Category: News

Discovery Park, Kent’s science and innovation hub, has launched the sixth edition of its Discovery Spark accelerator programme, welcoming 11 startups to its campus in Sandwich.

 

The business growth programme has already supported 50 companies and 76 founders, with alumni securing £5.5m in UKRI funding since launching in 2023. For Cohort 6.0, the startups were selected based on the need for their innovation, the uniqueness of their solution, and the strength of their team. Spark is designed to provide opportunities for companies to grow a network of peers, mentors and expert advisors, as part of a friendly and collaborative cohort. 

 

Throughout March and April, the Cohort 6.0 founders will be attending specialist-led sessions focused on investor readiness, covering essential business topics from tax and finance to storytelling and branding. The programme culminates with a competitive pitch day on 30 April to a panel of active investors. 

 

Cohort 6.0 includes three local companies from Kent, all based at Discovery Park. Green innovator Hydro Flow Energy is harnessing the natural rise and fall of the tide to deliver predictable and grid-stable power. Protein startup MilaK is developing next-generation bioactive milk proteins through precision fermentation, providing animal-free products for nutrition. Energy technology expert Colliding Materials is developing scalable, low-cost graphene composite technology for flow battery and fuel cell manufacturers.

 

The cohort also draws talent from across the UK, including Belfast-based BlokBio which is aiming to accelerate drug discovery cycles through better genomic data analysis workflows. London-based Veirulence is developing a new class of antibacterial drug, and RoboRNA from Durham is working on smarter ways to package and deliver RNA therapeutics to the right cells in the body, taking inspiration from viruses in nature. 

 

Programme Lead Renos Savva, Head of Innovation and Venture Development at Discovery Park, commented: 

 

“Cohort 6.0 brings together an exceptionally diverse group of founders — solving challenges from greener energy to new antibacterial drugs. That breadth reflects both the strength of applications we received and the versatility of the Discovery Spark programme. Over the coming weeks, we’ll work closely with each company to sharpen their commercial strategy, investor narrative and growth plans. The goal, as always, is to leave every founder better equipped to secure funding and scale their business.”

 

The accelerator is open to UK-based science and technology startups and SMEs from all disciplines. Learn more about Discovery Spark and register interest for the next cohort: https://discovery-park.co.uk/lp/discovery-spark/ 

 

Details of 11 companies taking part in Discovery Spark Cohort 6.0 (listed alphabetically): 

 

Anthera Remediation Technologies

Anthera is a remediation technology provider focused on PFAS, the so-called ‘forever chemicals’ that contaminate drinking water and soil. Aiming to make remediation simple, effective, and affordable, Anthera has developed an advanced photocatalytic oxidation process that destroys up to 90% of PFAS – with lower operational costs and less energy compared to current methods.

 

BlokBio 

BlokBio builds RNA evidence infrastructure — the governed layer that makes RNA experimental outputs reusable across programmes, teams, and AI systems. Already deployed in paid RNA target discovery programmes in oncology, BlokBio plans to launch a self-serve analysis platform where researchers can access decision-grade RNA analysis directly, removing bottlenecks in genomic data analysis workflows. 

 

Colliding Materials

Colliding Materials is developing scalable, low-cost graphene composite technology for energy systems such as flow battery and fuel cell manufacturers. Colliding Materials has a know-how-protected process producing graphene-enhanced composites that are formed into bipolar plates for integration into next-generation energy systems, improving performance whilst reducing costs. 

 

Hydro Flow Energy 

Hydro Flow Energy is developing TideMaster technology — a patent-pending tidal energy generation system that harnesses the natural rise and fall of the tide to deliver consistently predictable, grid-stable power. TideMaster converts the vertical motion of tidal cycles into rotational energy via a novel buoyancy mechanism, generating clean power continuously, 24 hours a day, without disrupting marine ecosystems. 

 

Kratu

Kratu is a technology-driven education startup focused on improving learning outcomes for children with learning difficulties, designing and delivering scalable learning and diagnostic tools that address real-world learning needs and help bridge critical skill gaps. Their goal is to create an inclusive learning ecosystem where individuals, families, and educators can access continuous, personalised support both within and beyond traditional institutions. 

