UWE opens £7m science labs

The new complex of research and teaching spaces will be used by over 1,000 students

University of the West of England (UWE) has unveiled its new £7m science laboratories.

The new state-of-the-art faculty of health and applied science laboratories, known as the Lab Zone, are made up of interconnected research labs and teaching spaces.

The new complex will be used by over 1,000 students studying forensic, biological, biomedical, environmental and conservation science. It also includes a specialist post-graduate research centre for master’s and PhD students.

Our students will benefit from the enhanced facilities and develop the lab skills needed for the latest jobs in industry.
– Dr Lyn Newton

The facilities include a suite of containment level two bioscience laboratories and core instrumentation suites supporting molecular biology, microscopy, mass spectrometry and radiation detection. The laboratories have a flexible, open-style design to promote team-based working.

Dr Lyn Newton, head of the department of applied sciences, said: “We’ve always had a vision of bringing the labs together and making them better connected, more open in layout and with much greater visibility for students and staff. These new labs are vastly improved, with better lighting, flooring and surfaces, all resulting in an improved teaching and learning experience.

“This is significant investment for our students, and I’m pleased the work is now complete. Our students will benefit from the enhanced facilities and develop the lab skills needed for the latest jobs in industry.”