HIT Research Festival opens

Published:

Share:

Dr Mike Tanner (centre) pictured alongside students Helen Parker (University of Edinburgh) and Eunan McShane. They are part of a consortium involving three universities working on a project named Proteus to detect lung diseases.

Alternatives to animal testing and the future of cancer healthcare are just some of the topics being discussed on the opening day of Heriot-Watt's Health Innovation and Technologies (HIT) Research Festival.

Around 150 delegates arrived at the Edinburgh campus today (Monday April 1) for the influential conference that celebrates the university's achievements in the health technologies sector.

In addition to a series of engaging talks and workshops, a photographic exhibition led by the not-for profit volunteer organisation, the ASCUS lab, proved to be particularly popular among guests thanks to many arresting images that showcase the latest innovations in medical technologies research.

The HIT Research Festival is a two-day event run during Heriot-Watt's Year of Health campaign and features an exceptional mix of inspiring academics, patients, charity representatives and funders from around the world.

Co-chair of HIT, Dr Maïwenn Kersaudy-Kerhoas, said: “To attract such high-calibre speakers really is testament to Heriot-Watt's global reputation in life sciences.

“As a university, we are always looking to develop new global connections and events, such as this one, are a great way for us to share ideas and grow relationships.”

In 2019, Heriot-Watt celebrates its Year of Health, a calendar of engagement that spans schools, communities, businesses and government. Throughout the year, the campaign will highlight the university's research and the ground-breaking discoveries that are helping drive innovations in healthcare, diagnosis and treatment.