A £3.5m investment in cutting-edge science labs at Abertay University in Scotland is promising to put students at the forefront of food, forensics and biomedical sciences.
The Consumer Experience Laboratory is described as unique in Scotland and comprises 12 climatically controlled booths designed for the sensory analysis of food. It has a preparation and serving room linked to a kitchen as well as a waiting room which can be used for consumer experience testing, student tutorials and small group working.
The New Product Development Laboratory, meanwhile, will be used for pilot scale food manufacture schemes across a range of food processes and industries. Designed to food manufacturing and environmental health standards, the zone features a controlled barrier, change area, walk-in cold room and store.
A teaching area featuring two new labs will also be used by the forensic science and biomedical science divisions. Both are linked, equipped with two high-tech fume cupboards, and designed specifically to accommodate 30 students each.
Features include a controllable camera, independent monitors and a total of 15 display screens which can be operated collectively or independently by teaching staff and students.
The final space – a learning/social area – is multi-purpose and includes an 84-inch screen and seating. A link corridor around all of the labs has seating and lockers.
The official opening of the new facilities in Dundee will take place on May 30, attended by guests from the worlds of science, industry, business and academia. Biologist Dame Anne Glover will formally unveil the suite of labs.
Professor Carl Schaschke, head of the School of Science, Engineering and Technology, said: “This project forms part of the university’s commitment to excellence in teaching and research. Not only will the new labs benefit Abertay students for years to come, the facilities have huge potential for business and we already have a significant engagement with a number of local companies who are keen to work with us.”
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