On Thursday 5 March, researchers, clinicians and industry leaders will be gathering at Discovery Park to celebrate collaborative innovation in the region.
Now in its third year, the Joint Innovation Showcase will see attendees learn about the progress and impact of Kent research, and come away with fresh insights into the challenges, opportunities and support for innovators in the region.
The event is funded by Kent’s Impact Acceleration Account (IAA) scheme which stems from a recognition that knowledge, technology and processes developed within universities improve lives, drive industry innovation and lead to economic growth – but only where the gap between academia and industry can be bridged. The scheme is enabling the University to make that connection and move projects along the translational pipeline in flexible, responsive and creative ways.
Since 2022, Kent’s Medical Research Council (MRC) and Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) IAA accounts have been used to fund over 30 projects across the University. The event will showcase a selection of these, including those exploring new treatments for bladder cancer and applications for smart assistive mobility. Kent’s IAA leads, Professors Michelle Garrett and Tobias Von Der Haar, will be on hand to listen to feedback from those who have experienced the scheme and share updates on future funding rounds.
Alongside academic and business presentations, there will be networking opportunities, a poster session and talks led by representatives from Discovery Park, the MRC, Innovate UK and Kent’s Centre for Advanced Diagnostics Development and Application (CADDA). They will offer inspiration, opportunities to create new connections and advice on support available for those looking to move innovation projects down the translational pipeline from the initial idea stage towards real-world application and commercialisation.
Professor Michelle Garrett, IAA Lead for the MRC IAA, said: ‘We are looking forward to once again teaming up with Discovery Park to celebrate innovation in the region. Attendees will see first-hand how Kent researchers are turning innovative ideas into impact, and have the chance to explore new partnerships that could shape the next wave of breakthroughs. I’d encourage anyone interested in innovation – whether you’re an academic, funder, clinical or industry partner – to join us on 5 March.’
Renos Savva, Head of Innovation and Venture Development at Discovery Park, said: ‘The third edition of the Innovation Showcase will showcase the dynamic and exciting opportunities through collaborative exchange between the university and private companies via Discovery Park. This year we focus on IP management in translation and spin-out. We’ve always been impressed by local and UK stakeholder engagement that make this event effective for exploring and empowering new connections.’
Sponsored by intellectual property law experts Appleyard Lees, the event includes a panel session on the opportunities and challenges of IP transfer and commercialising research.
Find out more and book your free place at the Innovation Showcase.