University opens ‘most ambitious development project in its history’

Manchester Metropolitan has officially opened the doors to the Dalton building, which it says is the most ambitious development project in its history.

As the university celebrates its 200th anniversary year, the Dalton building marks the culmination of a decade-worth of investment to transform its campus and deliver excellent education and world-leading research with impact to its home city of Manchester and across the world.

The state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Manchester is home to the Faculty of Science and Engineering and is set to become a global hub for innovation, research and industry collaboration.

At the official opening ceremony, University Chancellor, Lord Mandelson, Vice-Chancellor, Prof Malcolm Press and Faculty Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Prof Mark Sterling celebrated the significance of the building, which will serve as a cornerstone for STEM education and research.

Named in honour of John Dalton, a pioneering scientist whose work laid the foundations for modern chemistry, the building embodies the university’s commitment to pushing boundaries and  solving global challenges.

In his speech Prof Sterling, said: “Our purpose is to deliver impactful research, enhance STEM education, and foster partnerships for positive change. Since 2020, our research funding has more than tripled, highlighting the recognition of our work’s quality and impact globally.

“This achievement supports the university’s plans to transform our students’ lives, advance knowledge, and address significant challenges and tackle the grand challenges of our time.” 

L-R: Prof Malcolm Press, Lord Mandelson, Prof Mark Sterling

The new facility will position the university as a leader in science and technology education. The building, which features cutting-edge laboratories, research hubs, and active learning environments, will provide a vital space for the university’s work across four key research themes: Health, Sport and Active Ageing; Clean Energy and the Natural Environment; Advanced Materials and Manufacturing; and AI, Digital, and Cyber-Physical Systems.  

At the opening ceremony, the university also highlighted the international partnerships which are integral to its mission. A special welcome was extended to representatives from Hubei University, whose Joint Education Institute partnership with Manchester Metropolitan reflects a shared vision of educational excellence and global collaboration.

The opening of the Dalton building also reflects Manchester Metropolitan’s broader goals of inclusivity and societal impact.

Currently, half of the university’s some 8,400 science and engineering students come from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds.

Similarly, half of the students in the Faculty are also first in their family to benefit from a university education.

The commitment to inclusivity also extends to degree apprenticeship programmes, which provide students with practical, on-the-job experience while earning academic qualifications.

Lord Mandelson said: “Together, we will continue to secure award winning grants, pioneer groundbreaking research, and make the world a better place – one discovery, one innovation, one collaboration at a time.”

Prof Malcolm Press said: “I am confident that the Dalton building will be the foundation for many more successes to come. It will be a place where the brightest minds gather, collaborate, and create solutions to some of the most pressing challenges of our time.”