The University of Liverpool’s research expertise in Biomarkers and Therapeutics has been showcased at an event attended by high-profile industry and public sector partners.
The one-day conference brought together University researchers with industry and specialist support organisations with a view to partnering and developing relationships.
The event attracted over 140 delegates from bioscience multinationals, such as Medimmune, Janssen Pharmaceuticals and Croda, local SMEs, such as MC Diagnostics, Biofortuna and Arcis Biotech and public sector partners including MRC Technology and Bionow
Professor Bob Burgoyne, Executive Pro Vice Chancellor for the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, said: “Partnership with industry and external organisations is a crucial way for us to develop the impact of our research and I was very pleased to see the success of this conference in bringing together so many of our academics with industry. I hope that many new collaborations will emerge as a result.”
Diagnostic approach
Over 30 University researchers presented to the audience and the event provided plenty of opportunity for networking. The final session focused on how to facilitate and secure funding to successfully translate research in this area into commercial products.
Presentations and posters featured diagnostic approaches for diseases as diverse as meningitis, Alzheimer’s, sepsis and cancers and improved, or new, therapeutics for HIV antivirals, pain relief, cancer and neurodegenerative disease.
Dr David Pardoe, Head of Growth Projects at MRC Technology,said: “Patients can only realise the value of new medicines and diagnostics when the fundamental science that underpins them is translated. Events such as the Liverpool Showcase are excellent vehicles to ensure this happens.”
Concept funding
The event built on the University’s applications to the Medical Research Council’s (MRC) Confidence in Concept funding scheme which supports the translation of biomedical research.
It was supported by Bionow the leading biomedical & life science membership organisation for Northern England. Bionow’s Annual Awards in November also provide Liverpool academics with the ideal opportunity to nominate and profile their work to leading external organisations.