During the development of the concept of the Centre for Health Science, the subject of Diabetes was chosen as a topic around which to develop a dedicated research institute. Diabetes was selected as it is one of the most common chronic diseases and is becoming more common in our population. Also, already there is considerable local clinical and research and development expertise in the subject in the Inverness area. The concept has been maturing over the last two years and plans have been drawn and agreed to accommodate the Highland Diabetes Institute in a 3-floor, purpose designed, building.

 
Although there are many combined clinical and academic diabetes units in the UK, as far as we know this is the first one to also include a company with a commercial interest in diabetes. The building will accommodate:

• NHS Diabetes Centre on the ground floor.

• University of the Highlands and Islands Department of Diabetes on the first floor.
  

• Lifescan Diabetes Research Institute on the second floor.

It is expected that future collaboration opportunities will be developed involving at least two if not all parties.

 
A Clinical Research Facility will also be located on the ground floor. Although this facility will initially be mostly used for diabetes research, it will also be available for clinical research on any appropriate topic.