A WORLD-CLASS research network which will bring together experts to tackle key challenges facing the marine environment was unveiled yesterday.

It is hoped the marineNewcastle network, at Newcastle University, will reinforce its reputation for excellence in marine science and engineering.

Project coordinator Professor Tony Clare said: “The North-East’s marine connection dates back to the middle ages, when the Tyne became one of the main trading rivers in the country. The subsequent growth of the shipbuilding industry served to reinforce the North-East’s reputation as a major centre of maritime activity.

“Newcastle University, with its wide-ranging research interests in many aspects of marine science and technology, and its research collaborations around the globe, is uniquely placed to position the North-East at the heart of the maritime world once again.”

A research vessel has been designed by staff and students, and is being built by North-East ship builders Alnmaritec.

Professor Richard Birmingham, head of the School of Marine Science and Technology at Newcastle University, said: “In the fields of marine science and technology, Newcastle University is one of the premier academic institutions in the world.”