THE UK Skills Minister officially opened Edge Hill University’s cutting-edge Life Sciences building on:- Thursday 25 September 2025, marking a major milestone in the University’s commitment to advancing scientific education, research and regional innovation.

Rt Hon Baroness Jacqui Smith met with the University’s senior leaders and enjoyed a tour of the £17.4million facility, which features advanced teaching spaces, industry-grade equipment and specialist labs including a histology suite, cell culture laboratories and molecular biology room.

The building will serve as a hub for research and skills development in areas such as biomedical science, biochemistry and plant science, and is designed to support the next generation of scientists, healthcare professionals and bioscience innovators.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Minister for Skills praised Edge Hill University’s investment and vision:- “I was really impressed by the new Life Sciences building, which represents exactly the kind of ambition we need to strengthen the UK’s position as a global leader in science and innovation through our Plan for Change. Universities like Edge Hill are crucial to breaking down barriers to opportunity in their region while driving growth and opportunity in cutting edge industries nationwide. It’s great to see students getting hands-on experience of the world of work alongside advanced technical skills.”

The new building is part of a wider transformation of Edge Hill’s expertise in science, which includes the advancement of research in cancer, neurobiology, genetic skin conditions and ageing, reinforcing the University’s growing reputation in health, medical and environmental research.

Professor Michael Young, Vice-Chancellor of Edge Hill University, welcomed the Minister and highlighted the building's role in shaping the future of life sciences:- “We are proud to be investing in facilities that match the excellence of our teaching and research. The Life Sciences building is not only a cornerstone of our campus but a springboard for new partnerships with industry, the NHS and research organisations – all focused on improving health, sustainability and scientific discovery.”

An exhibition entitled The Jones Nature Prints, created between 1876 and 1880 by Arthur Mowbray Jones of Bristol, was also unveiled in the building’s foyer. The collection celebrates the remarkable artistry and scientific precision of Jones’ pioneering and distinctive method of recording plants. These rare impressions capture the Victorian spirit of discovery which is still inspiring students, researchers and the wider university community today.

The event follows Edge Hill’s success in the recent Guardian University Guide 2026 - the University ranked in the top 10 for biomedical science and biology, and placed top 20 for the percentage of students who were happy with their choice of university 15 months after graduation.

Find out more about studying at Edge Hill University and opportunities for continuing professional development, expert consultancy and knowledge exchange.