for support?
As early as possible! We are always very interested to hear from potential new collaborators – our health informatics group is, by design trans/multi/inter-disciplinary (incl. clinicians; GP, statisticians, computer scientists, software engineers, information managers…) and is keen to explore opportunities.
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Electron Microscopy Core Facility
Core research facility that provides both state of the art instrumentation and experienced staff for high quality biological electron microscopy
How do you support researchers?
The facility is actively involved in a wide range of research topics across the Faculty and in the past few years has contributed to significant number of scientific publications in high profile biological journals, including publications where electron microscopy staff members are authors.
The overall aim is to encourage wider use of the facility and to improve the quality and quantity of EM research data, while providing valuable skills and knowledge for future research. Our services are available to all researchers and students within the Faculty, to members of the University of Manchester and, by arrangement, to outside groups.
At what stage in their research project should a researcher approach you for support?
The earliest stage as possible is a must because of the costs and special procedures involved into specimen preparation and data interpretation.
General contact details
Website: https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/research/facilities/electron-microscopy/
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Flow Cytometry Core Facility
We are a technology resource that allows researchers from UoM and external companies access to world leading flow, imaging and mass cytometry equipment, support and consultancy services.
How do you support researchers?
We train and provide UoM researchers the very best flow cytometry equipment and support to ensure they gain the most benefit from these key technologies in areas of immunology, cancer and translational medicine.
At what stage in their research project should a researcher approach you for support?
We suggest researchers should contact us early in their projects to ensure they gain the most from the facility and are able to benefit from the variety of services we provide and potential applications the technology has to offer.
General contact details
Website: http://tinyurl.com/coreflowlab
Website: https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/research/platforms/flow-cytometry/
Twitter/X: @ghowell2812 @ManchesterCytof
Email: coreflowlab@manchester.ac.uk
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Genome Editing Unit
Generates genetically modified experimental systems for basic and pre-clinical research, ranging from cultured cells to transgenic mice.
How do you support researchers?
The Genome Editing unit supports a range of research activities at the University of Manchester and beyond. We generate genetically modified experimental systems for basic and pre-clinical research, ranging from cultured cells to transgenic mice. Collectively we have years of molecular biology expertise, and can advise on the most appropriate methodologies. In particular we are adept at applying cutting edge CRISPR-Cas9 approaches to directly and precisely change genetic sequences in cells or mice.
We offer a modular service, allowing you to work with us for different aspects of the process, according to your budget and knowhow.
We have an R&D remit, and can collaborate to develop novel applications of these technologies according to your research and translational needs.
We also support grant applications by lending technical expertise, designing strategies and workflows and providing costs.
At what stage in their research project should a researcher approach you for support?
Researchers can seek advice and guidance at any stage. We can offer support at all stages of a research project or translational pipeline, from assisting with grant proposals and costings, helping to design initial assays and build experimental models, to performing functional validation and end point assays. Researchers are encouraged to get in touch at any point to discuss where we can support your projects.
General contact details
Email: genome.editing@manchester.ac.uk
Website: https://sites.manchester.ac.uk/genome-editing-unit/
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Imaging Facilities
Clinical and preclinical imaging for a wide range of disease areas
How do you support researchers?
We provide clinical and preclinical imaging for a wide range of disease areas, using PET (preclinical only), MR (preclinical and clinical) and PET-MR (clinical only).
Clinically, we have one of only eight PET-MR scanners in the UK which is located at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, 2 MR scanners (located at the Manchester Clinical Research Facility and Wolfson Molecular Imaging Centre (WMIC)) and access to a new 3T MR scanner at Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust.
For preclinical imaging, at WMIC we have a PET-CT camera, a benchtop 3T MR scanner, bioluminescence imaging capability and a Small Animal Radiation Research Platform (SARRP); at the Stopford Building, we have a 7T MR scanner.
At what stage in their research project should a researcher approach you for support?
Researchers are advised to contact us when a study is being developed, to ensure we can provide methodology and costing support. We also take applications for studies and Clinical Trials to use our scanners.
