Celebrating 25 years of Life
Our Evolving Story
For 25 years, Life has been a place where people can go to discover the wonders of science – whether it’s a young child getting a glimpse of the Earth from space, or a researcher working on life-changing treatment.
As we celebrate our milestone birthday, we’re taking a moment to reflect – and to look ahead.
We’ve created a special document that explores Life’s impact over the past 25 years, alongside a short film that captures what this milestone means to us.
You’ll also find stories from people whose lives have been shaped by Life – from those who’ve benefitted from the research and treatment that happens on our site, to those who’ve worked here or visited the science centre and been inspired to pursue a career in STEM.
Watch our film
Our story is part of the fabric of Newcastle
When the idea of Life was first discussed, it was an exciting time for science.
The world was discussing the pitfalls and potential of stem cell research, thanks to stories such as that of Dolly the Sheep – the first mammal ever to be cloned from an adult cell.
Life’s project partners saw the potential in a space that explored genetic and genomic medicine. They came up with the innovative idea of a science hub that would not just be home to a visitor attraction that would help people explore and understand science – but also to cutting-edge research and treatment.
Life was built on the site of the old Newcastle Infirmary, and designed by celebrated North East architect Sir Terry Farrell. It now plays host to a popular science centre, and is home to researchers and clinicians, as well as bars, nightclubs and outdoor events.
A place that excites
Life welcomes more than a quarter of a million people every year to its science centre. We work with partners across the North East to make it a welcoming place for visitors with autism, deafness and other sensory needs.
A place that educates
Led by inspirational educators, our schools programme brings science to life for students from reception to post-16. We provide hands-on activities and learning experiences that can’t be replicated in the classroom.
A place that showcases
As well as our ever-changing roster of self-made exhibitions and activities, we have also welcomed exciting temporary exhibitions such as Body Worlds Vital, Game On, and the new permanent art installation of planet Earth: Gaia.
A place that discovers
Scientists based at Life were the first in the world to clone a human embryo back in 2005. The tireless and outstanding work of the researchers and clinicians on site has continued ever since.
A place that inspires
There have been many special visitors to Life over the years. The late Queen officially opened the science centre more than two decades ago, and we’ve also welcomed guests such as astronauts Tim Peake and Helen Sharman.
A place that entertains
Life is also home to bustling nightclubs and bars, and its Times Square space has been the site of an annual outdoor ice rink, music concerts and live screenings of major events like the King’s coronation. .
Find out more in our digital document
Explore the story of Life in our new exhibition
Find out how a run–down area of the city was transformed into the thriving science hub it is today in a new exhibition to celebrate our 25th birthday. It’s included in your science centre ticket.
Life stories
Blog
The greatest gift – Lindsey and Laura’s fertility journey
15 May 2025
Lindsey and Laura share their emotional journey through fertility treatment at the Centre for Life, from IVF to life with their daughters.
Blog
Empowering choices with genetic insights – Abbie Yorke’s journey
13 May 2025
A powerful story of how genetic testing at the Centre for Life helped Abbie Yorke take control of her future and significantly reduce her cancer risk.
Blog
From Explainer to Entrepreneur: Carl Dale’s Journey from Life to Leading a Tech Firm
13 May 2025
Carl Dale reflects on how his early days as a science explainer at Life helped shape his path to becoming CEO of North East tech firm Microbritt.
Blog
From Science Explainer to Science Teacher: How Life Shaped Lee Patterson’s Career
8 April 2025
Lee Patterson explains how his experience at Life shaped his career from science explainer to secondary school teacher.
Share your life story
Maybe a childhood visit sparked your love for science, or you’ve benefited from the groundbreaking research and treatments that happen on our site here.
Purpose and values
From the very beginning, Life has been working toward a greater purpose of helping people explore and enjoy science, delivered in line with our values.
Trustees and senior team
Our Trustees and senior leadership team ensure Life continues to fulfil its purpose, and makes science a key part of the region’s future.
Policies
See all of Life’s polices, from privacy, to equality, diversity and inclusion.
Work with us
By joining Life, you’ll be part of a team that values equality and diversity, excellence, active learning, sustainability and an entrepreneurial spirit.