Northern Ireland

W5 Belfast opens Ireland’s first attraction exploring human body

Little Matilda Janssen (1) tries out giant game of operation at the New Medical Lab Zone at W5 in Belfast  Picture Mal McCann.
Little Matilda Janssen (1) tries out giant game of operation at the New Medical Lab Zone at W5 in Belfast Picture Mal McCann. Little Matilda Janssen (1) tries out giant game of operation at the New Medical Lab Zone at W5 in Belfast Picture Mal McCann.

IRELAND'S first attraction exploring the human body allows visitors to use advanced imaging technologies to see what goes on inside.

The new MED-Lab at W5 in Belfast offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the amazing systems that keeping their bodies alive.

The only exhibition of its kind in Ireland, among the intriguing interactive exhibits is the chances to learn how the scientists discover and develop medicines and diagnostic tests for patients.

Among the surprising facts is that the human bone can be four times stronger than concrete.

Created in association with Almac Group, MED-Lab aims to enhance STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) knowledge and understanding among the next generation of budding scientists through interactive learning.

It is funded by the £30 million Inspiring Science Fund which supports science centres across the UK.

Eric Porter, chair of the Odyssey Trust said: "Enhancing education and scientific knowledge, MED-Lab is an innovative and intriguing investigation into our most prized possession - our body

"We are delighted to unveil the first of eight new innovative zones in W5, which we know will be hugely popular with our visitors."

Alan Armstrong, Almac Group CEO, said it is a privilege to be a partner in such an exciting project.

"As a business employing over 5,000 individuals globally, our success depends on the talent and skills of our most important asset, our people, it is therefore crucial that we continue to invest in the next generation.

"Almac is dedicated to advancing knowledge and interest in STEM subjects and sharing our rich history and work carried out in the medicine development lifecycle for patients globally."

Alex Lyle (6) at the New Medical Lab Zone at W5 in Belfast  Picture Mal McCann.
Alex Lyle (6) at the New Medical Lab Zone at W5 in Belfast Picture Mal McCann. Alex Lyle (6) at the New Medical Lab Zone at W5 in Belfast Picture Mal McCann.