General contact details
Website: https://sites.manchester.ac.uk/imaging-facilities/denise.ogden@manchester.ac.uk
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Manchester Biomolecular NMR Facility
Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy instrumentation for structural biology, metabolomics and drug discovery
How do you support researchers?
The Manchester Biomolecular NMR Facility supports a wide range of academics from throughout the North of England, as well as a number of biotech companies. Nuclear magnetic resonance is an atomic resolution spectroscopy. Every chemical compound has an NMR spectrum that is a fingerprint, defined by its covalent structure and conformation. This applies to biological macromolecules as well as to small molecules. On this basis, it can be used for the analysis of complex mixtures (e.g. in metabolomics or biotransformations), detection of lead compound binding to target proteins and fragment-based screening (in drug discovery), biomolecular QC and binding site mapping on proteins. In addition, the effects of conditions and small molecules on protein structure and dynamics can be studied. Protein NMR has been used in the facility for denovo structure determination, measuring dynamics in enzyme catalysis and investigating the effects of excipients on protein aggregation in biopharmaceuticals.
At what stage in their research project should a researcher approach you for support?
NMR can provide useful information at many stages in a project, once a target system has been identified. Preliminary data can be collected prior to funding applications. For protein-specific applications, construct design and assay conditions are critical, and the Facility Manager should be consulted for advice. Users can be trained to use the instruments themselves, or the experiments can be run as a service.
General contact details
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Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine
Supporting genetic and genomic research, from the discovery of genes that result in rare disorders to the application of polygenic risks that are relevant to more common disorders.
How do you support researchers in Manchester?
Research in Genomic Medicine encompasses many areas from the discovery of genes that result in rare disorders to the application of polygenic risks that are relevant to more common disorders including breast cancer. Our team are happy to discuss any project that involves genomics and clinical care including pharmacogenetics, biomarker discover, technical issues regarding genomic testing, clinical trials of personalised medicines and diagnostics.
At what stage in their research project should a researcher approach you for support?
The earlier the better will facilitate discussion as to how our team can help or signpost an investigator to the relevant support.
General contact details
Website: https://www.mangen.co.uk/
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Manchester Protein Structure Facility (MPSF)
The MPSF provides a complete structural biology service, taking you from purified protein to crystal structure.
How do you support researchers?
The MPSF supports a wide range of academics from across the University and beyond. High resolution X-ray crystal structures provide a unique insight into structure function that can help to rationalise solution studies. Detailed active site information can prove pivotal in structure-based drug design pathways accelerating progression from lead compound to drug.
The MPSF benefits from state-of-the-art liquid handling robotics coupled with regular access to Diamond Light Source. The facility operates a complete structure determination pipeline so academics can focus on their research whilst still benefitting from the insights an X-ray crystal structure can provide.
At what stage in their research project should a researcher approach you for support?
Researchers should contact the MPSF as soon as possible in their workflow to maximise the prospect of a successful outcome. Early engagement will ensure appropriate choices are made to facilitate subsequent X-ray crystal structure determination.
General contact details
Website: http://www.mib.ac.uk/research/facilities/proteinstructure/
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MIB Mass Spectrometry facility
Accurate mass service samples
How do you support researchers?
I provide and assist researchers with any mass spectrometry needs: from identifying possible methods through to analysis and data interpretation. I have access to a wide range of instrumentation and technologies including high throughput UPLC, Ion-mobilityspectrometry, and intact protein analysis. We have a wealth of mass spectrometry based methods and instruments to study a range of biological systems, ranging from small molecules to large protein complexes.
We use mass spec for a wide range of applications:
- Native protein analyses
- Whole protein mass & post-translational modifications
- Metabolomics
- Small molecule identification
- Confirm and analyse purity of sample mixtures
- Unknown sample identification
- Quantification
The following mass spec instrument types are available:
- Ion-mobility, LCMS or flow injection QTOF
- Nano Electrospray Ionisation
- MALDI
Chromatography / Analytical Facility
We have a range of analytical instruments available to separate and analyse biological and chemical compounds for qualitative and quantitative purposes. We provide the following equipment for the analysis and preparation of small molecules:
- Range of HPLC instruments with different capabilities, both analytical and preparative
- Chiral HPLC screening service
- Walk-up FTIR for analysis of small molecules
- Liquid chromatography mass spec
- Gas chromatography mass spec including automated head space and liquid analysis
At what stage in their research project should a researcher approach you for support?
