Royal visit to the International Centre for Life to mark landmark 25th anniversary
9th October 2025
His Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester visited the International Centre for Life (Life) in Newcastle upon Tyne today (8 October) to mark its 25th anniversary.
The vibrant science hub in the heart of the city, brings together scientists, clinicians, technologists and educationalists from around the world, and was opened by Queen Elizabeth II in May 2000.
Working together, the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Hospitals Trust and Newcastle University have achieved international acclaim for their cutting-edge research, patient treatments and some notable world firsts.
In 2003, Life was the first place in the UK to produce human embryonic stem cells. Six years later, Life became the first place in the world to create human sperm from embryonic stem cells and in 2023 their work led to the first baby to be born using donor mitochondria.
The Duke also visited the award-winning Life Science Centre and met local schoolchildren, many of whom were from the West of Newcastle, one of the most deprived areas in the country, who were taking part in activities and curriculum-linked workshops.
Linda Conlon, Life Chief Executive, who has been part of the leadership team since the project’s inception, said: “I’m so proud of what has been achieved over the last 25 years. It’s been the icing on the cake sharing some of it with The Duke.
“I’ve very fond memories of the visit by The late Queen. The Duke’s visit today highlights the importance of the life-changing work carried out at Life.”