Overview
This follow-up event builds on the outcomes from the 1st MS4DE external community workshop, which examined industry’s current and future materials requirements, reinforcing Royce’s and the wider research community role in meeting those needs. Within those technological sectors, advanced surface technologies emerged as an influential thematic that can shape the MS4DE’s research programme, enabling targeted collaboration and strengthen alignment with the National Materials Innovation Strategy.
This deep dive will move the discussion into a more focused phase, exploring the strategic importance of surface innovation – across coatings, treatments, and engineered interfaces – within sectors such as aerospace, energy, manufacturing and healthcare and developments in the UK.
This workshop will be delivered in the form of an active debate, chaired by Professor Ping Xiao, Chair of IOM3 Surface Technologies Group and participants will be expected to engage and help curate Royce’s strategy in the Advanced Surface Technology landscape.
Date: 2nd July 2026
Time: 09:45:00 – 14:00:00
Location: Henry Royce Institute, University of Manchester
Audience
This session is intended for professionals working in surface engineering, coatings, and functional materials, including those involved in advanced manufacturing, R&D, and technology translation. It will aim to bring together industry, academia, and innovation stakeholders addressing shared challenges around scale‑up, integration, and adoption across the surface technologies ecosystem. If you are working within the Advanced surface technologies environment, please respond by completing your expression of interest.
About MS4DE
The Materials Systems for Demanding Environments (MS4DE) Research Area explores the interaction between the environment and structural component &/or coating integrity. Investigating degradation mechanisms, materials performance and technology, and cryogenic conditions. The objective being to design and test innovative material solutions that deliver advanced performance and reduce environmental degradation in demanding environments. This innovation is underpinned by mechanistic understanding to support the transition to a net-zero and green economy.
Timescales for the EOI
The deadline for expression of interest is the 05/06/2026. Spaces are limited, so book early!
Contact: Mr Michail Dellepiane, Research and Business Engagement Officer for MS4DE: michail.dellepiane@manchester.ac.uk
July 2 2026
