The Exeter Initiative for Science and Technology (ExIST), a subgroup of Exeter Chamber of Commerce, hosted its quarterly event at the new Living Systems Institute on the University of Exeter campus.
The brand-new world-class building, which the University of Exeter has invested £50m into will pioneer novel approaches to understanding diseases and how they can be better diagnosed.
According to Mark Goodwin, Deputy Vice Chancellor (External Engagement) of the University of Exeter, who gave a welcome at the start of the event, the institution is a leading employer and contributor to the economy and last year had an £1.1bn economic impact for the South West with its £450m turnover, employing 4,500 employees and retaining 21,000 students.
The event, which was attended by 90 business people and academics was host to four innovative South West based speakers covering the topic of Translational Science.
Professor Chris Thornton, Director of Isca Diagnostics, gave a whistle stop talk through his scientific research and business model from initial conception to protecting intellectual property, to CE Marking a diagnostic test kit, through to commercial launch.
Oliver Blackwell, CEO of Clinical Design provided a snapshot of how he, as a designer by trade, has collaborated with academics and medical professionals to bring his cost saving medical device to market.
Professor Adrian Harris, Executive Medical Director of Royal Devon & Exeter NHS Foundation Trust updated that research and innovation is now a key priority for the hospital. The RD&E, a £500m turnover institution, employs 8,000 staff and provides healthcare to over 500,000 people and now needs cost-effective innovations to ultimately improve treatment for patients.
Dr Olivia Champion, CEO of BioSystems Technology, a University of Exeter spin-off company, is already successfully developing the use of research grade larvae to help to reduce the number of experimental mammals used in pre-clinical trials. Dr Champion said: “I was delighted to talk at the latest ExIST event at the LSI at University of Exeter. It was great to share my journey of stepping out of the laboratory and into a business setting. It’s been an amazing journey over the last two years with highs and lows along the way but I have never regretted moving out of academia into business and I now actively support others who are interested in commercialising their own research.”
Dr Paul Sheppard, of ExIST, said: “ExIST’s 25th quarterly public meeting explored a great subject focus at a magnificent venue with which to celebrate this ‘Silver Anniversary’. I am truly appreciative of all who have contributed towards the excellence of the event which was much enjoyed and valued by all who attended.”
