The University of Manchester is showcasing how meaningful collaboration can turn research into real-world change through its Research impact, shaped together campaign.

One featured story highlights C3 Biotechnologies Ltd, a company born from University research that is working with academic, industry and public-sector partners to transform waste carbon and biomass into more sustainable fuels and chemicals, helping reduce reliance on fossil resources and supporting a fairer, greener economy.

What stands out is how the impact happens. The C3 Biotech story shows that real impact starts with strong relationships and a shared commitment to responsible innovation. Instead of treating commercialisation as a final step, University researchers, industry teams and government partners worked together throughout, shaping ideas through practical problem-solving as they moved from the lab into real production settings, always with environmental benefit and long-term social value in mind.

For C3, the University has been central to that journey. Professor Nigel Scrutton highlights the breadth of expertise, specialist facilities and equipment that universities can offer to help companies move projects forward and test ideas rigorously. As he puts it: “The company works closely with The University of Manchester on a day-to-day basis.” That day-to-day partnership becomes especially important during scale-up, when early assumptions are challenged and progress depends on adapting quickly while ensuring sustainable, responsible growth.

The partnership is now moving into its next phase. Over the coming 12–18 months, the teams plan to commission first-of-a-kind pilot plants, with facilities in Stockport supporting the step from pilot-scale work towards larger production. International support is also helping to reduce the risks of scaling up, through a three-year programme with Germany’s federal innovation agency – accelerating low-carbon technologies that can benefit society more widely.

• Read the full case study and watch the accompanying film.