The University of Manchester has signed a new university-wide strategic partnership with the University of Texas at Austin.
The partnership paves the way for collaborative research and teaching initiatives between two world-leading universities. Both universities recognise the importance of global engagement and the shared research expertise across the disciplines including engineering, nanotechnologies, cancer research, digital humanities, social sciences and creative industries.
The partnership builds upon joint research projects already in progress, with a view to expanding and fostering new initiatives.
The signing took place at a 'Meet the Mayors' event at the University of Texas LBJ School of Public Affairs in Austin, Texas, attended by Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham. Mr Burnham signed the Austin-Manchester 'Sister Cities' Memorandum of Understanding with the Mayor of Austin on 7 March, officially forging a friendship between the two cities.
Professor Angelia Wilson, Faculty of Humanities Associate Dean for International, led the delegation from The University of Manchester which included senior academics and leads for business engagement. The delegation joined other colleagues from The University of Manchester at the South by Southwest Expo 2025 where the University hosted two panels on: 'Second Cities: Culture Beyond the Capital' and 'Art Not Evidence: Free Expression on Trial'.
Professor Stephen Flint, Associate Vice-President International, said: "I am delighted we have signed this strategic partnership with the University of Texas at Austin, a powerful and innovative university in a creative city that draws parallels to The University of Manchester and the powerhouse city we call home.
"This new relationship with the University of Texas at Austin will make an impact across all of our faculties. We look forward to driving forward collaborative research and enhanced opportunities for two-way student and staff mobility, as we work together to tackle key global challenges."
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: "The new partnership between The University of Manchester and the University of Texas is really exciting and a valuable outcome from Greater Manchester's visit to Texas.
"Both institutions are powerhouses of innovative research, and contribute a great deal to their regional economies - through commercialising start-ups and spin-outs and wider business support. Combining their expertise can only lead to significant economic and educational benefits for both places."
Sonia Feigenbaum, Senior Vice Provost for Global Engagement and Chief International Officer at The University of Texas at Austin said: "The University of Texas at Austin is proud to formalize this partnership with The University of Manchester, a renowned institution in a city that mirrors Austin's creative energy and spirit of innovation. By bringing together our expertise across disciplines, this collaboration will spark groundbreaking research and new opportunities for students and faculty on both sides of the Atlantic."
