A new centre of excellence that will support innovation in the medicine, food and drink, and high-value manufacturing sectors has opened in Glasgow.
A joint initiative between the University of Strathclyde and LGC, the UK’s world-leading company for chemical and bio-measurement, the Centre for Advanced Measurement Research and Health Translation will focus on Scotland’s health and life sciences innovation ecosystem.
The Centre will provide a platform for collaborative research and innovation in measurement, supporting industry to improve reliability, safety, productivity and ultimately, economic growth in a wide range of areas, from clinical diagnostics to innovative new food products.
This new venture will also provide Scotland with a more productive future workforce through the education and training of scientists and engineers.
At the launch of the Centre Joe Fitzpatrick, Minister for Public Health, Sport and Wellbeing in the Scottish Government, said: “The centre represents an excellent example of collaboration bringing together a wide range of partners – including academia, the private sector and the government – to support our health and wellbeing agenda and accelerate growth.
“It presents new opportunities for innovation to create new knowledge which will help inform the development of public health approaches for a Scotland where everyone thrives.”
Dr Julian Braybrook, Director of Measurement Science at the National Measurement Laboratory at LGC, and the UK’s Government Chemist, said: “LGC and the University of Strathclyde already deliver independent leading research and solutions for the broad life science markets.
“Working together, this partnership can bring truly disruptive technology opportunities to realise improvements for the health and wellbeing of Scottish communities.”
Scotland has a long history of innovation, particularly in the biotechnology sector. The centre’s initial focus will be on:
- Measurements for digital health and wellbeing through fast, non-destructive and quantitative molecular and chemical imaging analysis
- Commercial learning and adoption of best measurement practice for manufacturing of foods and beverages, chemicals and biotechnology products
Professor Sir Jim McDonald, Principal of the University of Strathclyde, said: “Collaboration between universities, industry and public sector partners plays a key role in the acceleration and application of research.
“This strategic partnership between Strathclyde and LGC will provide a powerful platform to engage the SME and start-up community in the health and wellbeing sector and foster new innovations and the development of skilled people for the benefit of society.”
The new centre will be based at the University, which is at the heart of Glasgow City Innovation District. Launched earlier this year, the District is attracting significant numbers of companies and organisations looking to nurture and accelerate growth, improve productivity, and access world-class research, technology and talent from the University.