John Whittaker

Engineering Director, Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre @Graphene - The University Of Manchester

Manchester, GB

Currently, John serves as the Engineering Director for the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC). His responsibilities include overseeing all engineering matters for the centre, with a focus on expansion and project delivery with industry and SMEs. As one of the UK’s leading centres for the commercialisation of 2D materials, the GEIC transforms early-stage research into real-world applications, helping businesses navigate the crucial ‘middle ground’ of technology readiness (TRLs 4–7). With its state-of-the-art infrastructure, industrial partnerships, and translational focus, the GEIC plays a central role in the advanced materials ecosystem. John in his capacity on the CDT advisory board strengthens the pipeline between research and industry - ensuring doctoral students gain not only technical excellence, but the commercial awareness needed to drive innovation from lab to market.As operations director the GEIC, I manage pay and non-pay budgets derived for direct income of c£5m per annum. Ensuring all operation compliance to the university of Manchester and support the broader region on innovation development with partners such as the local authority, UKGov and standard agencies. I lead on international partnerships with MNE and agencies in overseas territories.John has been a member of the Faculty of Science and Engineering Professional Services Leadership Team and a member of the Technical Apprenticeship Board and collaborating with the Health & Safety Executive on Nano-materials safety. John is a strong advocate of risk and compliance management, as evidenced by his NEBOSH certifications.

NEBOSH

General Certificate, Health & Safety Management

The Open University

Bachelor's Degree (BSc), EEE & Mathematics

Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining

Chartered Engineer, Materials Science