Lancaster University's Centre for Global Eco-Innovation has announced a call for business projects for Science and Technology Masters by Research (MSc) programme, seeking to advance sustainable innovation across all business sectors.

The Centre is currently inviting businesses to propose research projects that develop low-carbon solutions and improve sustainability, with successful proposals being matched with dedicated graduate researchers for 12-month collaborations beginning from October 2025.

Participating organisations will benefit from focused research and development support, backed by Lancaster University's renowned academic expertise and access to over £45 million worth of specialized facilities and laboratories.

Since its inception in 2012, the Centre has already demonstrated significant impact, collaborating with over 700 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the Northwest of England, which have led to the creation of over 314 new jobs, contributed approximately £45 million in gross Gross Value Added to the regional economy, supported the development of over 120 new low-carbon products and services.

"This call for projects addresses barriers many businesses face when pursuing sustainable innovation," explains Dr. Paul McKenna, Business Partnerships Manager at the Centre for Global Eco-Innovation. "Whether it's developing new sustainable products or optimizing existing processes for reduced carbon emissions, our graduate researchers can provide the dedicated expertise companies often need."

The Centre has a great track record of facilitating successful graduate research projects and has supported more than 90 PhD and 50 MRes studentships, alongside numerous student dissertation projects and internships.

For example, one graduate project for a Northwest textile business explored the feasibility of reintroducing flax growing and processing in the UK for sustainable textile production. Laurie Peake, Director of The Super Slow Way, said, “Helena produced a tremendously useful piece of research to help us understand the extent of the loss of skills and infrastructure that would allow us to support local low carbon textile production. We have shown that flax and indigo can be grown in Lancashire and will continue to learn from our experiences.”

Another success story involved a compliance organisation for waste electrical and electronic equipment, collaborated with the Centre to quantify the carbon footprint of their collection and recycling operations.

For a total investment of £28,000, businesses receive comprehensive support including academic supervision, project materials, and researcher stipend. The research can be conducted on campus, at business premises, or a combination of both, depending on project requirements.

Businesses interested in proposing projects are encouraged to register their interest now, with Lancaster University offering assistance in developing research proposals and recruiting suitable graduate researchers.

For more information or to discuss potential project ideas, contact Dr. Paul McKenna at p.mckenna@lancaster.ac.uk.

Lancaster University's Centre for Global Eco-Innovation is a multi-award-winning hub dedicated to supporting businesses in developing sustainable solutions to environmental challenges.

Read more and register your interest today