University to establish cutting-edge training facility at Bruntwood Sci Tech

The University of Birmingham is set to establish a state-of-the-art medical training facility at Bruntwood SciTech, the UK’s largest property provider to the science, technology and innovation sectors.

Bruntwood SciTech has finalised a significant agreement of more than 50,000 sq ft of premium life sciences facilities with the University of Birmingham at its state-of-the-art and strategically located Birmingham Health Innovation Campus (BHIC).

The University of Birmingham will establish a best in class training facility within BHIC’s first building, known as No.1 BHIC.

As the West Midlands’ first dedicated life science hub and a government-designated Life Science Opportunity Zone (LSOZ), BHIC will drive forward significant advancements in research and solutions for improved healthcare in the region, providing much-needed additional clinical and incubation space for the University. 

The new facility within No.1 BHIC, will be known as the Birmingham Centre for Anatomy, Surgical and Clinical Skills (B-CASCS), and will join the Precision Health Technologies Accelerator (PHTA) in the flagship first building.

Only 10,000 sq ft of space remains available within the building, which has been purpose built to support life science businesses as part of the campus’ first phase.

PHTA is the University’s signature life science business innovation facility, which brings industry together with clinical-academic leaders to commercialise cutting-edge therapies and technologies. 

Green screens, microphones, cameras and other high-end audiovisual equipment will be seamlessly integrated into mock hospital wards, consulting rooms and a surgical theatre, ensuring an authentic and engaging training experience.

The Centre will also provide a high fidelity environment for surgical skills training, with both cadaveric and simulated facilities. 

Spanning 657,000 sq ft upon completion of the entire campus, BHIC will integrate cutting-edge research with commercial opportunities, creating a pioneering location for startups, SMEs and established enterprises in medtech, precision medicine and digital healthcare. 

Bruntwood SciTech - a joint venture between Bruntwood, Legal & General, and Greater Manchester Pension Fund - is also a partner in the West Midlands Health Tech Innovation Accelerator (WMHTIA), aimed at tackling the challenges life science companies face when bringing new technologies to the market.

No.1 BHIC is scheduled to open in the coming months, with the Birmingham Centre for Anatomy, Surgical and Clinical Skills welcoming its first cohort of students in September 2026.

Dr Kath Mackay, chief scientific officer for Bruntwood SciTech, said: “We are delighted to welcome the University of Birmingham’s Centre for Anatomy, Surgical and Clinical Skills to BHIC, reinforcing our commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration in the life sciences sector in the West Midlands.

“The Centre represents a transformative opportunity for aspiring healthcare professionals, providing students and postgraduate clinicians with unparalleled hands-on experience in a simulated environment, and opportunities for co-located companies to access the UK’s brightest healthcare minds. 

“This facility fosters a dynamic community where students and businesses can collaborate and drive impactful healthcare innovations.

“Through partnerships with clinical startups, academic leaders, and established enterprises, our ecosystem at BHIC will translate scientific breakthroughs into tangible healthcare solutions.

“It serves not only as a hub for research and development but also as a catalyst where innovation can flourish and shape the future of healthcare.”

Professor Neil Hanley, Pro-Vice-Chancellor & Head of the College of Medicine and Health at the University of Birmingham said: “By establishing our Birmingham Centre for Anatomy, Surgical and Clinical Skills at BHIC, we are providing the next generation of healthcare professionals with access to essential cutting-edge facilities.

“These state-of-the-art resources will enable students and postgraduate trainees to engage in practical learning experiences that mirror real-world healthcare environments.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Bruntwood SciTech, as this partnership will drive innovation and deliver impactful healthcare solutions within Birmingham’s leading life science ecosystem. Together, we are creating a dynamic environment that fosters academic and clinical excellence, benefiting not only our students but also the wider community and healthcare industry.”

Bruntwood SciTech was advised by Track Real Estate, CBRE and Savills.