A £7 million laboratory has opened at Ulster University as a result of a partnership between Northern Ireland’s business and education organisations.

A collaboration between Ulster University, Invest Northern Ireland, Heartsine Technologies and Randox Laboratories resulted in the Advanced Biomedical Engineering Laboratory. The lab will offer equipment and expertise for companies developing prototypes for the biomedical, engineering, electronic devices and aerospace sectors.

At the opening of the new lab, professor Jim Mclaughlin, Ulster University, said: “Developing technology platforms to help translate our world class science and discovery to a device format as promptly as possible is essential for the very best design and performance.a

“In healthcare technology, Ulster University leads the way in the development of new patient monitoring systems, stimulation devices, wearable solutions and diagnostic sensing.

“The lab will enable our researchers to develop the strong leadership and innovation skills so critical to future industry growth, working in collaboration with our industry partners.”

The new lab marks another step towards the medtech sector for Ulster University. Earlier this year the university opened a £2 million medtech hub to develop healthcare technology.

About the new lab, Dr Peter FitzGerald, Randox Laboratories, said: “As one of the UK’s leading life sciences companies, we are delighted to be a partner in this innovative collaboration and to promote Northern Ireland as a global life sciences hub. We believe the greatest improvements to patients’ lives are possible through the continuous development of new technologies.

“This unique laboratory will facilitate that, as it will allow the rapid development of test prototype devices and also assist us to expand our unique range of high-calibre analyser systems.”