The Bridge

Nestled within the historic city of Lincoln, Bridge emerges as a pioneering R&D facility, anchoring its foundations at the University of Lincoln. This venture is fueled by a robust collaboration of R&D project specialists and the university's esteemed academic circles. Our mission is crystal clear: to unlock the doors to the latest advancements in technology and research methodologies. By doing so, we aim to empower businesses with the tools to forge groundbreaking R&D solutions and tackle challenges with innovative problem-solving approaches. Furthermore, our commitment extends to the professional growth of the workforce through comprehensive, accredited training programs.

Bridge is not just a facility; it's a beacon of innovation and collaboration, supported by substantial investments, including £6.2 million from the European Union, the Greater Lincolnshire LEP, and the University of Lincoln itself. This state-of-the-art R&D hub boasts six custom-designed laboratories, each equipped with sophisticated infrastructure and instruments. Additionally, a 40-seat professional development center stands ready to enhance the skills and knowledge of professionals.

Since its doors swung open in October 2022, Bridge has become a nexus for innovation, attracting hundreds of visitors and business collaborations. These partnerships are testament to how engagement with Bridge can serve as a catalyst for innovation within various industries.

What We Offer at Bridge: Our offerings are expansive, encompassing:

• Direct connections to an array of resources, from supply chains to academic expertise, and from peer businesses to cutting-edge facilities.
• A suite of training and development programs designed to elevate workforce capabilities.

Our facilities are tailored to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving industry landscape. They include:

• A Materials Synthesis Laboratory, equipped with walk-in fume hoods for safe and efficient chemical experimentation.
• A suite for Materials Evaluation, dedicated to sample processing with precision.
• State-of-the-art materials testing and analysis services.
• A Category 6 Clean Room, ensuring contaminant-free environments for sensitive research and development activities.
• A Data Processing Environment, equipped to handle the most demanding computational tasks.
• A Professional Development Centre, designed to foster learning and skill advancement.
• An Open Innovation Lounge, encouraging collaboration and ideation among professionals.

Our focus areas in technology are designed to push the boundaries of material science, including:

• Manipulation of materials, surfaces, and interfaces to unlock new applications and efficiencies.
• Design and analysis of formulated materials, exploring the intricacies of ingredient interactions.
• Control over crystallization and material structure ordering for improved material performance.
• Advancements in energy capture and storage through innovative control of material electronic properties.
• Commitment to green processes, exploring new chemistries, waste valorization, and process circularisation to contribute to sustainability.

Bridge stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit of the University of Lincoln, the local community, and the wider manufacturing and R&D sectors. It is a not-for-profit entity that offers an ecosystem where businesses can access unparalleled expertise and facilities for materials innovation.

Engage with Bridge: We invite you to explore the possibilities that Bridge offers. Whether you're looking to pioneer new solutions, solve complex problems, or enhance your team's skills, Bridge is your gateway to the future of innovation. Connect with us on our website or visit us to discover how we can help transform your business through the power of research and development.