New research centre has a touch of C-LaSS

The Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences has officially launched a new research centre, the Centre for Life and Sport Sciences (C-LaSS), with a morning of insightful talks and a special guest.

A C-LaSS apart

C-LaSS is part of the School of Health Sciences, whose Research Director, Loukia Tsaprouni, launched the Centre with a talk on what areas C-LaSS will focus on and an overview of its current achievements. In attendance were a host of academics from the University as well as Steve McCabe, Labour MP for Selly Oak, enjoying his second visit to the University as part of the Royal Society Pairing Scheme.

The Centre’s research areas include epigenetics, genetics, cell and molecular biology microbiology and bioinformatics, as well as sport and exercise nutrition, sports therapy, sports psychology, exercise science and school sport.

Also presenting were two Senior Lecturers in Biomedical Sciences, Ashok Patel and David Lee, who both provided exciting information on some of the research projects they are currently involved in, and the areas in which they intend to assess as part of C-LaSS. Lewis Gough, Lecturer in Physiology and Nutrition, also gave an insightful update on what the Department of Sport and Exercise Science has achieved since its recent inception. 

Positive feedback

To officially launch C-LaSS, Steve McCabe gave a short speech and cut the ceremonial cake. “It’s important Birmingham City University establishes itself at the centre of medical developments,” he said. “This new Centre is exactly what we need in the region and has the potential and the expertise to improve lives and help people.”

On the opening of the Centre, Loukia Tsaprouni said: “This is the official launch of C-LaSS but behind the scenes we have already made remarkable achievements in terms of securing prestigious grants, fostering partnerships and establishing a strong research community.

“The centre will focus on an interdisciplinary approach, bringing together expertise from different disciplines ranging from genetics and bioinformatics to sport physiology and psychology, in an effort to address one of the main challenges that Birmingham and the Midlands face today which is healthy leaving and healthy ageing.”