Cardiff Met showcases groundbreaking cardiovascular research during Senedd visit

9 November 2026

Cardiff Metropolitan University welcomed the Welsh Conservative Member for Casnewydd Islwyn, Natasha Asghar MS, to its Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Innovation and Development (CURIAD), highlighting the University’s leading role in advancing cardiovascular research and improving health outcomes across Wales.

A woman wearing a light blue lab coat looks into a microscope.

The visit, organised in partnership with British Heart Foundation Cymru, provided an opportunity to spotlight the innovative research taking place at CURIAD, a key partner in the National Cardiovascular Research Network (NCRN).

During the visit, representatives from British Heart Foundation Cymru outlined the significant impact of cardiovascular disease across Wales and discussed how research is helping to improve understanding, prevention and treatment of cardiovascular conditions.

Cardiff Metropolitan University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Rachael Langford, and Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation, Professor Sheldon Hanton, joined discussions on the University’s expanding research portfolio and its collaborative work with partners across the NCRN.

The visit demonstrated the breadth and impact of cardiovascular research being undertaken in Wales and highlighted the importance of collaboration between universities, charities, healthcare providers and policymakers in improving outcomes for patients and communities.

Vice-Chancellor of Cardiff Met, Professor Rachael Langford, said:

“We were delighted to welcome Natasha Asghar MS to Cardiff Met and to highlight the important work taking place within our Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Innovation and Development. Through collaboration with partners including British Heart Foundation Cymru and the National Cardiovascular Research Network, our researchers are helping to advance knowledge and develop innovative approaches to preventing and treating cardiovascular disease. This work has the potential to make a real difference to the health and wellbeing of people across Wales and beyond.”