International network to drive innovation in regenerative medicine launched by the University of Brighton

The University of Brighton has joined forces with AMREF International University to launch the International Network for Knowledge Exchange and Innovation Transfer in Regenerative Medicine and Medical Devices. This pioneering network seeks to enhance health and wellbeing worldwide by fostering collaboration, sharing expertise, and advancing cutting-edge medical technologies.

The launch follows a visit in December 2024 from a senior delegation representing Kenya’s Ministry of Health, AMREF International University, and the Surgical Society of Kenya. The delegation explored the University of Brighton’s research facilities, learned about innovative work on wound care dressings and engaged in discussions on collaborative projects addressing critical clinical challenges.

Professor Rusi Jaspal, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research and Knowledge Exchange) at the University of Brighton, said: "This network represents a significant step forward in bridging international expertise to tackle pressing health challenges through regenerative medicine and medical devices. By sharing knowledge and working together across continents, we can accelerate innovation and improve patient outcomes globally. We warmly invite researchers, healthcare professionals, and industry partners to join us at the launch event to discover how collaboration can transform lives."

Left to right: Professors Joachim Osur, Matteo Santin and Rusi Jaspal

The network aims to attract members from Africa, Europe, and beyond, co-creating solutions and establishing best practices through shared learning. Following the launch, a series of three webinars will maintain momentum throughout the year, promoting ongoing dialogue and collaboration.

The launch event will take place on Tuesday 17 June 2025, from 11.30–13.30 (Kenya time) and 9.30–11.30 (UK time), hosted both in Kenya for invited guests and online open to all. This event will showcase the impact of the partnership so far and outline future opportunities for other organisations to get involved.

Professor Joachim Osur, Vice-Chancellor of AMREF International University, added: "The establishment of this network marks an exciting opportunity. By combining our strengths, we can foster innovation that addresses local and global health challenges, including support for the growing number of people with disabilities, improving access to healthcare and skilling up more healthcare workers. We can build evidence about best practice on solving real time health problems and inspire lasting health change. This collaborative platform will enable us to share knowledge, enhance training, and develop medical technologies that benefit communities in Africa and beyond."

Professor Matteo Santin, Director of the Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Devices at the University of Brighton, emphasises the impact of this collaboration: “Through a project led by Dr Leonard Henry Joseph and Ms Christine Muya in introducing manual handling expertise into occupational health therapy in Kenya, our work has already influenced training, research and curricula, equipping the next generation of healthcare practitioners with vital skills. Now, we are keen to widen our scope, learning from each other to address the most pressing issues together.”

You can book to attend the launch event here