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Access to laboratory space and equipment

New research into challenges deep tech chemistry ventures face in accessing laboratory space and equipment

10 Feb 2023

Background

Laboratory space and specialist equipment is core to bringing any chemistry-based technology to market.

Whether it' glove boxes for developing next generation battery technology, ducted fume-hoods for safe use of chemicals or analytical equipment for characterising small molecule drugs, without access to bespoke, affordable chemistry facilities it is simply impossible for chemistry start-ups and early-stage ventures to flourish.

In 2022, we reported that there's a widespread perception in the UK of a lack of available, suitably equipped premises for deep tech chemistry SMEs. New property data published last year shows the extent of the issue, with key UK science clusters Oxford and Cambridge having almost no available laboratory spaces for rent.

Our community tells us that this issue is constraining business development and scale-up, right up and down the country – and it's not going away.
“One site offered us a lab big enough for 10 researchers and only one fume hood; this is a sensible proportion for a pharmacology lab, but totally inadequate for our needs and the needs of any synthetic chemistry company.”

From words to action

Tackling systemic issues that hamper chemistry technologies from getting to market is key to our mission for Change Makers. That's why this year we're embarking on a journey to drive change.

Throughout 2023 we're bringing together key players to identify the issues relating to access to laboratory space and equipment. We will work with our community to generate evidence on the matters that specifically concern chemistry start-ups and early-stage ventures. And we will facilitate connections and dialogue in the ecosystem to develop solutions and impetus for action.

This is an ongoing theme for 2023. Stay up to date by checking our website for updates.

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Access to laboratory space and equipment

New research into challenges deep tech chemistry ventures face in accessing laboratory space and equipment.
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