Newcastle University has been awarded £22 million by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) to continue its pioneering work in identifying new medicines, diagnostics, devices, and digital technologies that have the potential to transform patient care, reduce health inequalities, and create a more resilient healthcare system.
The five-year award, starting in April 2026, will support the work of the NIHR Innovation Observatory, a world-leading research centre based at Newcastle. The observatory provides strategic insights and data-driven intelligence to shape UK health and social care policy, guide investment decisions, and speed up the adoption of cutting-edge technologies that improve population health.
Building on a Decade of Innovation
This new funding builds on nearly ten years of NIHR investment, which has enabled Newcastle to establish itself as a leader in health innovation. The observatory works closely with researchers, industry leaders, policy makers, and healthcare professionals to identify emerging technologies and harness their potential to revolutionise care delivery.
With the fresh funding, the observatory will expand its analytical methods, strengthen its technical infrastructure, and enhance its ability to forecast future health challenges and opportunities.
The award also reflects the UK government’s long-term commitment to using horizon scanning as a key tool in shaping the future of health and social care.
Strengthening Partnerships Across the UK
The Innovation Observatory will collaborate with key government departments including the Department of Health and Social Care and the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. It will also work closely with national and regional stakeholders, charities, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and potential investors in the health and life sciences sector.
The observatory plays a vital role in strengthening the UK’s health system by delivering early insights into emerging innovations. These insights allow regulators, charities, policy makers, and industry leaders to take proactive action, ensuring policies, investments, and regulations are aligned to create the right environment for medical innovation to thrive.
This not only improves patient care but also strengthens the UK’s global position as a leader in life sciences, helping to drive competitiveness, attract investment, and stimulate economic growth.
New Funding Priorities
With this new award, the NIHR Innovation Observatory will:
- Advance horizon scanning techniques to turn data into actionable insights, enabling better decision making and competitive advantage.
- Build capacity and skills in horizon scanning to ensure knowledge is shared across the NHS, policy makers, and industry innovators.
- Strengthen international collaboration by forming cross-sector partnerships that bring together experts from across the global health ecosystem.
- Support SMEs, charities, and investors with access to timely intelligence on the UK innovation landscape, helping accelerate routes to market and maximise patient benefit.
Leadership Perspective
Professor Dawn Craig, Director of the NIHR Innovation Observatory, said:
“We are delighted to have secured this competitive funding award. It will significantly enhance our ability to turn data into rapid, actionable insights driving smarter decision making, faster adoption of innovation, and stronger collaboration with national and industry partners.”
She added:
“By strengthening our analytical capabilities and fostering cross-sector partnerships, we aim to improve care, accelerate innovation, and ensure the UK continues to lead in life sciences.”
