About

MEMetic is pioneering a revolutionary approach to water management, combining nature’s biological innovations with cutting-edge polymer chemistry. Led by Professor Alan Goddard, School of Biosciences, and Dr Matthew Derry, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnologies, at Aston University’s Aston Institute for Membrane Excellence (AIME), our mission is to develop innovative biomimetic membranes that address today’s most pressing water challenges.

Inspired by nature, our technology uses selective protein transporters embedded in advanced, eco-friendly materials to create highly efficient biomimetic membranes. These membranes offer a sustainable solution for:

  • Low-energy desalination – providing clean drinking water from seawater.
  • Resource recovery – reclaiming valuable commodities such as phosphorus for agriculture, contributing to the circular economy.
  • Toxic contaminant removal – filtering out harmful pollutants like arsenic to protect communities.

By combining science, sustainability, and social impact, MEMetic is committed to delivering clean, safe, and affordable water for all.

Impact

Globally, 2 billion people lack access to safe drinking water, and 3.5 billion do not have safely managed sanitation services. MEMetic is tackling this crisis by developing next-generation membranes that:

  • Reduce energy consumption for water purification
  • Recover vital nutrients resources to establish and support the circular economies
  • Remove harmful toxins from water sources

Through partnerships with businesses, policymakers, and researchers, MEMetic is driving real-world impact - ensuring that scientific advancements turn into tangible benefits for communities worldwide.

This will also:

  • Support the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)  - SDG6 Clean Water and Sanitation.
  • Contribute to local economic growth by fostering high-quality jobs and industrial innovation

An Introduction to the MEMetic Project

Funding

MEMetic is funded by the DSIT Research Ventures Catalyst, a UK government initiative supporting pioneering science with commercial potential. This funding enables us to accelerate the development and adoption of our biomimetic membrane technology, bringing it closer to market and ensuring life-changing benefits for those who need it most.

Our work is also supported by:

Our Team

MEMetic is led by experts in interdisciplinary science and business, dedicated to creating transformative solutions in water management.

Scientific Leads

  • Professor Alan Goddard – CSO and Training and Industry Lead, AIME
    School of Biosciences, College of Health and Life Sciences
    a.goddard@aston.ac.uk

  • Dr Matthew Derry – CTO and Communications Lead, AIME
    Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnologies, College of Engineering and Physical Sciences
    m.derry@aston.ac.uk

MEMetic Team

  • Professor Tom Stephenson – CEO

  • Dr Martina Pasini – Business Development Officer

  • Mr Matthew Cooper – CFO

  • Mr Luke Southan - COO

Opportunities to join our team

We are pleased to offer the following opportunities

Postdoctoral Research Associate (2 posts) - School of Biosciences
Aston University Birmingham

Postdoctoral Research Associate (2 posts) - School of Engineering and Innovation
Aston University Birmingham

Postdoctoral Research Associate - School of Engineering and Innovation
Aston University Birmingham

 

Get Involved

MEMetic welcomes collaboration with researchers, businesses, policymakers, and investors who share our vision for a sustainable future.

Join us in reshaping the future of water management