EvoPhase is one of ten finalists. Its selection recognises the potential of the team’s work in AI methodologies to improve manufacturing equipment design.
EvoPhase founders (left to right): Chief Executive Officer Dominik Werner, Chief Scientific Officer Dr Kit Windows-Yule, Chief Operating Officer Jack Sykes, and Chief Technology Officer Leonard Nicusan are all from Birmingham's School of Chemical Engineering
EvoPhase, which enhances the performance of industrial process equipment, has been selected as a finalist for the inaugural Manchester Prize.
Announced by Chancellor Jeremy Hunt last Spring and launched in December 2023, the Manchester Prize celebrates teams of innovators that develop AI solutions to overcome challenges in the fields of energy, environment and infrastructure.
EvoPhase was chosen as one of just ten finalists, recognising the potential of the team’s work using novel evolution-inspired AI methodologies to improve the design of manufacturing equipment.
This AI-led ‘evolutionary design’ approach is applicable to a diverse range of process equipment, including mills, dryers, roasters, coaters, fluidised beds, stirred tanks and more.
EvoPhase was launched by University of Birmingham Enterprise last year, using a unique model of commercialisation known as an Operating Division, which allows industry rapid access to flexible, cutting-edge services from the University of Birmingham’s academic innovators.
The EvoPhase team is using their technology to develop EvoPhase Explore, a software-as-a-service platform that optimizes the geometry of processing equipment, to meet requirements in energy, throughput and mixing rate.
It is expected to transform industrial processes by significantly reducing energy consumption and enhancing operational efficiency while also making a meaningful contribution to environmental sustainability by reducing waste.
Explore addresses some of the most pressing challenges in the fields targeted by the Manchester Prize. As EvoPhase continues to refine and advance EvoPhase Explore, the team is excited to leverage the support and opportunities provided by the Manchester Prize to bring their solution to the forefront of industrial technology.
The Manchester Prize finalists were chosen by independent assessors based on rigorous criteria that include innovation, impact, long-term viability, feasibility, and adherence to safety and ethical standards. EvoPhase's selection highlights its commitment to these values and its potential to influence significant positive change within the industry.
We are immensely proud to be acknowledged as a finalist for the Manchester Prize. This recognition is a testament to our team's dedication and innovative approach to harnessing the power of AI for real-world impact. EvoPhase Explore represents a major advancement in our mission to support industries in becoming more efficient and environmentally responsible.
EvoPhase was launched by University of Birmingham Enterprise last year, using a unique model of commercialisation known as an Operating Division, which allows industry rapid access to flexible, cutting-edge services from the University of Birmingham’s academic innovators.
CEO Dominik Werner will be hosting a webinar on EvoPhase Explore on June 25th at 4 pm (BST). To sign up for the event please visit www.evophase.co.uk/webinar.
For media information contact Ruth Ashton, University of Birmingham Enterprise, r.c.ashton@bham.ac.uk
For commercial information about EvoPhase contact Rachel Long, EvoPhase, rachel@evophase.co.uk.
About the University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham is ranked amongst the world’s top 100 institutions, and its work brings people from across the world to Birmingham, including researchers and teachers and more than 6,500 international students from nearly 150 countries.
University of Birmingham Enterprise helps researchers turn their ideas into new services, products and enterprises that meet real-world needs. We also provide incubation, and support innovators and entrepreneurs with mentoring, advice, and training, manage the University’s Academic Consultancy Service, and University of Birmingham Enterprise Operating Divisions. Follow us on LinkedIn and X.
About EvoPhase
EvoPhase specialises in AI-driven solutions for industrial process optimization. Founded as an Operating Division of University of Birmingham Enterprise, EvoPhase leverages cutting-edge evolutionary algorithms to enhance the design and performance of industrial equipment. Our flagship product, EvoPhase Explore, optimizes the geometry of processing equipment to significantly reduce energy consumption, improve operational efficiency, and promote environmental sustainability. EvoPhase is dedicated to driving innovation and supporting industries in achieving their efficiency and sustainability goals.
Associate Professor in Chemical Engineering
Kit Windows-Yule is a Lecturer in Chemical Engineering, working jointly with the School of Physics and Astronomy's Positron Imaging Centre.
