Overview
A big thank you to all the speakers and participants at the Digital Healthcare Technology Accelerator launch event in Belfast on 8th September 2025. We were delighted to bring together expertise from academia, business, and clinical and civic sectors.
Prof Jim McLaughlin from the Centre for Digital Healthcare Technology opened the session. John Tully (Belfast City Council) shared aspirations for the programme to address Belfast Citizen Health and Wellness. Martin Naughton (Galvia) followed with best practices in Good Engineering for MedTech, and Dr Joanna Ward (UU) presented on Sensor Surfaces for Diagnostics. Zoe Bradley (UU) introduced Nano Sensors and Novel Diagnostic Systems, while Dr Robin Wilson (CMASS) addressed challenges and capabilities in Medical Device Manufacturing.
Dr Amir Faroch Payam (UU) discussed Precision Sensing, and Dr Rashid Kamal (UU) spoke on Secure AI in Healthcare. Dr John O’Connor (UU) explored Imaging and Modelling, and Dr Jonathan Acheson (UU) focused on Patient-Centric Models and Materials.
Dr Matthew Burns (UU) presented on Community-Based Monitoring, while Emma Dunn (HSC) highlighted Patient Engagement and Innovation. Dr Richard Gault (QUB) explored Computer Vision in Medical Imaging, and Sean Gilmour (ARC Regulatory) outlined Regulation and Market Access opportunities, particularly in AI.
Two parallel programmes were introduced: Ruth Holman highlighted Tech 4 Health, and Dr Stephen Liggett shared insights on Bio Data and Lab Resources available through the Future Medicines Institute.
The workshop concluded with Stephen McComb (PBIAA) outlining Next Steps to Support Ideas, Insight, and Collaborations, encouraging attendees to build partnerships ahead of upcoming opportunities and support.
