The Tyne Bridge in Newcastle upon Tyne (illustrative photo)

The network

One facility, five universities

GNN is based in the heart of Newcastle, with spokes across Durham, Northumbria, Sunderland and Teesside universities, bringing together the complementary strengths of the region’s universities.

Hub and spokes

Hub and spokes diagram of the Great Northeast Nanofab network Newcastle University is the hub. Spokes connect it to Northumbria University, the University of Sunderland, Durham University and Teesside University. A stylised North East coastline and the rivers Tyne, Wear and Tees are shown. Not to scale. River Tyne River Wear River Tees NORTHSEA GNN Newcastle Northumbria Sunderland Durham Teesside Stylised diagram, not to scale
Hub

Newcastle University

Leading the facility, based in the heart of Newcastle.

Spoke

Durham University

Advanced characterisation and materials deposition.

Spoke

Northumbria University

Complementary expertise in microfabrication.

Spoke

University of Sunderland

Part of the region’s research and innovation network.

Spoke

Teesside University

Contributing expertise to the partnership, with hands-on experience for its students.

Regional collaboration

Stronger together across the North East

By building this capability in the North East, the universities aim to support innovation, attract investment and strengthen local supply chains.

Complementary strengths

GNN draws on the expertise of five universities and provides a focus for nanotechnology research in the region.

Backed by industry

Twenty North East high-tech companies are supporting the facility, alongside government funding that matches Newcastle University’s investment.

Skills across the region

Students and early-career researchers will gain hands-on experience in an advanced manufacturing environment.

Source: Newcastle University announcement, 15 July 2026

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