The University of Manchester Innovation Factory has appointed Prof. James Winterburn as Green-tech Expert in Residence, marking the next chapter in a long-standing relationship between academic research, commercialisation and industrial impact.
After 18 years at The University of Manchester, James has transitioned to a full-time role at Holiferm, the university spinout he co-founded in 2018. At Holiferm, he now serves as Research Lead, supporting the company’s continued growth as it scales its pioneering biotechnology for sustainable manufacturing.
Holiferm uses natural fermentation to produce environmentally friendly and economically competitive alternatives to replace petrochemical based ingredients. The company has grown substantially over the past few years, securing an £18.5 million Series B investment in 2024 from Rhapsody Venture Partners and Clean Growth Fund. Holiferm employs over 55 people across the North West and continues to expand its manufacturing capabilities as demand for sustainable ingredients accelerates.
James’ journey from academic research to successful spinout exemplifies the University’s commitment to translating world-class science into real-world impact. During his time at Manchester, he progressed from Lecturer to Professor of Biochemical Engineering, building an internationally recognised research group focused on industrial biotechnology, fermentation processes and sustainable scale-up. He also played a key role in strengthening industry-academia collaboration as Academic Lead of Business Engagement and Innovation in the School of Engineering.
Reflecting on the spinout journey, James said: “After years of seeing research move from the laboratory into real-world application, I am excited to be able to support others at the same stage of their journey. Becoming an Expert in Residence is an opportunity to help academic inventors recognise the potential in their ideas, shape them into viable ventures and navigate the challenges of translation with greater confidence. I am particularly looking forward to mentoring researchers as they take their first steps towards impact beyond the university.”
Alongside his role at Holiferm, Prof. Winterburn will now bring his experience back into the Innovation Factory ecosystem as its Green-tech Expert in Residence, supporting academics and founders who are navigating the path from research to commercial application.
He added: “Maintaining a close relationship with The University of Manchester remains incredibly important to me. The Expert in Residence role allows me to stay connected to the research community while bringing an industry lens to discussions about scale up manufacturing and commercial readiness. I hope this perspective will be useful to researchers who are thinking about how their work can move beyond the lab and into sustainable, real-world deployment.”
Dr Catherine Headley, CEO of the University of Manchester Innovation Factory, welcomed the appointment: “James is a fantastic example of how deep academic expertise, combined with the right commercial support, can lead to globally significant businesses. Holiferm is a real success story and we are delighted that James is joining us as an Expert in Residence, where his insight and experience will be invaluable to the next generation of spinout founders.”
