Groundbreaking environmental chamber launched at University of Brighton with Wolfson Foundation visit

Brighton has officially launched its new state-of-the-art environmental chamber, marking a major step forward in climate health research and student learning.

The launch was celebrated with a special visit from the Wolfson Foundation – the prestigious organisation that awarded a £325,000 grant to support the project. Among the visitors were Paul Ramsbottom OBE, CEO of the Wolfson Foundation, and Graham Peters, Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Sussex, who toured the facility alongside senior university staff.

The environmental chamber, one of only a handful in the UK, gives researchers and students the unique ability to simulate extreme conditions – from -20°C to 50°C heat, different levels of humidity, and altitudes nearly as high as Mount Kilimanjaro. It is already playing a key role in advancing research on how the human body responds to climate extremes and in developing strategies to protect vulnerable populations.

The visit showcased the University’s leading role in environmental health research, as well as the new hands-on learning opportunities now available to students through the facility.

During the event, undergraduate and postgraduate students, PhD researchers, technical instructors, and academic staff presented their latest projects, addressing critical health challenges such as heat stress in older and vulnerable populations, altitude sickness, the effects of extreme heat on women’s health, and more.

During the visit, attendees stepped inside the chamber – set to a balmy 35°C – to take part in a live demonstration on cooling techniques using ice pops, showcasing the kind of practical solutions Brighton researchers are exploring in response to global warming and extreme heat.

Based in the University’s Environmental Extremes Lab, the newly opened chamber is already transforming teaching and research. It gives students hands-on experience with the kind of real-world conditions increasingly faced due to climate change. Outreach sessions with local colleges are also planned, offering local young people a chance to experience the chamber and learn how climate change is reshaping global health.

Dr Neil Maxwell, who leads the Environmental Extremes Lab at the University of Brighton, said: “It was a real privilege to welcome the Wolfson Foundation and other distinguished guests to see first-hand the impact of their support. The environmental chamber is an invaluable resource that bridges the gap between theoretical study and practical, real-world application. It allows our students to not only understand but to actively contribute to critical research that directly addresses the health impacts of climate change.”

The Environmental Extremes Lab itself has over 25 years of expertise in this field, with research that has influenced public health guidance and shaped best practice in sectors like emergency services, sport, and elderly care.

As climate change continues to drive more people to live, work, and travel in extreme environments, the lab’s work – and the students contributing to it – is more relevant than ever.

Learn about studying sport and exercise at the University of Brighton.

Take a tour of our sport science labs with technician Bill: