Film star Brian Cox opens university’s new Visual Effects Research Lab

Hollywood star and Dundee University rector Brian Cox opened a major new laboratory in the city this week.

He cut the ribbon at the Visual Effects Research Lab (VERL), which brings scientists, artists, clinicians and film makers together.

The lab at Duncan of Jordanstone College has been created to produce cutting-edge visual effects and will offer the latest technology.

VERL project leader Peter Richardson said Cox was the “perfect guest” to open the facility.

He said: “The initial three-year project will challenge established notions of visual thought. The skills of artists and other practitioners in the creative professions can be of immense value in a wide range of other areas.

“I am sure that work carried out at VERL will go on to have a significant impact in scientific and medical research and industry.”

It is part of the North Sea Screen Partners Project which enjoyed Oscar success this year with In a Better World.

The lab also offers editing, animation and visualisation software.

Councillor Will Dawson said: “We are delighted that the lab has been developed in Dundee and adds to the city’s reputation in games and digital media.”