The University of Strathclyde’s Centre for Medicines Manufacturing (CMAC), a world-class centre of excellence for medicines manufacturing research in the heart of Glasgow, has entered a strategic partnership with The Glasgow School of Art (GSA). This collaboration will develop interactive case studies using Augmented Reality (AR) technology in order to enhance training, research and collaboration.

Leveraging the advanced capabilities of state-of-the-art Microsoft HoloLens 2 mixed-reality headsets, this initiative will create applications that foster real-time learning and collaboration while also aiming to reduce carbon emissions. This partnership builds on previous work in virtual reality (VR) and seeks to maximise the impact of CMAC’s Made Smarter Innovation Digital Medicines Manufacturing (DM²) programme and UK-RPIF Net Zero pilot.

The initial phase, driven by user-inspired research, focuses on developing platforms for project communication, training on advanced process technologies, and real-time data visualisation. This will allow researchers to map data and models onto physical equipment, enhancing their understanding of complex phenomena as decisions unfold.

This ambitious venture utilises GSA’s expertise in emerging technologies, including computer science, extended realities, and 3D modelling. Prof. Paul Chapman, Director of Emerging Technology at GSA, expressed excitement about integrating cutting-edge XR technology into CMAC’s laboratories, promising groundbreaking innovations that will transform medicines manufacturing.

About CMAC:

CMAC is a world-class centre of excellence for medicines manufacturing research, training and translation. Working in partnership with industry, CMAC’s goal is to transform the development and manufacture of medicines. Building on our long-standing partnerships with a wide range of pharmaceutical manufacturers, technology providers and leading universities, we have established the flagship UKRI co-funded programme: the Made Smarter Innovation – Digital Medicines Manufacturing Research Centre (DM²). This is a 3.5-year programme that will accelerate the adoption of industrial digital technologies (IDTs) in the pharma sector across five core Platforms covering data, advanced manufacturing, digital QC, patient centric supply and networking and skills. DM² connects a leading multidisciplinary team of researchers across Strathclyde, Loughborough and Cambridge universities with key digital technology providers, medicines manufacturers and healthcare providers, to drive a digital transformation in medicines manufacturing.

Learn more at: https://cmac.ac.uk/