 

MilaK

MilaK is developing next-generation bioactive milk proteins through precision fermentation. Their mission is to produce human-identical, animal-free dairy proteins that support immune resilience, iron regulation, and metabolic health while significantly reducing the environmental footprint of traditional dairy production. 

 

Project Navarro

Project Navarro is aiming to establish an oncology-focused first-in-class drug discovery programme based on a novel biochemical network modelling approach. The use of powerful modelling technology supports the selection of drug targets and method/modality, supporting intelligent drug discovery with potentially revolutionary impacts on the lives of patients. 

 

RoboRNA

RoboRNA is focused on next-generation RNA therapeutics. The company’s mission is to tackle two of the field’s most pressing challenges: RNA instability and tissue-specific delivery. To address these bottlenecks, they are developing a set of RNA packaging and delivery solutions for tissue-specific, programmable delivery, taking inspiration from viral entry and viral RNA delivery mechanisms.

 

Valaya Bio

Valaya Bio is developing a novel disease-modifying therapeutic strategy for Parkinson’s Disease, focused on upstream modulation of key biological control points that influence multiple pathological processes. Their innovation employs precision oligonucleotide technology designed to selectively modulate master regulators of disease networks, enabling coordinated influence across dysfunctional pathways that drive Parkinson’s Disease progression. 

 

VectorisBio

VectorisBio is developing advanced purification technologies for viral vectors used in cell and gene therapy, aiming to accelerate the development and accessibility of next-generation biologic medicines. Their proprietary platform designs and synthesises novel synthetic affinity ligands capable of selectively binding viral vectors. These ligands can be integrated into membrane and chromatography-based purification systems to enable faster, more efficient capture and purification while maintaining high yield and product quality. 

 

Veirulence

Veirulence is developing a new class of antibacterial drug – virulence factor (VF) targeting therapies. VF-targeting therapies can achieve improved patient outcomes by “disarming” bacteria. Inhibition of VFs reduces bacterial virulence, can potentiate antibiotics and delay the development of resistance. Veirulence’s first-in-class small molecule therapeutic aims to reduce mortality in haem malignancy patients with Gram-negative infections.

 

Interested in joining a future cohort? Find out more and register here.

SignaCor Therapeutics has been named the winner of Discovery Park’s startup growth programme for innovations in cardiovascular health, securing £250k in funding from venture capital firm Zinc. This investment forms part of a £1M seed round expected to close in April. 

 

Northern Ireland-based SignaCor is developing medicines for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, where thickening of the heart muscle makes it harder for blood to be pumped around the body. This genetically inherited cardiac disorder affects around 1 in 500 people in the UK.

 

Led by CEO Darach Neeson and CSO Dr Chris Watson, SignaCor is working on a new first-in-class treatment to reverse heart damage and prevent further deterioration of heart muscles. SignaCor aims to address the underlying disease pathology for the first time, leading to better quality of life and longer life expectancies for patients.

 

Discovery Spark is a business growth programme for founders working in life sciences, with specialist-led sessions and mentoring spread over seven weeks. A cohort of eight promising cardiovascular and cardiometabolic companies took part, culminating in a pitch day with investors at Zinc’s London offices at the end of 2025. SignaCor was recognised as the overall winner for their standout pitch presentation, experienced team and clear market need.

 

Programme Lead Renos Savva, Head of Innovation and Venture Development at Discovery Park, commented: 

“SignaCor’s success is a testament to what’s possible when you combine scientific rigour with the right support network. Discovery Spark is designed to bridge the gap between a great idea and a credible business, and seeing that translate into real investment is enormously rewarding. The cardiovascular space is ripe for innovation, and we’re proud that Discovery Spark is helping to drive it forward.”

 

Natalie Pankova, Partner, Health and Life Science at Zinc, said: 

“Zinc’s partnership with Discovery Spark helped surface some really exciting companies capable of delivering meaningful advances for patient impact, and we’re thrilled to have been able to make this investment in SignaCor. Cardiovascular disease continues to represent one of the greatest unmet challenges in global health. What stood out about SignaCor was the strength of the science combined with a clear, executable path to clinical impact. SignaCor’s progress and success through the programme demonstrates the power of combining science with the right venture and ecosystem support. ”

 

Darach Neeson, CEO at SignaCor, said: 

“The Spark programme’s content was exceptional – value-filled insights from UK life science industry experts and meaningful investor engagement. The lessons learned have influenced our strategy, and we would absolutely recommend it to other founders. We are excited to now join Zinc’s portfolio of innovative life science companies. This funding will allow us to execute our Phase 2a trial plans and advance our regulatory strategy, bringing us closer to delivering a new treatment for patients with limited treatment options.” 

