New £4.2m eye research institute to open in 2026
Sunderland UniversityA new £4.2m eye research institute will open next year.
Sunderland University said the Northern Ophthalmic Research and Innovation Institute (NORI) will open alongside the city's new eye hospital in 2026.
Funded by the university and South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust, it will be based at the university.
The site's co-director Matthew Campbell said: "This represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for our region."
He said that millions of eye scans were taken in north-east England each year and the institute could use the data to improve the diagnosis of eye diseases, as well as strengthen preventative care.
"Bringing together cutting-edge eye imaging, secure data platforms, and world-class research expertise, we can support a step-change in our region's health and prosperity prospects," he said.
Deputy vice chancellor of Sunderland University Milan Radosavljevic said the institute would mark a "pivotal moment" for the city.
He said: "By harnessing this vital data and expertise, we are creating a model of preventive healthcare that benefits communities across the North East and far beyond."
