Translating Genomic Discovery Into Clinical Impact
The DEVOTE Programme is a collaborative initiative dedicated to advancing the development and validation of technology for time critical genomic testing. Working across Greater Manchester's innovation ecosystem, the programme connects world-class research with real-world patient care.
Bridging the Gap Between Genomic Science and Patient Outcomes
Genetic information holds remarkable potential for improving clinical practice, yet many genomic tests remain too slow for time-sensitive medical decisions. Traditional testing approaches can take weeks to deliver results, placing them beyond practical use in urgent care settings.
The DEVOTE Programme was established to address this challenge. By fostering partnerships between universities, NHS trusts, and biotechnology companies, the programme creates a translational pipeline that accelerates the journey from scientific discovery to validated, clinically useful genomic diagnostics.
Based at The University of Manchester, the programme builds on Greater Manchester's world-leading reputation in genomics and precision medicine, with a clear objective: making rapid genomic testing accessible, reliable, and affordable for patients throughout the NHS.
Three Pillars of Collaborative Innovation
The programme organises its activities across three interconnected pillars, each contributing to the broader goal of bringing validated genomic testing into everyday clinical use.
Academic & Clinical Partners
A network of clinical scientists, health economists, regulatory specialists, and informatics experts provides the multidisciplinary foundation needed to translate genomic technologies from bench to bedside.
Explore partners →Live Projects
From rapid bedside stroke diagnostics to comprehensive pharmacogenetic passports, each project targets a genuine clinical need where faster genomic results can transform patient care and reduce health inequalities.
View projects →Translational Pipeline
Rather than following a conventional linear path, the programme employs a non-linear pipeline that integrates expert domains at every development phase, from biomarker characterisation through to regulatory approval.
Learn about the pipeline →A Collaborative Model for Genomic Innovation
The DEVOTE Programme recognises that moving genomic technologies into routine clinical care requires coordinated effort across multiple disciplines. The programme's approach reflects this through several guiding principles.
Cross-Domain Expertise
Eight specialist domains, from genomics and material sciences to health economics and regulatory governance, collaborate across every project to ensure comprehensive development.
Industry Integration
Biotechnology and diagnostics companies work alongside academic researchers and clinicians, ensuring that commercially viable products emerge from the translational pipeline.
Patient-Centred Validation
Every technology undergoes real-world clinical evaluation within NHS settings, providing robust evidence of safety, efficacy, and practical usability before wider adoption.
Addressing Health Inequalities
The programme places particular emphasis on ensuring that emerging genomic diagnostics are accessible and effective across diverse populations, reducing disparities in healthcare provision.
Programme News
Updates and developments from across the DEVOTE Programme and its collaborative network.
Lifesaving Bedside Stroke Test Receives UK Product Safety Mark
A ward-based genetic test developed by Manchester-based diagnostics company Genedrive, in collaboration with clinical and academic teams from The University of Manchester and Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, has been awarded the UK Conformity Assessed (UKCA) product mark. The certification clears the path for wider evaluation and adoption of the test within the National Health Service.
Greater Manchester Diagnostics Innovation Programme Secures Over £14m Investment
A health innovation programme designed to accelerate the development and deployment of novel diagnostics across Greater Manchester has been strengthened by a combined investment exceeding fourteen million pounds. The programme is delivered through a partnership involving Health Innovation Manchester, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, and The University of Manchester.
£100m R&D Levelling Up Funding Awarded to Accelerate Innovation
Greater Manchester has been selected alongside Glasgow City Region and the West Midlands to pilot the Innovation Accelerator programme, a new model for place-based research and development investment backed by one hundred million pounds in government funding. The programme targets sectors where each region has established research strengths.
Become a Collaboration Partner
The DEVOTE Programme welcomes enquiries from industry partners, clinical organisations, and research institutions interested in advancing genomic diagnostics.
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