Investment in new £1.75m research facility

Investment in new £1.75m research facility

Bondholder D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership is investing £850,000 in a new £1.75m research and innovation facility at fellow Bondholder the University of Derby.

The Facility for Omics Research in Metabolism (FORM) will focus on the effect that foods, vitamins, supplements, and drugs have on the human body, supporting the education of 800 highly skilled learners as well as providing over 20 jobs.

D2N2 Interim Chair, David Williams, said: “We at D2N2 are pleased to be able to back the Facility for OMICSs Research in Metabolism which will further boost our region’s thriving sciences sector and its burgeoning reputation for outstanding research."

Dr Chris Bussell, Pro Vice-Chancellor Dean of College of Science & Engineering at the University of Derby, added: “This new facility is an exciting proposition to further the capabilities of D2N2; and will establish cutting edge technologies, innovation and world-class research in the Life Sciences sector within Derby and Derbyshire that will contribute to the region’s economic growth.”

With the funding coming from the LEP's Local Growth Fund allocation, David Williams continued: “This project is just the latest in a long line of investments D2N2 has made in partnership with the University of Derby which improve the lives of local people, boost the economy, and help shape the future of our region.”

The objective of FORM is to improve the health outcomes of people through a better understanding of how these agents can improve metabolic conditions and treat diseases.

The facility, due to be completed by April 2021 and welcome its first learners in September 2021, will also bring new capabilities, capacities, and collaborations into D2N2 further advancing the reputation of the region as a hub for innovation in the understanding and treatment of human diseases.

Professor Warren Manning, Provost for Innovation and Research at the University of Derby, said: “This is another significant development in the University’s research capability, and we are delighted to be working in partnership with D2N2 once again to make it possible.”

Minister for Regional Growth and Local Government, Luke Hall MP said: “The Government is investing £850,000 through the Local Growth Fund in this innovative new research facility at the University of Derby which will further boost the region’s reputation as a leader in understanding and treating diseases.”

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