Anthony recently visited the Heart and Lung Research Institute (HLRI) to understand more about the new facility.
The Institute, a joint project between Royal Papworth Hospital and the University of Cambridge, was officially opened last month by HRH The Duchess of Gloucester and will bring together the highest concentration of heart and lung researchers from academia, healthcare and industry in Europe.
Developing new techniques, undertaking high-impact research, and harnessing cutting-edge technology, those working at the site will be looking to combat cardiovascular and respiratory diseases - some of the world's biggest killers.
Guided by Professor John Wallwork, chairman of Royal Papworth Hospital, and incoming Chief Executive Eilish Midlane, Mr Browne toured the Institute and spoke to staff already using space in the state-of-the-art facility. This included a look inside the Clinical Research Facility, a multi-bedded ward with space for 10 inpatients at a time to take part in ground-breaking clinical studies and trials.
In addition to financial support from the University of Cambridge, the HLRI has been made possible by £30m in funding from the UK Research Partnership Investment Fund, £10m from the British Heart Foundation and additional contributions from the Wolfson Foundation, Royal Papworth Hospital Charity and the Cystic Fibrosis Trust.
Commenting, Mr Browne said: “I have no doubt great things will come out of the Heart and Lung Research Institute.
“It was fantastic to see how the facility has been designed with everyone in mind – from state-of-the-art laboratories right through to clean, modern, clinical surroundings for patients. I was very glad to finally be able to visit, and look forward to seeing it filled with researchers, clinicians, and scientists. Truly, there is no limit to what can be achieved here - it will be transformational for South Cambs, and hopefully the world.”