The University has been shortlisted for three Times Higher Education (THE) Awards, reinforcing our commitment to academic excellence, social responsibility, innovation and community engagement. The nominations span a range of categories, showcasing the University’s strengths in student support, research and widening participation.

Widening participation or outreach initiative of the year

In collaboration with the University of Salford and IntoUniversity, the University of Manchester played a pivotal role in launching a new learning centre aimed at supporting thousands of young people to achieve their academic and career ambitions.

Salford is the 18^th most deprived local authority in England, out of 317, with latest figures suggesting 22% of children are living in poverty and pupils in the area are now 22.9 months of learning behind their peers by the end of their GCSEs.

The centre has exceeded targets since opening, driven by a dedicated team that has supported over 1,500 young people, recruited students to Academic Support, established partnerships with local schools and run programmes through the holidays.

Outstanding support for students

This nomination recognises our collaborative work with the Students’ Union to tackle the cost of living crisis.

Developing an exemplary package of support during 2022/23, with work still ongoing to ensure its development and continuation, over £10m of support reached students through a wide range of interventions across the academic year.

Not only did this work receive national media coverage but was also showcased in several pivotal reports that have directly influenced political discourse in Westminster, addressing systemic issues with student finances; this work continues to positively impact conversations around financial support nationwide.

“We’re thrilled to be nominated for this work alongside the University, delivered in partnership with the 22-23 Student Executive Officer team. Together, we developed a support system that truly empowers students both academically and personally.” – Lexie Baynes, Union Affairs Officer

Research project of the year: STEM

Groundbreaking research that led to the worlds-first bedside genetic test to prevent babies going deaf has also earned a nomination.

The research, led by Saint Mary’s Hospital, part of Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT), The University of Manchester and Manchester-based firm genedrive Plc, helped to develop the pioneering, rapid bedside genetic test which was piloted at MFT in 2022.

The technology could save the hearing of 180 babies in the UK every year and bring a saving of £5m to the NHS annually. The test is now being rolled-out in all Neonatal Intensive Care Units in Greater Manchester, with a hope that this will become part of routine clinical care across the UK.

This project also won a University of Manchester Making a Difference Award in May 2024. Find out more here.