 

As the fifth iteration of the Spark programme, the cohort’s focus on heart health was selected for its high burden on lives, with cardiovascular diseases accounting for 1 in 4 of all deaths in the UK. 

 

Hosted by Kent’s innovation ecosystem Discovery Park, Cohort 5.0 was partnered with Health Innovation Kent Surrey Sussex, providing participants with valuable contacts across NHS and academia, plus Zinc VC, delivering direct connections to potential investors. The programme is also designed to provide opportunities for founders to grow a network of peers, mentors and expert advisors, as part of a friendly and collaborative cohort. 

 

A sixth cohort of Discovery Spark is starting in mid-March, with an open tech focus. Founders interested in taking part in a future Discovery Spark cohort should register their interest: https://discovery-park.co.uk/discovery-spark/

 

Discovery Spark: Cohort 5.0 Participants (listed alphabetically)  

 

Coblum – Awarded third place 

Coblum empowers bystanders to save lives when cardiac arrest strikes. By automating CPR and defibrillation, their device removes panic and skill barriers to deliver complete first aid within seconds. No skills. No strength. Just set it up — Coblum takes over.

 

Dimension Biotechnologies – Awarded second place 

Dimension aims to make microvascular disease (damage to the microscopic blood vessels that feed organs with a constant supply of blood) routinely detectable by doctors. They are developing the first liquid biopsies for microvascular health and disease, providing insight into currently inaccessible parts of the circulatory system for earlier diagnosis and treatment. 

 

HeartGuard

HeartGuard aims to make heart health simple, convenient and accessible. A smartphone application and newsletter helps to alleviate some of the mental health burdens of living with heart disease, coupled with a supplement to support physical heart health. 

 

MediPacks

MediPacks is developing next-generation pharmaceutical solutions for use in medical emergencies outside of the hospital, with an initial focus on cardiovascular events such as heart attacks. Their mission is to empower faster intervention, reduce avoidable deaths, and transform emergency care at the community level.

 

Oxy Genomics

Focusing on women’s cardiovascular health, Oxy Genomics is aiming to transform cardiovascular disease detection through advanced multiomics and AI technologies, which can identify novel, early-stage biomarkers that traditional diagnostics often miss.

 

Persis Health Innovation (PHI) 

PHI is developing a non-invasive, AI-powered biosensor that detects key cardiovascular biomarkers. They are aiming to transform the future of women’s health through earlier detection and preventive care for cardiovascular disease. 

 

QDR Health

QDR Health is building a clinical and financial operating system for heart failure, anchored by a predictive algorithm, a clinician tool, and a patient-facing AI agent. They aim to support timely and appropriate follow-up care, improving health outcomes. 

 

SignaCor – Awarded first place 

SignaCor is a clinical stage drug development company developing a first-in-class treatment for symptomatic hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (thickening of the heart muscle), going beyond symptom management to target the underlying disease pathology.

 

 

Interested in joining a future cohort? Find out more and register here.

Discovery Park and University of Kent will host their third joint Innovation Showcase on Thursday, 5th March, bringing together academics, industry, clinical partners and funders. 

 

The showcase explores the progress and impact of research projects funded through the Kent UKRI Impact Acceleration Accounts (IAAs), a strategic investment programme designed to accelerate the real-world impact of research. 

 

This event aims to shape future innovation projects and provides opportunities for academics and stakeholders to give feedback on IAAs. Along with presentations and a panel discussion including academic and business leaders, plus experts from Innovate UK and the Medical Research Council, there is a dedicated networking session to connect attendees with potential Kent-based collaborators and new partners. 

 

University of Kent event co-organiser Michelle D. Garrett, PhD, Professor of Cancer Therapeutics, School of Natural Sciences, said: “Our third Innovation Showcase is a celebration of collaboration and the exciting possibilities that emerge when academia, industry and clinical stakeholders work together. Attendees will see first-hand how Kent researchers are turning innovative ideas into impact, and have the chance to explore new partnerships that could shape the next wave of breakthroughs. I’d encourage anyone interested in innovation – whether you’re an academic, funder, clinical or industry partner – to join us on 5th March.”

