Biotechnology

The Biotechnology team at Innovate UK KTN focuses on Industrial Biotechnology (IB), Engineering Biology (EB, commonly referred to as Synthetic Biology) and Microbiomes.

These technologies have the potential to carry out transformations which would not be feasible, technically or economically, using traditional chemistry. They hold the potential to make entirely new materials or to develop processes which run at low or ambient temperatures, thus reducing energy consumption. Consequently they can have a major impact in the UK’s move to Net Zero emissions.

The team works with all sectors that either use, or are interested in using, biotechnology in their business, in particular Chemicals, Pharmaceuticals, Home & Personal Care, AgroChemicals, Food and Drink – and many more.

Our experts use deep knowledge of the sector to help you and your business innovate through access to funding, expertise and building connections and collaborations. The team works closely with national bodies such as the Industrial Biotechnology Leadership Forum (IBLF) and the Engineering Biology Leadership Council (EBLC).

Follow us on Twitter: @KTN_Biotech

Our current focus in this area

Engineering Biology (EngBio) provides us with the opportunity to step away from traditional methods and provide innovative solutions for challenges brought by climate change and the associated impact areas, like food availability and the need for sustainable feedstocks.

Similar to Engineering Biology, Industrial Biotech impacts numerous sectors including Chemistry, Materials, Healthcare and AgriFood. It also has a significant role in the development of a Circular Economy by using waste as a feedstock for biobased products.

The Microbiome Innovation Network (formerly SIG) aims to accelerate the commercialisation of microbiome-based products and services in the UK and create a vibrant community by connecting industry and academia.

Related Opportunities

SBRI: Vaccine development for potential epidemic diseases stage 1

Opens: 31/05/2023 Closes: 12/07/2023

Organisations can apply for a share of up to £25m to develop vaccine candidates, technologies and platforms, up to and including phase 1 clinical trials.

More Information

Engineering Biology Collaborative R&D Round 2

Opens: 30/05/2023 Closes: 26/07/2023

UK businesses can apply for a share of up to £6.7m to develop Engineering Biology technologies, processes, products, services, or solutions to societal challenges.

More Information

Advancing precision medicine: Round 2

Opens: 15/05/2023 Closes: 28/06/2023

Up to £20m to develop digital and data-enabled tools and multi-modal approaches for oncology, musculoskeletal/cardiovascular and chronic conditions.

More Information

Related Events and Recordings

Tue
16
May
2023

UK Phage Innovation Showcase

09.30 - 16.30 | Leicester/online

Watch now
Thu
15
Dec
2022

Industrial Applications of Biomass: The Biorefinery Concept – creating high value product streams from biomass

10.00 - 12.00 | Online

Watch now
Thu
16
Feb
2023

Innovate UK KTN Phage Innovation Network - Online launch event

10.00 - 11.30 | Online

Watch now
See all events

Our Experts

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For general enquiries regarding our Biotechnology sector contact us now

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