Life welcomes new trustees

Newcastle science centre The International Centre for Life (Life) has appointed Dr Fozia Saleem and Dr Owen Burbidge to its board of trustees.

Dr Saleem, chief executive of contract research organisation Magnitude Biosciences, brings 20 years’ experience in the global life sciences sector spanning research and development, contract research and commercialisation.

She said: “I was the first in my family to go to university, so I had to push through a few glass ceilings, and I really think it’s so important to break STEM barriers among children and raise aspirations. 

“That is what Life excels at, my 10-year-old son and eight-year-old daughter love coming here and I am really looking forward to building on the excellent work Life has done to date.”

Dr Burbidge, a Newcastle City councillor and cabinet member for inclusive economy and skills, also works at Innovate UK Business Connect, supporting life sciences businesses across the UK.

Dr Burbridge added: “Life has such an important part to play within the city, region, nationally and internationally to help inspire children from all different backgrounds, making people realise that you don’t have to come from a STEM pedigree to be able to access science – and I’m looking forward to being part of that.”

The pair will help shape Life’s strategic direction as the organisation continues to develop its long-term vision.

Their appointments strengthen the Life’s board with expertise across life sciences, research, innovation and public policy, supporting the organisation's mission to inspire curiosity in science and contribute to the growth of the North East’s life sciences sector.

Fiona Cruikshank, chair of the board at Life, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Fozia and Owen. 

“Collectively, they bring a wealth of experience, expertise and fresh perspectives that will be invaluable.”

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