The Duchess of Cornwall is set to open a new research facility in Aberdeen.

Camilla, chancellor of the University of Aberdeen, will open a laboratory at its Foresterhill campus on Wednesday.

The laboratory forms part of the university's Rowett Institute, which has been at the forefront of nutritional science for more than a century.

During her visit, the Duchess will tour the Human Nutrition Unit, meeting staff, students and volunteers to hear about some of the research taking place at the facility.

Current research includes whether the taste buds of babies can be influenced while they are still in the womb, if it is possible to stop unhealthy food choices becoming a habit, and the possibility of creating a healthier Scotch pie.

Rowett Institute director Professor Peter Morgan said: "I am absolutely delighted that we are officially opening this wonderful new building.

"The Rowett Institute has been a leading force in nutrition research for many years, and as time has gone on the importance of creating a world-class facility to match our global reputation has been paramount.

"An essential part of being able to provide this fantastic new building was the underpinning funding the Rowett receives for research from the Scottish Government, specifically from the Rural and Environment Science and Analytical Services Directorate, and we are hugely grateful for their support."

Deputy First Minister John Swinney added: "I am delighted that the Scottish Government has helped to enable these new state-of-the-art facilities through our investment of £12 million.

"Aberdeen is already at the very cutting edge of food and health-related research, contributing to Scotland's global reputation for research excellence and attracting some of the brightest and best researchers from across the world.

"The Rowett Institute's move into the University of Aberdeen and the establishment of a purpose-built Human Nutrition Unit, the most advanced facility of its kind in the UK, will build on this success, strengthening its capacity to pioneer new research and increasing its international competitiveness and opportunities for collaboration."