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Who we are

The International Centre for Life is a thriving science hub and part of the cultural fabric of the North East.

A Newcastle University research scientist working onsite at The International Centre for Life.

A unique circle of science

Life is a place where educators, researchers, clinicians and businesses work side-by-side on one site. It’s a unique concept, unlike anything else in the world.

It’s benefited thousands of people, in so many different ways. Babies brought into the world by groundbreaking fertility treatment. Children who visit the science centre, and see the world (and the stars) like never before. Researchers and clinicians whose work is helping people live better lives.

For more than two decades, it’s been the place where science comes to life.

Life Science Centre logo
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Amazing things happen here

Life changing medical treatment happens at The International Centre for Life, including ocular surgery.

Life changing medical treatments

Clinicians working at Life have made international headlines. Advances in genetics and regenerative medicine have enhanced the lives of people living with genetic and neuromuscular diseases.

Research scientist using a pipette with brightly coloured liquids in a laboratory at The International Centre for Life.

Pioneering research

Researchers working on-site at Life have advanced the world’s understanding of how to treat cancers, address fertility, and manage genetic and neuromuscular diseases.

Mother and new born, who have benefited from the pioneering work of the NHS Fertility Centre at The International Centre for Life.

Fertility treatment

Thousands of babies have been born thanks to the pioneering work of the NHS Fertility Centre, whose techniques have been adopted worldwide.

Mother and son completing a hands-on making activity at Life Science Centre.

Events and family fun

We welcome around 250,000 people a year to our science centre, bringing science to life through exhibitions, activities and events. Our site also plays host to concerts and live events – from gigs to screenings of major sporting events.

Onsite partners

Life’s on-site partners continue to do life-enhancing work, both in research and clinical care. The Life site is home to 30 research groups and more than 200 research, diagnostic laboratory and clinical staff, working for organisations such as Newcastle University, the NHS Northern Genetics Service, and the NHS Newcastle Fertility Centre.

Newcastle University is a valued onsite partner at The International Centre for Life
The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals Foundation Trust is a valued onsite partner at The International Centre for Life

Meet the team

Life is about collaboration. Hundreds of researchers, clinicians, educators, business people and science communicators work together to help people explore science – and discover its relevance to their own lives.

Fiona Cruickshank OBE. the International Centre for Life's Chair of the Board, pictured in front of the science centre.
Fiona Cruickshank OBE
Chair of the Board

As a North East entrepreneur who founded a successful pharmaceutical manufacturing business, Fiona brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the Life team.

Linda Conlon MBE DL, International Centre for Life's Chief Executive, pictured in Life Science Centre's Space Zone.
Linda Conlon MBE DL
Chief Executive

Part of the original team who transformed a derelict Newcastle area into a thriving science hub, Linda is now one of the most respected figures of the science engagement world.

Our Trustees and Senior Team

Our Trustees and Senior Team ensure Life continues to fulfil its purpose, and makes science a key part of the region’s future.

Exterior image of Life Science Centre's logo, displayed at the entrance of the building.

Latest news

Animated dinosaur meeting visitors during live science show at Life Science Centre.
What's on
Dinosaurs back at Life Science Centre for one week only! 

16 October 2024

T-Rex and baby dinosaurs are about to stalk Life this October half term in a show that will take families on an exciting journey to prehistoric times.

News
Life launches World Space Week with key regional players in space industry  

4 October 2024

Today, we launched World Space Week with North East Mayor Kim McGuinness and Elaine Scott from Space North East England.

News
Prestigious International Accolade for Life’s Chief Executive Linda Conlon 

30 September 2024

Linda Conlon, Chief Executive of the International Centre for Life in Newcastle, has been honoured with the ultimate accolade from the ASTC.

News
Is it illegal to save our planet?

18 September 2024

The latest Science Speakeasy debate, Climate Criminals, is on 19 September, and examines the very topical issue of environmental activism.

A Life Science Centre Explainer at work in the Making Studios, helping two young visitors with a hands-on activity.

Jobs at Life

By joining Life, you’ll be part of a team that values equality and diversity, excellence, active learning, sustainability and an entrepreneurial spirit.

Young female Life Science Centre visitor stood in front of The Sphere, with arms outstretched as if they are holding the Earth.

Our climate approach

As the North East’s biggest science centre, Life is committed to helping audiences make sense of complex, controversial and often scary subjects, like climate science.

The Life team on stage at the North East Tourism Awards 2023.

Our year in review

Over the last year, Life has continued its diverse purpose, to entertain, educate and inspire many different audiences. Find out about everything that’s happened in our Annual Review.

Community group taking part in an activity in Life Science Centre's Making Studios.

Schools and community engagement

One of Life’s founding principles has been to bring science to different groups and communities. It’s something we’re passionate about. Read about how we’re making that happen. 

Exterior photo of The International Centre's for Life's Biomedical West entrance.

Our partners and supporters

Our work at Life is possible thanks to our collaborations with partners and supporters across the North East and beyond.