A UCL-led centre of excellence investigating blood-borne viruses (BBVs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is one of the Health Protection Research Units (HPRUs) across the UK that will share in a £58.7 million research investment from the NIHR.
“Our partnerships with leading universities play a critical role in building the science that keeps us safe – not just from current threats, but the health challenges of tomorrow.”
Funds will support research at the NIHR HPRU in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections at UCL aimed at preventing and controlling STIs and BBVs - including work to improve the care and management of those diagnosed with infections.
Findings from the UK’s HPRUs are used by Public Health England to keep the public safe from current and emerging public health threats.
Professor Caroline Sabin, Director of the HPRU at UCL, said: “We are very excited to hear that we have received continued funding. Over the past six years, the HPRU has successfully supported a range of projects that have increased our understanding of behavioural risks for many of these infections, we have established novel and effective approaches to increase the number of people being tested for these infections, and have undertaken research to support the development of improved care pathways for people living with blood-borne infections.”
Professor Yvonne Doyle, Medical Director at PHE, said: “Our partnerships with leading universities play a critical role in building the science that keeps us safe – not just from current threats, but the health challenges of tomorrow.”
Health Minister Nicola Blackwood praised the “world-leading research conducted by some of brightest minds up and down the country.”
