Boffins at Bradford University are set to demonstrate how their research work and knowledge could help boost manufacturers.

Companies have been invited to an event next month being staged as part of Bradford’s Year of Manufacturing.

They will hear from experts at the University’s polymer engineering laboratories about how they are helping businesses around the world to develop their products and gain an advantage over competitors.

University experts will give talks on polymer processing and provide a behind-the-scenes tour of the department.

Recent projects at the university’s Interdisciplinary Research Centre (IRC) have included the development of a dental device which went on to win a Medical Device Excellence Award and the recycling of polymers for food packaging.

Professor Phil Coates, director of the Polymer Engineering IRC, said: “This is a world that is very hi-tech and if companies aren’t moving forwards they are going backwards – innovation is key.

“And where do you find the latest ideas and thinking? At universities.

“If companies want to be one step ahead of the competition they can work with us. A lot of companies in this area don’t have the people or equipment to do their own research and development and this is where we come in.”

The event on Thursday, July 5, is part of the year-long campaign to raise the profile of Bradford’s manufacturing sector and improve awareness of growth opportunities.

The campaign is led by Bradford Council, Bradford Chamber of Commerce, the University of Bradford, Bradford and Airedale Manufacturing Alliance and the Saltaire-based Advanced Digital Institute.

Campaign leaders are hoping it will result in the launch of a Centre of Manufacturing Excellence next year. Bradford Council leader Coun David Green said: “Manufacturers will learn more about the depth of knowledge found in Bradford and discover practical ways it could help their business.

“This isn’t just an academic unit – it is something that can have real, practical uses, and give the district’s manufacturers a competitive edge.

“Plus, it’s not just a one way-street. Making the connections and networks with local companies stronger will help the university, which as a major employer is constantly looking for new research opportunities.”

Bradford Chamber of Commerce president Stephen Wright said: “Our local manufacturing industry remains key to both the local and national economic recovery. We will continue in our efforts to provide a series of events and activities that offer real value.”

To register call Dr Paul Reay on (01274) 233744 or e-mail p.reay@bradford.ac.uk.