Edge Hill University leads international project harnessing AI to revolutionise breast cancer treatment
Edge Hill University is proud to lead TRAPCAT (Transformative Artificial Intelligence Research for Personalised Cancer Treatment), an international collaborative project harnessing AI to revolutionise breast cancer care.
Launched in December 2025 and jointly funded for 15 months by the British Council and the STDF (Egypt), TRAPCAT focuses on AI in breast cancer histopathology and personalised treatment planning. The project is led by Professor Amr Ahmed, founder of the University’s Medical Image/Video Analysis (MIVA) research group and brings together a multidisciplinary team of pathologists and computer scientists.
Professor Amr Ahmed said: “It is my pleasure and honour to lead such a collaborative project, mainly for the patients benefit and helping towards improving the quality of life for affected people. It brings multidisciplinary and multi-countries team of experts; pathologists and Computer Scientists, together with specialised hospitals and institutes that closely care about patients and their families.
“The potential longer-term impact is invaluable, for patients, families, society, workforces and the overall health services and environment. All part of Edge Hill University’s mission towards benefiting the society. Very excited to see the outcomes, impact and for continued longer term collaboration.”
The partnership unites Edge Hill with Liverpool University Hospitals and key international collaborators, including the National Cancer Institute at Cairo University, Baheya Foundation Hospitals and the Applied Innovation Centre in Egypt, alongside the University of Nottingham Malaysia and Cancer Research Malaysia.
By leveraging resources already available in routine clinical practice, TRAPCAT aims to use AI to automatically generate specific histopathological images, known as “Virtual Staining”, without requiring additional tissue samples. This emerging approach will support tailored treatment planning, help patients avoid unnecessary interventions and enhance quality of life.
Edge Hill professor co-edits visionary new book preparing the next generation of doctors for the future
Edge Hill University’s Professor of Medical Education, John Sandars, has played a key role as co-editor of a major new book, Modern Medical Education: Preparing for the Future.
Designed specifically for students, academics, medical education practitioners and institutional leaders, the informative and insightful book provides a comprehensive overview of how medical training is set to develop amidst shifting healthcare demands and rapid technological advancements.
Professor Sandars collaborated on the publication alongside Shabih Zaidi (al-Sadiq International Virtual University, London) and Ali N. Zaidi (Adult Congenital Heart Diseases Center, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, USA).
Professor Sandars said:“Medical education must evolve at the same pace as healthcare itself. Modern Medical Education: Preparing for the Future offers educators practical ways to embrace technological change, respond to global health challenges and develop compassionate, adaptable doctors who can thrive in an increasingly complex world.”
Featuring 41 chapters written by internationally renowned authors, the book explores the challenges future doctors may face and offers strategies to respond to global healthcare developments. It provides a clear vision of the future, discussing potential barriers and enabling factors to help educators successfully transform their practices.
In addition to supporting medical educators and students, the publication offers valuable insights for directors of medical education institutions, policymakers and funders, significantly contributing to global discussions on the future of health professions education.
Find out more about Modern Medical Education: Preparing for the Future
Edge Hill University celebrates research excellence and community impact at inaugural showcase
It was a day of celebration for Edge Hill University as the Research Office hosted its inaugural Research Celebration and Showcase.
Over 100 attendees, including regional partners from across the North West, came together on campus to explore the University’s diverse research achievements. Guests discovered more about pioneering projects in fields such as mental health and wellbeing, artificial intelligence and technology, memory and healthy ageing and sport.
The event also featured the Recognising Outstanding Achievements in Research Awards, shining a spotlight on the dedicated research community and celebrating exceptional contributions to the University’s thriving research culture.
Professor George Talbot, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research & Knowledge Exchange) at Edge Hill University, said:
“We were absolutely delighted to welcome colleagues, researchers and regional partners to our inaugural Research Celebration and Showcase. This event was a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on the breadth and depth of research taking place across Edge Hill, celebrating not only our impactful projects, but the dedication and expertise of the researchers behind them.
“The awards allowed us to formally recognise and thank those individuals whose work is making a genuine difference. It is this vibrant and collaborative research culture that continues to drive Edge Hill forward and I am incredibly proud of everyone who contributed to making the day such a success.”
Edge Hill University gym transforms student wellbeing through Technogym partnership
Edge Hill University’s sports centre gym has undergone a major transformation, resulting in a powerful boost in student engagement and wellbeing following a new partnership with global fitness leader Technogym.
Originally built in 2015, the fitness suite required an upgrade to match modern fitness trends and evolving user expectations. Following a detailed analysis of 3,000 active members, which highlighted a rising demand for strength training and functional fitness spaces, the University invested in a state-of-the-art refurbishment.
As a campus university, Edge Hill recognises that physical activity is vital to shaping the student experience. Beyond leisure and competitive sport, the facility drives crucial wellbeing programmes, including staff and student referral schemes.
“Data shows that students who engage with our facilities are 6% more likely to stay at university,” said Sam Smith, Fitness Manager at Edge Hill Sports Centre. “We don’t just want to sell memberships; we want to create meaningful experiences that support wellbeing.”
The upgraded space features a modern layout powered by Technogym’s cutting-edge equipment, including dedicated plate-loaded Pure Strength zones, versatile Dual Adjustable Pulleys, and high-performance Skillrun treadmills.
Crucially, the gym also integrates Technogym’s digital ecosystem, such as the AI-powered Technogym Checkup tool and the Technogym App, allowing students and staff to track progress, set goals and stay connected across campus.
The results have been immediate. Footfall reached a ten-year high with 9,980 visits recorded in February, outperforming previous years and demonstrating the clear impact of the refurbishment on student retention and success.
“Technogym are streets ahead in equipment innovation, digital integration, and user experience,” added Andrew Hampson, Sports Services Manager at Edge Hill Sports Centre. “They understand university spaces, helping this partnership run like a true collaboration to create a space that our campus community can truly thrive in.”
August 24, 2026
