Newcastle University Launches Cutting-Edge Cancer Testing Hub

A new facility at Newcastle University is set to enhance cancer diagnosis and research capabilities. The institution has partnered with Curium International, a leading company in the field, to establish a centre that will produce a diagnostic radiotracer. This material is crucial for powering positron emission tomography (PET) scans, which are used to detect and monitor various illnesses, including cancer and heart disease.

The hub will be located in the Bedson Building on the university’s campus, conveniently situated near the Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI). Officials from the university expressed optimism about the significant impact this initiative will have on patient care and research in the region.

Enhancing Diagnostic Capabilities

Professor Quentin Anstee, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for the Faculty of Medical Sciences at Newcastle University, emphasized the importance of this collaboration. He stated, “This partnership with Curium brings further leading-edge care, research and innovation to the region. As part of our commitment to creating a world in which we all live better, for longer, we’re always looking to develop faster diagnosis and treatment for patients.”

The new facility aims to facilitate quicker access to advanced diagnostic tools for healthcare professionals. It is anticipated to support not only patient diagnosis but also ongoing research in the field. The official opening is scheduled for mid-2026, at which point it is expected to serve all PET and CT scanners in the North East, particularly for patients needing brain imaging or cancer diagnosis.

Advancing Medical Technology

Dr Meera Vijayaraghavan, who played a key role in establishing the commercial partnership with Curium, highlighted the broader implications of this facility. “From drug discovery, through diagnostic medicine, treatment plans, and even brain-computer interfacing, we’re building more and more links with commercial partners working in med-tech,” she noted. The collaboration with Curium complements existing efforts in the university’s Centre for In Vivo Imaging and adds significant capabilities to the med-tech sector in the North East of England.

Curium’s Ruairi O’Donnell, general manager for the UK and Ireland, expressed pride in the company’s role over the past decade in expanding access to essential tests. He stated, “Nuclear technology plays a vital role in helping doctors to diagnose disease, and crucially, it has the potential to transform cancer treatment for up to 80% of cancers in the next 10-15 years.” O’Donnell further affirmed that Curium’s investment in Newcastle underscores their commitment to increasing access to innovative diagnostic solutions.

This new facility represents a significant step forward in the quest for improved cancer care, aligning with Newcastle University’s mission to translate research into tangible healthcare advancements. As it prepares to open its doors, the hub is expected to become a vital resource for both patients and medical professionals in the region, driving progress in cancer diagnosis and treatment.