This new round of accession for NBIC sees 10 additional universities and institutions join the community, reflecting the increased recognition of the importance of biofilm research and NBIC’s role in uniting expertise from across the academic and industrial landscape.
Biofilm research at Sheffield spans the Faculties of Engineering, Medicine, and Science. Being part of NBIC has helped Sheffield grow its research expertise into biofilms and has funded several Proof of Concept (PoC) grants across the University. These PoC grants aim to support and accelerate the development of new or improved technologies, products, processes, and services arising from research activities.
Dr Esther Karunakaran, lead academic for NBIC at the University of Sheffield, said: “The research Sheffield is conducting as part of NBIC is paving the way for significant advances in how we manage and harness biofilms. Our projects are tackling global challenges: from using natural biofilms in wetlands to treat urban pollution and harnessing microbial technology for sustainable chemical production, to developing 'bio-inspired' antimicrobial surfaces modeled after cicada wings.
We are also tackling water safety by pioneering real-time sensors, probiotic treatments, and even adapting marine-coating technology for use in drinking water pipes. By combining these efforts with innovative removal methods, such as using microbubbles to target biofilm stability, we are providing the tools and insights needed to protect public health and drive industrial sustainability.”
About the NBIC
NBIC was launched in 2017 by its four lead Universities (Edinburgh, Liverpool, Nottingham and Southampton), with funding from Innovate UK and BBSRC. Since 2017, NBIC has grown rapidly into a vibrant partnership of 72 research institutions and more than 300 companies, supported by a strong and expanding international network. Together, these partners form a truly national platform dedicated to advancing biofilm science and ensuring that fundamental research is translated into practical, real-world solutions. The centre’s collaborative model brings together researchers, innovators, and industry leaders to address some of the most pressing challenges biofilms present, impacting $5 trillion per annum in global economic activity - from food and health to ships, clean water and energy.
This continued growth further strengthens NBIC’s position as the UK’s leading hub for biofilm research, policy, training and innovation. By providing a single point of access to world-class expertise, facilities, and funding opportunities, the centre enables organisations to accelerate discovery, reduce barriers to collaboration, and turn cutting-edge research into tangible outcomes. Central to NBIC’s mission is the creation of long-term, sustainable partnerships that connect academic excellence with industrial need, helping to de-risk innovation and drive economic, societal, and environmental impact.
Read the news story about the new partner institutions on the NBIC website.