Life science membership organisation Builds Bio+ has launched a new London/UK chapter.
The organisation’s aim is to foster collaboration, innovation and growth in the UK and Europe, while strengthening transatlantic ties with the Greater New York and Philadelphia regions in the US.
The founding members of the London/UK Builds Bio+ chapter are: University College London, SC1 London, Mace Construct, AECOM, Galileo Labs, Macfarlanes LLP, Linesight, Merrick & Company, Precis Advisory and PLP Architecture.
Nancy J Kelley, president and CEO of Nancy J Kelley + Associates and a founding member of Builds Bio+, said: “Builds BIO+ aims to unify the entire life sciences ecosystem in the markets we serve, including academic institutions, biotech and pharmaceutical companies, service and instrumentation providers, building owners, developers, and engineering and design professionals. This collaborative approach uncovers synergies that enhance our collective potential and drive innovation across the industry – and across nations.
“Expanding to London/UK, a leading hub of life sciences innovation with many similarities to New York, elevates our mission further, fostering transatlantic collaborations that could redefine the possibilities of what we can achieve together in the life sciences.”
Geraint Rees, vice provost, University College London, added: “At University College London, we are committed to fostering an environment where collaboration drives scientific breakthroughs. London/UK Builds Bio+ represents a unique opportunity to bridge the expertise of the UK and US life sciences sectors, creating a fertile ground for innovation. By partnering with institutions and industry leaders across both sides of the Atlantic, we aim to accelerate progress on some of the most critical challenges in healthcare and science today. UCL is excited to play a pivotal role in shaping this transformative initiative.”
Ryan Matenchuk, CEO of Galileo Labs, said: “By uniting life science professionals, academic institutions, real estate developers, and policymakers, Builds Bio+ London aims to foster a thriving life sciences market with knowledge of the US ecosystem growth.”
Dr Ryan Burnette, head of Merrick’s life sciences practice, added “Merrick’s delighted to be a founding member of the Builds Bio+ community in London. Builds Bio+ provides a pathway for the UK’s broader development market to be informed by the same global best practices our UK government and multi-national pharmaceutical clients seek from us: research spaces designed to foster innovation encompassed within facilities that meet tomorrow’s expectations for quality, compliance, bio-risk management, and sustainable operations.”
Faaiza Lalji, director of planning and development at Precis Advisory, said: “Our partnership with MSD/Merck on their UK headquarters and Discovery Centre in King’s Cross really cemented our belief in the power of the transatlantic exchange of ideas and people. We are keen to continue to provide opportunities and support for American companies looking to come to the UK, and ultimately to drive innovation and growth in both economies and societies.”
Robert Lemming, managing director, public sector and life sciences at Mace Construct, added: “As a founding member of London/UK Builds Bio+, we’re excited to contribute our expertise in delivering complex, cutting-edge facilities. This collaboration will be crucial in developing the infrastructure needed to support the UK’s thriving life sciences sector.”
Mark Kelly, COO of PLP Architecture, which collaborated with HOK to design the Francis Crick Institute in London’s Knowledge Quarter (pictured), said: “PLP Architecture is proud to be a founding member of London/UK Builds Bio+, supporting the UK’s life sciences sector through collaboration and knowledge exchange. With our extensive experience in the field, we are excited to contribute to the chapter to help drive innovation and foster new relationships. This initiative marks an important step in connecting UK and US life sciences markets, and we look forward to playing a role in strengthening ties across the pond.”
