Ulster University has launched the €9.1m Health Frontiers–Technology Innovation Centre, backed by PEACEPLUS, to accelerate digital health and MedTech innovation across Northern Ireland, Ireland, and Scotland.

Run under the Centre for Digital Healthcare Technology, Health Frontiers drives R&D in medical devices, AI, and digital health systems, supporting clinicians in embedding technology-driven care pathways.

The launch event in Belfast brought together academic, government, clinical, and industry stakeholders to mark the start of this cross-border collaboration. The initiative aims to strengthen research capacity, boost clinical adoption of advanced technologies, and foster innovation-led economic growth.

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald described it as a “positive development for digital innovation” that will enhance Life and Health Sciences, support SMEs, build skills, and create high-value jobs.

Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke TD highlighted that combining expertise in MedTech, AI, and digital health will improve patient outcomes and strengthen cross-border collaboration.

Health Frontiers unites 11 academic and clinical partners with 25 MedTech SMEs to develop over 25 products and processes. Its focus spans next-generation medical devices, AI-powered health systems, and the digital transformation of clinical practice.

Professor Jim McLaughlin, principal investigator, said the programme will “enhance cross border collaborations in order to drive economic, health, and social impact through innovation, job creation.”

Meanwhile, Professor Liam Maguire, PVC for Research, described it as a “powerful ecosystem” to accelerate technology adoption.

Now operational, Health Frontiers is set to become a regional hub for MedTech innovation across three jurisdictions.

Discover the full scope of Ulster University’s digital health transformation in the complete story.