As with all analytical techniques, it is best if researchers take into account sample requirements during the initial planning stages of a project, specifically with regard to sample preparation and compatibility, however unexpected requirements always appear and so I always welcome queries at any stage of a project.
General contact details
Website: https://www.mib.manchester.ac.uk/research/facilities/
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Protein Expression
A fully comprehensive resource for the optimisation and expression of recombinant proteins using a wide range of host cell platforms.
How do you support researchers?
- Cloning and protein expression pipeline.
- Four expression platforms: E.Coli, Pichia, Insect cells (Sf9 and High 5 cells) and mammalian (suspension HEK293 and CHO cells).
- High purity purification for structural studies (NMR & X-Ray crystallography).
- Extensive troubleshooting experience (wide range of affinity/ solubility tags, expression hosts, chaperones, co-expression, soluble vs re-folding strategies).
- Protein complex formation using the Insect cell MultiBac system.
- Mammalian–like glycosylation using insect cells (Sweet Bac).
- Particular expertise in the expression/secretion of ECM proteins, glycoproteins and HTS enzymes for academia (CRUK) and Biotech.
- Insect cell Virus Like Particle (VLP) production.
- Multi promoter vectors for expression across a range of host cells.
- Automated AKTA purification systems
At what stage in their research project should a researcher approach you for support?
We are available at all stages of a project and are highly experienced in troubleshooting protein expression issues that may snag a project and delay publications/grant submissions. Ideally however we can make a more significant impact by being approached early at the grant application stage. Construct design and the choice of expression system to ensure correct folding and post translational modifications (PTMs) are critical to the success of a project.
General contact details
Website: http://www.mib.ac.uk/research/facilities/proteinexpression/
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Research IT
Helping you achieve your research outcomes.
How do you support researchers in Manchester?
Research IT offers a wide range of services to researchers and postgraduate research students at the University. Our services are briefly summarised here and are listed in full on our website.
- Research Software Engineering: We collaborate with researchers to create correct, efficient, readable, reliable and sustainable code.
- Application Support: Provide help with installing, licensing, building, or running of research applications.
- Mobile Development Service: Design, development, deployment and maintenance of mobile apps across the University.
- Research IT Training: Regular on campus or online training courses for staff and postgraduates.
- Web Application Development Service: A full-stack and complete lifecycle option for research focussed websites with bespoke requirements.
- The Computational Share Facility: Provides a batch-based and limited interactive on-campus platform with a large range of software to enable computationally-intensive work.
- Research Data Storage: Centrally hosted, resilient, backed-up, data storage for research staff and PGR students.
- Edge Compute and Satellite Storage: Provides the research community with capabilities for computationally/data intensive work where the use of centrally hosted platforms is impractical.
- Highly Restricted Data Service: Coming in 2023. HRDS will support researchers working with commercially sensitive, restricted and/or highly restricted data by keeping their data safe in particular when it is subject to contractual or regulatory requirements.
- Research Virtual Machines Service: Provides resilient Linux and Windows Virtual Machines to research groups.
At what stage in their research project should a researcher approach you for support?
As soon as you have your research idea! We strongly encourage researchers to talk to us about their research plans as we may be able to contribute in ways that haven’t yet been explored. Many of our services are costed so everyone needs to ensure that the right services and the right level of support have been included and costed for. Some training courses, application support, short advice, consultancy, and some basic infrastructure services are free. Please contact the relevant team in Research IT for more information. More details are on our website.
General contact details
Website: https://research-it.manchester.ac.uk
Twitter/X: @uom_eresearch
Bluesky: @uomresearchit.bsky.socialInternal contact details (UoM)🔒 This content can only be viewed by authorised users. University of Manchester staff can log in with their IT account username. If you are not a member of staff, you can request a guest account. Some content may only be accessible to users with a University of Manchester IT account.