The company, based on Wessington Way, has been recognised for its work on the IVF process that has helped to increase the viability of embryos. The Vitro Safe technology consists of interlinked incubators or workstations designed to provide comprehensive control during laboratory processing of embryos and stem cells.

Dr Mary Herbert, scientific director at Vitro Safe Systems said: “It is a great honour to have won this award. There are a lot of people doing very innovative things but to get to the commercial stage is a huge challenge, especially in today’s tough climate. I would also like to thank RTC for their continued support of Vitro Safe Systems.”

Mike Asher, CEO of Cels, commented: “Vitro Safe Systems a worthy winner of the Innovation Award. The new technology will help improve the IVF process for thousands of people and will also help to put the North East on the map as leaders in embryonic stem cell development.”

The Business for Life Awards celebrates excellence in the North East’s healthcare industry, which contributes £8 billion to the region’s economy. They recognise the outstanding achievements of the 172,000 people who are employed in the sector in the region whilst cultivating future business success.