University of Warwick has received a transformational £10 million philanthropic gift from alumnus Tim Hartnoll to establish a pioneering new research centre dedicated to sustainable electrical chemistry research for new forms of batteries.
The new Hartnoll Centre for Experimental Fuel Technologies will unite world-leading experts in chemistry, materials science, physics, and engineering to overcome one of the greatest challenges of our time: developing sustainable ways to create and store energy for a cleaner, more resilient future.
Commenting on the gift, Professor Stuart Croft, Vice-Chancellor and President, University of Warwick, said: "This extraordinary act of generosity represents a defining moment for Warwick and for the future of sustainable energy. The Hartnoll Centre will develop new experimental fuel technologies that are cleaner, more efficient, and more accessible. These breakthroughs will power industries, communities, and countries into a brighter, more sustainable future.
"We are deeply grateful for this remarkable philanthropic gift. It demonstrates how philanthropy empowers leading universities like Warwick to find transformative solutions to global challenges facing all of us, and to do so with ambition".
This major philanthropic commitment represents one of the largest gifts in Warwick's 60-year history and marks a defining moment as it prepares to launch a major philanthropic campaign in 2026.
Tim Hartnoll, one of Warwick's most generous and long-standing supporters, was presented with the University's Benefactor's Medal in July 2025, recognising the transformative impact of his support. His extraordinary commitment has been instrumental in shaping the University's culture of philanthropy and driving forward its global research ambitions.
Tim Hartnoll, Executive Chairman, X-Press Feeders said: "Since 1976, Warwick has played an important role in my life, shaping how I think and how I approach the world. I've always believed universities like Warwick are at their best when they bring people together to solve global challenges, and supporting research that drives innovation in sustainable energy feels both urgent and necessary.
"Funding the new Hartnoll Centre for Experimental Fuel Technologies is an important continuation of my philanthropy to the University, and I'm proud to give back to an institution that continues to push boundaries and prepare the next generation to lead with purpose."
Over the years, Tim has provided exceptional support for Warwick's research community, funding postdoctoral positions and PhD scholarships that strengthen the University's world-class research capability. This includes funding 13 postdoctoral research positions and 12 PhD scholarships within Warwick's Astronomy and Astrophysics Group in the Department of Physics, one of the biggest gifts ever to Astronomy research in the UK.
The new Hartnoll Centre for Experimental Fuel Technologies will position Warwick, and the UK, as the global leader in experimental fuel innovation. It will build on Warwick's already strong reputation in clean energy research, with leading projects in hydrogen fuel systems, green chemistry, and battery technologies.
By combining expertise across disciplines, from catalysis and fuel cells to hydrogen storage, materials discovery, and digital simulation, the Hartnoll Centre will enable the creation of experimental systems that could redefine how energy is produced, stored, and used.
Professor Patrick Unwin FRS, Director of the Hartnoll Centre for Experimental Fuel Technologies, University of Warwick, said: "Energy innovation is one of the most pressing challenges for the world, given the need to urgently address climate change and increased energy demand. It requires the freedom to explore, the courage to take risks, and the collaboration of the brightest minds across multiple fields.
"The Hartnoll Centre will combine scientific excellence with the entrepreneurial spirit that defines Warwick. Thanks to Tim's philanthropic support, we'll attract and fund a pipeline of global talent that will transform our understanding of clean energy systems and set a new direction for next generation energy technologies."
As Warwick celebrates its 60th anniversary, the establishment of the Hartnoll Centre stands as a powerful testament to the University's founding ethos: boldness, innovation, and the belief that academic excellence can drive societal good.
