The time capsule was laid to mark a major milestone in the development of the Sir Bobby Robson Institute, a £30m world-leading cancer clinical trials centre currently under construction at Newcastle's Freeman Hospital. It will remain sealed until at least 2076.

Among the items placed inside are a clinical paper on Rubraca® and an empty bottle of the ovarian cancer treatment, which was developed by Newcastle University chemists and first tested in clinical trials through the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre.

Transforming cancer research and care

A Newcastle University lab coat, stethoscope, lanyards and tote bag, together with a photograph of the University's School of Medicine MBBS Graduating Class of 2026 have also been included.

Professor Chris Day, Vice-Chancellor and President of Newcastle University, said: “The Sir Bobby Robson Institute will create an environment where Newcastle University researchers, clinicians and patients can work together to accelerate the discovery of new treatments and improve outcomes for people living with cancer.

“By expanding our capacity for world-leading research, the institute will further strengthen Newcastle’s position as an internationally recognised centre of excellence for cancer research and innovation.”

The time capsule ceremony at the Freeman Hospital comes as fundraising for the institute enters its final phase, with £29 million already raised and £1 million still needed to complete the project.

Funded by The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, part of Newcastle Hospitals Charity, and built by Newcastle Hospitals, the institute will bring together Newcastle University's world-leading cancer researchers, clinical trial specialists and cutting-edge technology under one roof.

Where innovation meets patient care

The three-storey institute will bring together the early phase cancer trials team at the current Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre and the late phase oncology and haematology research team, creating a unique environment where leading scientists, clinicians, industry partners and entrepreneurs can work side-by-side.

By strengthening the connection between research and patient care, it will accelerate the development of treatments and ensure more patients benefit from the latest advances in cancer medicine.

The new facility will allow teams to expand their work in cellular therapies, advanced imaging, radiotherapy and digital technologies, while providing the flexibility needed to support future breakthroughs.

The time capsule ceremony was held after this year's Great North Run.