A research centre involved in various projects across Norfolk has received a national award and £500,000 for its work.

The John Innes Centre beat 30 other national research institutions – including Oxford and Cambridge – to win the Excellence with Impact award.

It follows the centre's bioscience research into tackling fish deaths on the Norfolk Broads and its work on ash dieback.

The centre, based at Norwich Research Park, was also recognised for its work to encourage more women to get involved in science.

Prof Dale Sanders, JIC director, said: 'This prize is testament to the enthusiasm and passion of our scientists and their desire to realise the impact from JIC research.

'In addition to delivering excellent world-leading science, we must ensure our work translates into tangible benefits for the economy and society.'

The centre has now received £500,000 from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, which ran the awards.

It will use the money to further its scientific impact in Africa, where its PhD students have been undertaking peer-to-peer mentoring.

The centre was also commended for the impact of its research into developing plant vaccines and its scientific partnerships with African institutes.

More recently it has been involved in encouraging young women to pursue careers in STEMM subjects.

A spokesman for the centre added: 'Science offers fantastic career opportunities and it is tragic that few young women are aware of these or have the opportunity to explore the career opportunities.

'The newly launched Young STEMM Awards will play a pivotal role in reversing this trend both regionally and nationally.'

Have you won a national award? Call Luke Powell on 01603 772684