New medical research programme for Manchester

A strategic partnership between the University of Manchester and six local NHS trusts was formed yesterday (June 18th) and will establish a series of innovative research programmes in the area by the 2014.

Greater Manchester has a proud history of scientific achievement in health research based on a number of major strengths

Professor Alan North

Director

Manchester Academic Health Science Centre

The partnership will carry out the research activities under the banner of the Manchester Academic Health Science Centre (AHSC) and counts the Central Manchester and Manchester Children's University Hospitals NHS Trust and Salford Primary Care Trust (PCT) among it members.

Professor Alan North, Director of the new centre, commented: "Greater Manchester has a proud history of scientific achievement in health research based on a number of major strengths.

"The simple vision for Manchester AHSC is that by 2021 Greater Manchester will have become one of the world’s leading health research centres.

He also predicted Manchester AHSC would attract inward investment and contribute to the innovation and enterprise in the region.

Salford PCT notes several examples where Manchester has been at the forefront of medical research, including being the clinical location of the world’s first IVF baby and the first hip replacement.