A NEW £13 million research project will see Lancaster University explore how cutting-edge design research can create "a healthier, more prosperous and sustainable world".

The three-year Beyond Imagination project will launch in August and create 33 new jobs.

The Government is investing £7.6m as part of a major boost to research and development funding. Lancaster is the only recipient in the North West.

The university said its ImaginationLancaster design research laboratory will expand its reach and expertise through exciting initiatives such as the UK’s first "dark design lab" examining nocturnal urban activity on health and wellbeing.

Making the funding announcement, universities and science minister Chris Skidmore said: “Pushing the boundaries of knowledge and conquering new innovations are what our universities are known for the world over. This programme led by Lancaster University will look to design the products and services of the future that can best support people.

“The Expanding Excellence in England Fund will support projects throughout England to master new and developing areas of research and industry.

“Made possible through our record R&D spend delivered by our modern Industrial Strategy, the investment will support researchers to develop solutions and opportunities for UK researchers and businesses.”

Beyond Imagination is one of only 13 awards made out of 130 applications from across the UK.

The university said the project would bring "fresh perspectives on the real world focusing on five key themes: home and living; communities and the public sector; factory and workplaces; cities and urban; and population and policy".

Lancaster University is providing £5.6m funding.