The University of Hull has decided to close the Department of Chemistry and the Positron Emission Tomography Research Centre (PETRC) in response to financial challenges it faces as an institution. These challenges are not unique to the University of Hull and reflects a sector wide problem, with almost three quarters of universities in England likely to face financial challenges this year.
The PETRC closed its doors at the end of December 2024, with all staff leaving the facility. This is an enormous setback to what was a successful collaborative project between the University of Hull, Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, and the Daisy Appeal Charity, who have invested more than £15M in infrastructure and research.
This news will be devastating for the UK radiochemistry and radiopharmaceutical community. The PETRC was engaged in important research with a successful track record in both securing funding and innovation; the facility was a favoured collaborator with many institutions and industry partners in the UK and internationally and was responsible for training many skilled scientists who have gone on to successful careers and positively contribute to our field. There is a worldwide shortage of skilled radiochemists, and as the sector grows due to the rise of theranostics, demand will increase. The loss of excellent training facilities is a great concern and exacerbates an already challenging situation.
The Molecular Imaging Research Centre (MIRC), a state-of-the-art GMP facility focused on delivering research studies is owned and operated by the Daisy Appeal Charity and remains committed to its investment and strategic direction. Many staff from PETRC are now working at the MIRC and are focused on bringing the facility into operation. The Daisy Appeal Charity and MIRC have already forged exciting collaborations with academic and industry partners, which it looks forward to delivering once operational.
Professor Nick Stafford, Chairman of the Daisy Appeal Charity says
It is unfortunate that the University of Hull has disinvested in PET research at a time when the field is rapidly growing, and opportunities are abundant. The Daisy Appeal Charity has invested a lot of money into the project, donated by local people who want to see cutting edge research and clinical trial opportunities here in Hull, and remains committed and focused on bringing the Molecular Imaging Research Centre into operation and to be a resounding success.
100% of the donations received go to fund vital lifesaving research and provision of medical scanning facilities.
Please note all funds are used in full by the charity to further its objectives.
The Hull and East Yorkshire Medical Research Centre
A Charitable Company Limited by Guarantee in England and Wales. Company No. 4017833
Registered office: Daisy Building, Castle Hill Hospital, Castle Road, Cottingham HU16 5JQ Registered Charity No. 1095652