Sponsored by intellectual property law experts Appleyard Lees, the event includes a panel session on the opportunities and challenges of IP transfer and commercialising research.

 

The Innovation Showcase event is free and open to all, taking place from 10am to 3pm on 5th March at Discovery Park.

Register here.

Sandwich, UK – 9 February 2026: To mark National Apprenticeship Week (9 – 15 February), Kent’s science and technology hub Discovery Park is calling for more young people to consider higher apprenticeships as a route into rewarding careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths). 

Last year, 3,850 young people in Kent started a higher apprenticeship programme, a 22% increase on the previous year. Higher apprenticeships include degree apprenticeships – where students gain a full undergraduate or master’s degree without student fees – and also Higher National Diplomas and foundation-level qualifications. These courses allow students to gain essential qualifications and invaluable work experience whilst earning a salary. 

Discovery Park currently has 21 higher apprentices on programme at the site, working in companies including Pfizer and Asymchem. Their apprenticeships range from science roles to project management. 

Phoebe Everitt, who is undertaking an apprenticeship in data science at Pfizer, said: “Starting an apprenticeship at Pfizer has given me many opportunities that I wouldn’t have received without being in the workplace. It has allowed me to experience working in a professional environment and seeing how what I learn in my degree is practically used in the field of data science. I am getting to work towards my degree while gaining work experience and many new practical skills that will be useful in future.

“I have also found Pfizer to be a very supportive place to work and it’s allowed me to meet many people who have a variety of experience that they can pass on to me.”

Not-for-profit Cogent Skills delivers apprenticeship programmes at Discovery Park and across the UK. As a science and technology specialist, Cogent provides development opportunities for young people while helping businesses access the skilled talent they need. 

Tim Mahoney, Skills Account Manager at Cogent Skills, said: “Higher apprenticeships are one of the most effective ways to build a skilled STEM workforce. They provide students with high-level qualifications alongside real, hands-on experience in industry. For employers, they offer a direct route to work-ready talent with the specialist skills the science and technology sectors urgently need. We’re proud to work with Discovery Park to support both young people and businesses across Kent and beyond.”

Chris Broom, Head of Business Development at Discovery Park, added: “The South East has the highest levels of life science employment in the UK – even ahead of London. As a major Kent employer, we see firsthand how higher apprenticeships are transforming lives. Young people gain world-class qualifications without student debt, while businesses develop their talent pipeline for the future. It’s a win-win that more young people should consider.” 

Apprenticeship opportunities are currently available at Discovery Park, offering salaries of £20,500 per annum. Interested applicants can view vacancies and apply via Cogent’s website.

As part of Discovery Park’s commitment to STEM education, a new sixth form, named Carbon 6 Academy of Science, will open onsite in September 2026, allowing students to study A-Levels in Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Maths. The school will bring education and industry together, providing real world experience and clear routes into higher apprenticeships and STEM careers. https://discovery-park.co.uk/lp/carbon-6-academy-of-science/

#NAW2026

Particology, a specialist particle science company based at science and business hub Discovery Park, has been selected for an £8.2M Government-funded research consortium to make the manufacture of medicines more efficient and sustainable. 

The three-and-a-half year research project is part of Innovate UK’s £54M Sustainable Medicines Manufacturing Innovation Programme and is one of eight “Grand Challenge” projects to develop and demonstrate novel technologies for greener, more efficient medicines manufacturing. 

The consortium’s investment has already allowed Particology to hire a new Spectroscopy Research Associate, based on-site in Sandwich, to begin work in January. 

Particology is focusing on the crystallisation of active pharmaceutical ingredients as the project’s industry lead in that area, using particle science and precision sensing to study crystals in greater detail than ever seen before. Crystallisation is an important step in the development of many drugs, purifying the active ingredients before they are packaged as a tablet or capsule. Particology’s research will advance real-time confirmation of crystallisation quality, meaning medicines can be made with fewer materials and waste products, and lower power requirements. The Particology team will carry out initial testing and development work on paracetamol and other common medicines, with the end goal of creating new technology for medicine manufacturers all over the world, driving economic growth and keeping the UK at the forefront of innovation. 

