Industry scientists to benefit from new analytical research facility

Notes to editors:

• The University of York’s Department of Biology is one of the leading centres for biological teaching and research in the UK. In the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise, it was ranked equal first among broad spectrum bioscience departments in the UK for quality that was judged to be world-leading. The Department both teaches degree courses and undertakes research across the whole spectrum of modern Biology, from molecular genetics and biochemistry to ecology. Its biomedical research includes an Immunology and Infection Unit (jointly with the Hull York Medical School), work on infertility and three research professors funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research and York Against Cancer.
• The Department of Chemistry at the University of York has an excellent reputation for teaching and research. In the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise the Department was ranked third among UK chemistry departments, with 75 per cent of research assessed as internationally excellent. It was rated by the NSS as the leading chemistry department in the UK for student satisfaction. The Department, which is  is led by prize-winners in all areas of chemistry, has over 50 members of academic staff, more than 400 undergraduate students, 160 graduates and 80 research fellows.
• The University of York Technology Facility is a premier research support and technology training unit in the Department of Biology. With 19 expert staff and more than £6.5 million of advanced equipment in 2,000 square metres of laboratory space, it provides access to important bioscience technology platforms for University and external researchers.
• Science City York (SCY) is successfully driving the creation and growth of business and employment opportunities across York and North Yorkshire within three fast-growing technology sectors – bioscience, the creative industries, and IT & digital. Activities include:
  • Investing in science/business initiatives such as infrastructure, demonstrators and joint ventures
  • Brokering research-company relationships
  • Managing and enhancing industry-driven sector networks
  • Delivering and coordinating inspiring science and technology-based festivals and events.
    Established in 1998 as a partnership between City of York Council and The University of York with significant backing from business, Science City York is supported by Yorkshire Forward, the Regional Development Agency for Yorkshire and the Humber
• The Northern Way is a unique initiative, bringing together the cities and regions of the North of England to work together to improve the sustainable economic development of the North towards the level of more prosperous regions. Formed as a partnership between the three northern Regional Development Agencies (Yorkshire Forward, Northwest Regional Development Agency and One NorthEast), it also works with local authorities, universities, the private sector and other partners to secure a strong coalition in support of this goal. The Northern Way aims to influence policy and delivery at a local, city region, regional and national level, to join up thinking and encourage collaboration.
• Yorkshire Forward over the past year has created or safeguarded more than 22,254 jobs; helped create and attract more than 1067 new businesses, assisted 60,005 people in skills, and attracted £467m in investment — achieving or exceeding all of the targets it was set.