Stuart Grant, CEO of Harwell Campus, said: “Welcoming the Franklin as our first founding member is a milestone moment for CO:LABS. Successfully scaling a new Biotech is ferociously challenging, it’s essential that we build an ecosystem that provides the right level of support to help innovators succeed. The Franklin’s commitment to mentoring and knowledge sharing will be invaluable in equipping our startups with the expertise and insights needed to scale and commercialise their innovations.”
Professor Paul Matthews Director of the Franklin added: “Supporting the next generation of biotech entrepreneurs is central to the Franklin’s mission. We are excited to be able to apply our expertise and resources to acceleration of innovation in the life sciences sector through this partnership.”
Barbara Ghinelli Director, Innovation Clusters and Harwell Campus, UKRI-STFC said: “CO:LABS will supercharge Harwell’s thriving Health Tech Cluster. This partnership will enhance the successful incubator programmes, funding and innovation and support programmes that are already operating at Harwell Campus and will accelerate the ability of brilliant biotechs to scale up.”
CO:LABS, opening in 2026, is the campus’ latest landmark 120,000 sq. ft laboratory development for life-changing science. It has been intentionally and inclusively designed from the start to ensure that brilliant biotech companies are able to recruit, retain and raise funds with best-in-class amenities including a café, lecture theatre, pitch rooms, fully fitted and serviced laboratory space with inclusive of write-up and office space, supported by a dedicated onsite lab manager to ensure the smooth running of the labs so members focus on science.
