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Our Evolving Story

Collage representing different area of Centre for Life to celebrate the 25th Birthday.

In 2025, we celebrated our 25th birthday.

Since opening in 2000, Life has been a place where people have come to discover the wonders of science – from young children catching their first glimpse of the Earth from space, to researchers working on life-changing treatments.

To mark 25 years of Life, we took a moment to reflect on what has been achieved, creating a special document exploring Life’s impact, alongside a short film that captures what this milestone meant to us.

We also collected stories from people whose lives have been shaped by Life – from those who have benefited from the research and treatment that takes place on our site, to those who worked here or visited the science centre and were inspired to pursue a career in STEM.

 

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Overhead photo of The International Centre for Life, lit up on an evening.
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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.

Mother And son completing hands-on science activity in Experiment Zone.

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.

School student exploring exciting STEM career in Life Science Centre's Space Zone.

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.

Young adults enjoying Centre for Life's Game On exhibit back in 2019.

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.

Research scientist working in a laboratory at Centre for Life.

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.

Times Square during a busy live music concert, part of The International Centre for Life

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

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Life stories

Amy Lucas in Centre for Life laboratory
Blog
A Life journey from fertility treatment to inspiring future scientists  

17 June 2025

Born thanks to fertility treatment on our site, Amy Lucas shares her 25-year journey with Life – a story that marks a truly unique connection.

Blog
Michael Wright: 25 years at Life

9 June 2025

Dr Michael Wright is a consultant clinical geneticist and joint medical director at Newcastle Hospitals.

Lindsey with parter Laura and four children, who were born thanks to fertility treatment at the NHS Fertility Centre, which operates at The Centre for Life.
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.

Abbie Yorke
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.

See all Life stories
Exterior photo of Centre for Life, showing our partner logos, NHS and Newcastle University.

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.

Learn more
Group of visitors watching a live show in Space Zone.

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. 

Meet the team
Two Businesspeople Analyzing Document

Policies

See all of Life’s polices, from privacy, to equality, diversity and inclusion.

Read all policies
Two school students enjoying a rocket building activity with the support of an Explainer inside Life Science Centre.

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.

See latest vacancies