Bioincubator 10 Year Anniversary Event
On 23rd September 2009, UMIC celebrated ten years of successful biotechnology incubation and growth with a major event involving industry, government and investor delegates. Speakers included Sir William Castell, Chairman of the Wellcome Trust and ex-CEO of Amersham plc.
The event also celebrated the 5th anniversary of UMIP, the University's IP commercialisation company, looking back on its significant achievements and a view of the future (http://www.umip.com/).
Over 125 invited delegates attended to hear how the region’s leading biotechnology business incubator story began in 1999 – and to meet the companies that are putting northwest biotechnology on the global map.
“It was a great event. Bill Castell’s kind words regarding UMIC’s contribution over the past decade and the challenges that lie ahead for UK plc in biotechnology and healthcare were very much appreciated” commented Martino Picardo, Managing Director of UMIC. Sir William Castell, Chairman of the Wellcome Trust, unveiled a commerative plaque to celebrate ten years of successful biotechnology business growth.
Martino stated: “We have achieved much through the success of our tenants over the past ten years, and it was a real pleasure to celebrate in the company of old friends and current colleagues. I want to particularly congratulate DxS Ltd on their acquisition by Qiagen and we wish them well with heir ongoing plans to move to Manchester Science Park. Our pipeline of young biotech tenants also showcased their ambitions at the event, and UMIC is looking forward to helping these firms achieve growth and investment. I am grateful to Sir William Castell, to all our speakers and presenters, and to our friends and colleagues who participated in the event today. Watch this space - there is much more to come from UMIC and Manchester biotech.”