 

Dr John Murphy, Chief Operating Officer at Particology, said: “This innovative programme will transform the future of medicines manufacture, making production more efficient and sustainable. The investment from Innovate UK has already allowed us to expand our team and work with local partners, providing a much-needed boost to the scientific ecosystem right here in Kent.” 

 

Mark Talford, Deputy Director for Medicines Manufacturing at Innovate UK, said: “With funding from the VPAG Investment Programme, Innovate UK’s Sustainable Medicines Manufacturing Innovation Programme is driving greener, more efficient approaches to medicines production. Seeing Particology lead this work at Discovery Park in Kent demonstrates how regional innovation can deliver national impact. This collaboration will not only advance cutting-edge crystallisation technologies but also create high-value jobs and expertise, reinforcing Kent’s long-standing role in the UK’s life sciences sector and helping keep the UK at the forefront of global pharmaceutical manufacturing.”

 

Chris Broom, Head of Business Development at Discovery Park, added: “This latest Innovate UK grant is testament to the incredible expertise of the Particology team. Bringing this project to Kent demonstrates what’s possible when you combine world-class scientific talent with supportive infrastructure. Discovery Park is proud to be home to game-changing research on sustainable medicines manufacture.”

 

Founded in 2024 by seven co-founders all local to Sandwich, Particology has now almost doubled its headcount to 12 team members and counting, offering services to clients across pharmaceutical, food, agriculture and cosmetics industries. All of Particology’s co-founders formerly worked for Pfizer, taking a leap to start Particology to keep scientific talent in Kent and create new employment opportunities. 

The research consortium was impressed with Discovery Park’s world-class facilities, laboratories and infrastructure when visiting Particology as part of their application. The ecosystem at Discovery Park has also supported their business, with the team receiving guidance on company set up, along with advice and services from on-site suppliers.

The project will run until 2029, with results expected to position the UK as a global leader in sustainable medicines manufacturing while creating high-value jobs and expertise in Kent.

By Russell Sauntry, School Lead at Carbon 6 Academy of Science 

Here’s what drives me: I don’t see why young people in other parts of the world should have opportunities that ours don’t. Why shouldn’t Kent have world-class science and maths education, accessible to everybody?

I grew up in Partington, a large estate outside Manchester. Opportunities were limited. Talent wasn’t. Education was my way forward. Thirty eight years ago, I arrived in Kent as a student. Now I’m building Carbon 6 to ensure the next generation can find world-class STEM education, right here at home. 

Why Carbon 6? Why now?

Carbon 6 isn’t just another sixth form. Yes, we’re specialists. Yes, we’re focused on STEM. But this isn’t an elitist project – it’s an egalitarian one. This is about providing the young people of East Kent with world-class facilities. If you have exceptional ability in STEM and the passion to pursue it, this is your opportunity, no matter where you’re from or what your background is. 

Being located at Discovery Park – Sandwich’s science and technology business hub – gives our students access to advanced equipment such as robotics kits and 3D printers. Discovery Park’s onsite companies will also deliver guest lectures and workplacements for students, providing access and connections to billion-dollar multinational companies and innovative start-ups. 

I want young people across Kent to come to the site to be inspired by science and technology. This is about putting Kent back on the map for the people of Kent. I want local people to know that we have exciting industries at the forefront of innovation, and inspire young talent to grow, stay and thrive here. 

What’s in a name?

Carbon is the sixth element in the periodic table and the chemical backbone of life. All known life on Earth uses carbon as a fundamental building block thanks to its stability and versatility in making bonds with other elements and atoms. Carbon itself has thousands of uses – the pencils in your desk, the diamonds in your jewellery and even high performance carbon nanotubes unlocking innovation across all sectors, from energy storage and medicine. 

The name Carbon 6 reflects our vision for young people. Stability and versatility. A solid foundation. Thousands of possible futures unlocked by one inspirational sixth form. 

The impact of education 

Over my 25 year career in education leadership, I have always pushed to change the status quo and ask for better. I head up Amelix Entrepreneurship Academy, a Canterbury-based college that teaches real entrepreneurial skills, creating genuine businesses and setting pupils up for life through Amelix Education Resources. 

