Economy Minister, Simon Hamilton has helped unveil the foundation stone at the new Queen’s University School of Biological Sciences.
The £39 million development which includes £10 million funding from the Department for the Economy will consolidate the School of Biological Sciences onto one location with the benefits of a single identity for the School. This will in turn create expansion space for other Schools within the University.
Speaking at Queen’s the Minister said: “It is essential that all stakeholders including local government, business and institutions of learning and other skills providers, work together to ensure the growth of the local economy. The key drivers of this outcome include innovation, research and development and improving the skills and employability of young people and individuals.
“The investment by the Department for the Economy in the consolidation of the School of Biological Sciences helps to support Queen’s University in providing modern up to date facilities and will enhance the wider infrastructure within higher education. Due to open in late 2018, the building will be home to globally recognised experts in areas right across the biological sciences with research focus on key global challenges.
“This development is a key part of the University’s long-term vision to create state-of-the-art facilities and will support research and education into the next decade and beyond. Promoting the growth of our knowledge economy is a key aim of my Department and it is vital we create an environment for students to gain confidence, develop their skills and reach their full potential. It is through nurturing creativity and innovation we are able to support future economic development and employment opportunities.”
Notes to editors:
For media enquiries, please contact Department for Economy Press Office on 028 9052 9604. Outside office hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.