Commercialisation
NESCI's strength is research with a translational focus, ie a focus on what can be achieved from our science. This can either be from progressing science into clinical application to be used directly with patients or via the creation of products and services that will be delivered through the commercial market.
Commercial opportunities, which will help us create jobs and wealth in the North-east, will be in three main areas:
- Therapeutics: using stem cells to treat degenerative disorders or to generate replacement tissues and organs. This is a long-term aim as it will take many years of research and clinical trials to develop these therapies.
- Research applications: for example, stem cells used in drug discovery and testing of toxicity. This is likely to be a medium-term application of stem cell science.
- Enabling technologies: Research tools and consumables, cell banking, and associated technology, will all be required to support stem cell work across the world. This is likely to be the fastest growing area in the short-term.
NESCI academics have already developed several spin-out companies:
A biotechnology company specialising in the development of enabling technologies for use in research into cell growth and function.
A company with a unique human skin explant assay which can be used as a diagnostic tool for new therapies.
Provides technology to the woundcare, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. A unique platform of patented dermal cells and assays which accurately model skin function and promote wound healing.
We are also interested in exploring other interactions with commercial organisations through:
- Consultancy
- Collaboration on research projects
- Co-Supervision of PhD or EngD students
- Use of our facilities
