By Jackie Watson, Marketing Officer, Northern Accelerator
The Northern Life Sciences Gathering at The Catalyst in Newcastle brought together leaders from across the North East life sciences sector and beyond, highlighting the region’s growing reputation as a hub for research commercialisation, biotech innovation and high‑growth spinouts. It was an inspiring day that showcased the collaborative strength behind an ambitious scientific ecosystem.
A Showcase of North East Life Sciences Innovation
Hosted by Ramarketing and HFR Chemistry, the event featured panel discussions, presentations and networking sessions designed to explore the future of the UK life sciences landscape. Attendees included founders, funders, researchers and industry partners — all united by a shared goal: accelerating scientific innovation in the North East.
The day strongly reinforced the region’s ability to translate world‑class research into commercial impact. Something Northern Accelerator continues to champion.
Northern Accelerator Spinouts Take To The Stage
A real highlight was seeing multiple Northern Accelerator spinout companies contributing to discussions on:
- Scaling life sciences businesses
- Bringing university research to market
- Navigating funding challenges
- Building sustainable commercial growth
These conversations underscored the strength of the academic-to-industry pipeline across the region’s universities — a core part of what makes the North East a standout location for science-driven business creation.
Andrew Hodgson, Company Creation Manager at Newcastle University flew the flag for Northern Accelerator during the panel Turning Science into Fundable Spin-outs, offering valuable insights into what it takes to progress from discovery to deal.
A Region with Global Ambition and Strong Local Infrastructure
A central message throughout the day was the importance of global thinking for regional growth. To scale successfully within the competitive biotech and pharmaceutical landscape, North East companies must continue building international visibility and investment connections.
At the same time, the region’s ability to attract, develop and retain STEM talent remains critical. With assets like:
- Newcastle Helix — home to cutting-edge research facilities
- NETPark — a thriving hub for science and technology companies
…the North East offers the infrastructure, expertise and ambition required for world‑leading scientific innovation.
Expert Voices Shaping the Future of Life Sciences
Speakers from Magnitude Biosciences, NunaBio, Iksuda Therapeutics, Piramal Pharma Solutions, NETPark, LDC, Northstar Ventures, Newcastle University and the University of Sunderland shared diverse perspectives on innovation, commercial readiness and sector growth.
A powerful and emotional moment came from Prof. Herbie Newell of University of Sunderland. His keynote highlighted the profound, real‑world impact of successful drug development on patients and families. This human-centred message certainly resonated with the audience and reinforced the purpose behind life sciences innovation.
Driving Life Sciences Growth Together
The Northern Life Sciences Gathering highlighted the North East’s collective commitment to strengthening the region’s position within the UK life sciences sector. With its blend of global ambition, regional pride and collaborative networks, the North East is shaping an exciting future for scientific and commercial innovation.
Northern Accelerator is proud to play a key role in this journey — supporting researchers, spinouts and partners as we continue building a thriving ecosystem for innovation‑led economic growth.
