Science Minister visits York to discuss regional innovation and economic growth

Posted on Friday 6 November 2026

The visit highlighted the University’s key convening role in connecting world-class research with regional industry across three major innovation strengths: creative technologies, the bioeconomy, and safe autonomous systems.

During the visit, the Minister learned how the University’s research capabilities are delivering real-world impact:

• Creative industries: XR Stories is transforming creative research and development across York and North Yorkshire as a trusted partner in the regional and national ecosystem. Working alongside the CoSTAR Live Lab based at Production Park near Wakefield, and collaborating with MediaCity in Salford, this network creates a pan-Northern corridor of excellence spanning four mayoral authorities.
• Bioeconomy: Through BioYorkshire - a leading public-private partnership translating research into profitable, sustainable bio-based products - the University is advancing the region's bioindustrial potential. This initiative works alongside the BioIndustrial Cluster North (BICN) and the Centre for Excellence in Anaerobic Digestion (CEAD).
• Safe Autonomy: The Institute for Safe Autonomy (ISA) brings together over 100 interdisciplinary academics to ensure the safe design, deployment, and operation of autonomous systems. 

All three innovation areas share strong connections to potential developments at York Central, one of the UK’s largest regeneration sites.

The Minister's visit began with a tour of the XR Stories immersive research and development lab in the Guildhall, where he experienced live technology demonstrations. This was followed by a strategic roundtable discussion chaired by Professor Sarah Thompson, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research at the University.

The session opened with presentations highlighting each research innovation area before opening to strategic discussion and reflections from Minister.

Professor Ken Badcock, Interim Vice-Chancellor, introduced the roundtable discussion. He said: "We were delighted to welcome Minister Chris McDonald to York to demonstrate how our research excellence translates into tangible economic growth for Yorkshire and the wider region.

"From world-leading creative tech and pioneering bioeconomy solutions to safe autonomous systems, the University of York acts as a powerful convenor. 

“By bridging the gap between groundbreaking research, regional industry, and mayoral authorities, we are delivering sustainable growth, supporting key national sectors, and creating high-value opportunities across our communities."