Designed to enhance – and continue – the already cutting edge research at Bedfordshire and further students’ experience during their studies, the facilities were officially opened yesterday by Lawrence McGinty, the former ITV Science Editor of 27 years.

The labs are equipped to undertake molecular, biochemical and microbiological practical sessions, utilising modern, specialist equipment including and a variety of analytical equipment such as spectrophotometers, PCR machines and a GC-MS system.

And at the opening, Mr McGinty, who earlier that day had been Guest of Honour at the University’s graduation ceremony, described the £600,000 redevelopment as “fantastic”.

“These laboratories will help to make a significant impact into the research here, which is continuing our fight against disease,” said Mr McGinty, who was also given a tour of the University’s journalism department and was interviewed by students hosting the community radio station Radio Lab 97.1fm.

“As far as I’m concerned, the more the merrier in terms of labs like these. I’m delighted to be here for the opening; compared to the labs I worked in it’s astonishing to think of what’s here – you simply wouldn’t have dreamt it 40 years ago.”

The facilities can host up to 50 students at a time and will be used by those studying on courses such as Biomedical Science, Biological Science, Forensics and Bioscience.

Bill Rammell, Vice Chancellor, added he was delighted to see the opening of the labs which will help to continue research already done by the University including helping to look for ways to cure Parkinson’s Disease and at iron-based remedies for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

“It’s tremendous to see the labs up and working. I feel it’s a great investment for the University, which will drive forward our students’ experience and bolster the research completed,” he said.