SCIENTISTS from Essex University are working on a series of high-tech projects which could provide new treatment options for the coronavirus and hopefully help save lives across the globe.

The university’s Life Science team is investigating a number of different strategies to block Covid-19 from infecting patients’ lungs and reduce the inflammatory response to the virus.

If successful, the university says the projects will provide new treatment options for the disease.

Scientists are also working in partnership with the School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering (SCSEE) on a groundbreaking nanotechnology approach to coronavirus treatment.

The work builds on the partnership between the university, Public Health England and the East Suffolk and North Essex Foundation Trust, which runs Colchester Hospital.

The School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering and Department of Mathematical Sciences are also using data analytics, data modelling and robotics work to investigate how the virus behaves.

Prof Christine Raines, pro-vice chancellor for research, said: “We have a wide range of expertise in our departments and schools we are putting into action to address the scientific and social challenges we face in dealing with Covid-19.

“Our researchers have responded really positively and a range of projects are either underway or will start imminently.

“In relation to our biomedical research, work on Covid-19 has already started, and we are submitting bids to UK Research and Innovation and other funders who are prioritising support for Covid-19 research.

“We are sure the breadth and depth of knowledge of our researchers will enable them to make a significant contribution to the challenges we face with this global pandemic.”

The university’s Human Rights Centre has been instrumental in launching public discussion platform RightOn.

Its School of Law is collating and tracking changes to the UK’s legal system and the Essex Autonomy Project is exploring issues around the care of vulnerable residents.

Search @ResearchEssex on Twitter for updates on research at the university.