About

The fourth industrial revolution is characterised by the increasing digitisation and interconnection of product value chains and business models.

Industry 4.0 is having a major impact on companies, investors and customers. Through the application of digital tools and technologies to manufacturing processes and supply chains, Industry 4.0 enables the physical and digital worlds to be merged and can bring significant enhancements to performance and productivity.

It is also opening new and challenging opportunities with its focus on new customer-centric grids. Customers will have a key role in value creation, zero-defect, low-emission production systems and nature-inspired manufacturing that will allow us to design and operate more sustainable industrial ecosystems.

Manchester is at the forefront of this industrial revolution in the UK and internationally. A cradle of the first industrial revolution, the city and region have a DNA that is characterised by innovative spirit, entrepreneurship and risk-taking.

With our world-class research excellence across the spectrum of Industry 4.0 enabling technologies and societal drivers and impact, The University of Manchester will lead the city’s Industry 4.0 innovation.

Our Aims

• Create a world-leading, self-sustaining network for Industry 4.0 solutions in engineering, health and social sciences.
• Forge and strengthen cross-sectorial links with industry and governmental entities.
• Generate opportunities for investment growth through leveraged income and industrial partnerships.
• Ensure the next generation of graduates and inter-disciplinary researchers are Industry 4.0-ready.

Industry 4.0 @ UoM Vision & Capabilities

The University of Manchester has launched its vision of the fourth industrial revolution, drawing on the network of more than 1,000 researchers to bring together colleagues who are at the forefront of Industry 4.0. It outlines the framework through which we propose to deliver a sustainable, joined-up strategy that capitalises on upcoming opportunities nationally, regionally and globally.

You can download the Vision and Capabilities document.