The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has launched a digital hub in Leeds with a view to driving partnerships and innovation across the region.
“Leeds was selected due to its expertise in digital health and strong academic base,” the announcement states. “The MHRA’s expansion will build on this momentum – driving regional partnerships, attracting skilled talent and local investment.”
Set to be located in Wellington Place in Leeds city centre, the hub will initially be staffed by 30 permanent and highly-skilled roles that will sit within the Digital and Technology Group, focused on digital delivery, software development and data science.
The launch supports the government’s Places for Growth strategy, the agency highlights, helping to expand the regional footprint of public bodies to ensure more even distribution of opportunities and expertise across the UK.
Wes Streeting, health and social care secretary, said: “There is a global tech revolution in healthcare unfolding, and Yorkshire will help our country lead it. This isn’t just about creating new jobs across the region – it’s also about bolstering a city that’s already leading the way in digital health.” Referring to Leeds as “a healthcare innovation powerhouse”, he added: “Leeds is the perfect place to bring together the MHRA’s regulatory expertise with a thriving tech community, world-class universities, and strong NHS presence.”
Richard Stubbs, chief executive of Health Innovation Yorkshire & Humber also welcomed the news, pointing to the Leeds region’s “world class” digital and medical technology capabilities. “We’re hugely looking forward to working closely with our MHRA colleagues to drive valuable collaborations and partnerships that will ultimately benefit patient care and deliver local economic growth,” he commented.
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Innovation in health and care
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