About
Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) is one of the largest universities in the UK, with a strong international reputation for research, innovation, and societal impact. With roots dating back to 1824, MMU is ranked among the top 200 young universities worldwide and is committed to addressing global challenges through interdisciplinary research and strategic partnerships. In the UK’s latest Research Excellence Framework (REF2021), 90% of its research impact was recognized as either 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent', reflecting MMU’s strong research environment and impact agenda.
Within the Faculty of Science and Engineering, the AI, Digital and Cyber-Physical Systems research theme (https://www.mmu.ac.uk/about-us/faculties/science-engineering/research/themes/ai-digital-cyber-physical-systems)) brings together a multidisciplinary team of researchers working at the cutting edge of intelligent systems to deliver sustainable and ethical technological solutions for real-world challenges.
Key research areas include:
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
• Cybersecurity and Blockchain
• Natural Language Processing and Computer Vision
• Robotics and Autonomous Systems
• Neuromorphic Computing and Smart Infrastructure
• Internet of Things (IoT), Digital Twins, and Edge Computing
• Serious Games, Gamification, and Human-Centred Computing
The theme spans multiple sectors — including healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, energy, transport, smart cities, education, and creative industries — with research aligned to European strategic priorities such as the Green Deal, AI for Good, Next Generation Internet, and Digital Europe. The theme addresses key Horizon Europe pillars — including digital transformation, climate action, health, and inclusive society — by developing responsible, human-centred and sustainable solutions.
Manchester Met University is an experienced Horizon 2020 participant and continues to be an active partner in Horizon Europe. The University’s dedicated research and innovation support teams provide strong administrative and strategic capacity to support international collaboration and project delivery.
Innovative governance, environmental observations and digital solutions in support of the Green Deal
1 Improving analytical capacity and understanding of the bargaining power and interactions of farmers with the operators of the value chains9 Delivering Earth Intelligence to accelerate the green and digital transition11 Enhancing sustainability and resilience of agriculture, forestry and rural development through digital twins
Fair, healthy and environment-friendly food systems from primary production to consumption
2 Additional activities for the European partnership on animal health and welfare5 Developing innovative phytosanitary measures for plant health - focus on systems approach for pest risk management8 Exploring the potential of controlled environment agriculture (CEA)16 Developing a joint AU-EU Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation System (AKIS) supporting the Food and Nutrition Security and Sustainable Agriculture (FNSSA) partnership
Biodiversity and ecosystem services
4 Large-scale in situ biodiversity observations for better understanding of biodiversity state, drivers of its decline and impacts of policies
Clean environment and zero pollution
6 Provide digital solutions tailored to small and medium-sized farms to monitor and sustainably manage agricultural inputs and natural resources
Land, ocean and water for climate action
3 Understanding and managing medium and longer-term challenges and opportunities for agriculture stemming from shifting climatic zones and changing agroecological environments4 Monitoring, reporting, verification and mitigation of non-CO2 greenhouse gas emissions and related air pollutants from agriculture