For immediate use : Monday September 19th, 2005.

Wellcome Trust sets sights for next five years

The Wellcome Trust has announced plans to invest over £2bn during the next five years to support biomedical research.

As well as continuing its long-term commitment to basic research it will increase its support for clinical research, technology transfer and promoting public engagement and awareness of the social and ethical issues of research. These aims are laid out in the new Strategic Plan 2005-2010, “Making a Difference”, which is unveiled today (Monday, September 19th).

The international programme will include continued support for units in SE Asia, Kenya, South Africa and Malawi where research is carried out into a number of serious diseases, including malaria, HIV/AIDS, TB, typhoid, tetanus and meningitis. Partnerships will be on the agenda, including a capacity-building initiative in Malawi and Kenya with the Department for International Development.

A commitment to engaging the public with science and scientific issues will also be a key aspect of work over the next five years. Refurbishment of the Wellcome Building will provide three galleries, the Wellcome Library, a flexible events space and other facilities devoted to exploring the science, history and culture of medicine.

Dr Mark Walport, Director of the Trust said :

“Over the next five years we will build on the progress made so far, continuing our commitment to invest in excellence by funding the best scientists to conduct outstanding research

“We will take a long-term view, making a sustained commitment to research that will improve our understanding of health and disease. The Wellcome Trust will retain a level of financial flexibility which will enable us to react quickly to unexpected developments and new ideas.

“There is usually a long interval between important scientific discoveries and impact on human health.The Trust has built its reputation by supporting first class, long-term biomedical research that ultimately has the potential to improve health for all.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

The Wellcome Trust is an independent research funding charity established in 1936 under the will of tropical medicine pioneer Sir Henry Wellcome.The Trust’s mission is to foster and promote research with the aim of improving human and animal health.

www.wellcome.ac.uk

Media Enquiries to:

Barry Gardner, Media Office.

0207 611 7329.