A new Centre for Materials Discovery has opened at Liverpool University, providing cutting edge R&D expertise and facilities for companies in the energy, biomedical, automotive, aerospace, electronics and manufacturing industries.

The centre offers businesses the opportunity to improve their research and development programmes through the enhancement of existing products or the creation of new materials.

The centre was opened by NWDA science director Dr George Baxter and Professor Drummond Bone, who is the university's vice chancellor.

Professor Andy Cooper, who heads the centre, said: "This is groundbreaking science and will enhance Merseyside's reputation as a centre of scientific research.

"Dedicated to knowledge transfer it will create fantastic opportunities for local businesses as well as career opportunities for graduates."

The centre has been funded by the university, the NWDA and European Objective One.