University of Chichester to open two specialised pathology labs thanks to OfS funding
Two specialised pathology labs are set to open at the University of Chichester in the next year, thanks to substantial grant funding from the Office for Students. The university, which recently launched degrees in Biomedical Science and Digital Pathology, has secured £309,500 from the government to upgrade its existing biomedical facilities at its Tech Park in Bognor Regis.
Two offices will be converted into specialized laboratories for digital pathology training. These will include a cell culture lab and a tissue imaging lab with fluorescence microscopy and bioprinting capabilities. The labs will enable digital image generation for AI-based analysis.
Professor Mike Lauder, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Health, Science and Engineering at the University of Chichester, said: “These new laboratories represent a major step forward in how we prepare our students for the future of biomedical science. By integrating digital pathology and AI-driven analysis into our teaching and research, we’re equipping graduates with the practical and technological skills that are urgently needed across healthcare and life sciences. This investment will help us bridge the gap between innovation and clinical application, ensuring our students are ready to meet real-world challenges.”
Digital Pathology is an emerging field that integrates biomedical science with artificial intelligence to modernise disease diagnosis. Both the NHS 10-Year Plan and the Royal College of Pathologists highlight the need for digital and AI skills in this area, and there is a critical shortage of trained professionals.
Professor Symeon Dagkas, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Chichester, said: “This funding will enhance our existing biomedical science facilities, putting us at the forefront of biomedical education in the South East. The University of Chichester is well-placed to lead this initiative, with advanced laboratories, strong industry links, and expertise in biomedical science, computing, and AI. With this welcome investment from the Office for Students, we can continue to provide high-quality training to the next generation of health professionals.”
Anyone interested in biomedical science and how it addresses important issues is invited to join Professor Nat Milton at his inaugural lecture at the University of Chichester on 27 November, as he discusses the discoveries that have shaped Alzheimer’s disease research and the new possibilities for treatment.
The event, titled amyloid-ß, The Poison in Your Human Machine, marks his promotion to Professor of Biomedical Science and will explore his pioneering research into amyloid-ß, a key player in Alzheimer’s disease.
The lecture will be held on 27 November from 6-7.30pm at The ShowRoom on the Bishop Otter campus. Guests are invited to enjoy complimentary refreshments from before the lecture begins. Entry is free, to reserve a space, go to Eventbrite.
For more information about studying Biomedical Science at the University of Chichester, visit www.chi.ac.uk/health/course/bsc-hons-biomedical-science.
