London: Launch of Bio Nano consultancy

This week sees the official launch of Bio Nano Consulting (BNC), a specialist product development consultancy that brings together senior researchers at Imperial College London, the London Centre for Nanotechnology (a joint venture between Imperial and University College London) and the UK’s National Physical Laboratory to advise industry on applying nanotechnology tools to biomedical applications.

The aim is to provide a seamless concept-to-market route for the bio-nanotechnology sector, and has two projects under way with major pharmaceutical and diagnostics companies.

BNC combines experts in nanotechnology and biomedical engineering, experienced product development professionals and a £5 million investment in infrastructure, instrumentation and working capital. Particular specialist areas include virtual design, rapid prototyping and nano-characterisation.

David Sarphie, CEO of BNC said, “Over the next 20 years or so, the developing science of nanotechnology is going to transform healthcare and generate globally significant revenues.”

“For example, it is estimated that by 2015, some 50 to 60 per cent of drugs will have involved nanotechnology in some stage of the development or delivery process. BNC offers a new way for companies to develop therapies, diagnostics and biomedical products that make use of nanotechnology.”

BNC’s Industrial Advisory Board, composed of representatives from companies working in the biomedical sector, will ensure that technological concepts are successfully turned into reality, and projects will be run to schedule by highly experienced product development managers.

BNC, a joint venture of Imperial College London and University College London, is funded through the Technology Strategy Board with additional support from the London Development Agency.