Startup Spotlight

GitLife Biotech tackles a key challenge in synthetic biology: proving ownership and tracking provenance of engineered biological assets. Their tools replace outdated methods like lab notebooks and unlock commercial potential for labs and start-ups. They envision widespread adoption — with plans to expand from microorganisms into plants, algae, and mammalian cells.

Lucy Ahern

August 7, 2025

Animal studies have been a pre-requisite for drug discovery since the beginning of clinical trials, but with advances in synthetic biology, is animal testing becoming obsolete in today's drug discovery process? PeptiMatrix are at the forefront of this innovation with their advanced, customisable hydrogel technology, they are poised to take advantage of the drug discovery revolution!

Ariyana Rayatt

May 9, 2025

Jetbio, founded by Professor Kenny Dalgarno and CEO Dennis Camilleri, is developing a 3D bioprinting system called Reactive Jet Impingement (ReJI). ReJI combines drop-on-demand printing with high cell density deposition, enabling precise, clog-free bioprinting of complex tissue models. The technology enhances drug discovery, disease modelling, and regenerative medicine, focusing on osteoarthritis, leukaemia, skin diseases, liver cancer, and cardiotoxicology. Jetbio holds patents for ReJI in the US and Europe, strengthening its market position.

Suruchi Sethi

March 25, 2025

Medusa Pharmaceuticals, founded in 2021 by Dr. James Duboff and Professor Peter Sarkies, has developed a groundbreaking approach to combat antibiotic resistance by combining alkylating agents with aminoglycoside antibiotics to restore their efficacy. Focused on conditions like cystic fibrosis, their method could reduce drug toxicity and address antimicrobial resistance, with promising early results and plans for further development...

Megan Thomas

January 17, 2025

Radiant Matter is a London-based startup developing sustainable alternatives to microplastic embellishments like sequins and glitter, using cellulose and structural colour technology. Founded by Elissa Brunato and Dr. Cyan Williams, the company aims to replace petroleum-based products with eco-friendly materials, securing £1.2 million in pre-seed funding to further their mission.

Ariyana Rayatt

June 4, 2025

Founded in 2022 Pathfinder Bio’s team consists of Dr Gareth Little (CEO, co-founder), an expert in biomanufacturing with 14 years of experience in engineering biology for chemical production, and Professor John Heap (Inventor, co-founder): a research leader within bioengineering and 3x founder. They are joined by Dr Hasan Tanvir Imam (Senior Scientist), an expert in biocatalysis and enzyme development. Pathfinder Bio are currently looking for a co-founder/C-suite level executive with experience within Biomanufacturing to join full-time and help shape the company’s commercial activities and drive impact of their proprietary technology within target markets.

Aonghus Topham

January 6, 2025