I’ve seen firsthand how the right education can be transformational. I had one student who’d been through four secondary schools, including a private one. After one week of attending the Entreprepreneurship Academy, the student’s dad came home from work to find his son excited about school for the first time in five years. His dad went upstairs and cried, then phoned me in tears. 

That young man is now a successful sales executive. He’s one of my strongest supporters, sharing everything we do. That’s what makes it worthwhile. When a student thanks you in their dissertation or when a parent tells you you’ve changed their family’s life. Those relationships matter and the impact of teaching matters, and that is the passion I am bringing to Carbon 6. 

By uniting education and industry, this is the UK’s first specialist science and maths sixth form to be embedded within an existing scientific park. Carbon 6 is designed for young people with exceptional abilities in STEM who need something more than the standard offering. They need world-class facilities. They want industry connections. They need to be challenged. They need to be stretched.

But we’re not just producing brilliant scientists who can’t function in the real world, we will also bring entrepreneurial skills and wrap-around pastoral care. You might be brilliant at science, but in the modern world, you need to be a rounded person who understands business, can build relationships, and who is looking to make a difference in the world.

The vision

I’m not interested in being a millionaire. That’s not my driver. What I want is to sit on a bench with my dog when I’m retired and say, “I built that.”

Carbon 6 is a school for tomorrow’s leaders. In 20 years’ time, I hope to reflect back on the incredible academy we’ve built and follow former pupils who have developed new cancer treatments, pioneered sustainable energy solutions, or led breakthrough research in their fields.

Thirty years ago, Kent gave me my opportunity. Now it’s time to make sure every talented young person in this county has theirs – right here, at Carbon 6. 

 

Find out more about Carbon 6 Academy of Science here.

A new science specialist sixth form is set to open next year, based at Sandwich science and innovation campus, Discovery Park.

The new sixth form is named Carbon 6 Academy of Science, ideal for ambitious students aged 16-18 with a passion for science and maths. The academy is designed for those looking to pursue a STEM career, setting students up for success with routes into further education including degree apprenticeships and university study.

The unique location within a world-class science park gives students access to state-of-the-art professional laboratories and research facilities. The first of its kind in the UK to offer a specialist science and maths sixth form embedded within an existing scientific park, the course is also industry-backed, with mentoring and guest lectures from Discovery Park’s onsite companies, including businesses working in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, advanced manufacturing and more.

With applications opening soon for the first Year 12 intake for September 2026, students can study A-levels in Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Maths, with additional opportunities in Further Maths and Extended Project Qualifications.

Designed for students aiming for a career in science-related fields, lessons will be delivered by experienced teachers with specialist science qualifications, ensuring that every student is challenged to reach their full potential. Carbon 6 will have a dedicated student support programme and pastoral care, including tailored preparation for University applications in medicine, dentistry and veterinary science, degree apprenticeships in STEM, as well as research placements and internships. Carbon 6 will have comfortable student common areas, social zones, and canteen facilities, providing a supportive and mature learning environment with an engaged peer group.

Current STEM skills shortages are estimated to cost the UK economy £1.5 billion a year^[1], with the Government making high quality STEM education a focus in their 2025 Industrial Strategy. The specialist education delivered by Carbon 6 aligns with the Government’s priority areas, ensuring young people have the skills needed for rewarding careers in high potential sectors, such as advanced manufacturing and life sciences.

 

UK Science Minister, Lord Vallance said:

“Kent’s Discovery Park is home to some of our most innovative businesses, all of which play their own role in driving the breakthroughs and investment that make life sciences such a valuable part of our economy, and our Industrial Strategy.

“Immersing students into this thriving scientific and business community will inspire the next generation of innovators, essential for the future of these industries, and give young people the vital skills for the careers our economy needs.”

 

Carbon 6 Lead, Russell Sauntry, qualified headteacher and co-founder of Amelix Education Resources Limited, commented:

“Our new sixth form is designed to support the South East’s aspiring young scientists, offering a world-class education environment where curiosity meets ambition. With personalised support, a focus on mastery, and hands-on experience in professional laboratories, Carbon 6 students will be prepared – not just for top grades – but for real-world STEM careers. We’re hugely excited to meet prospective students at our open evening in November.”

 

Chris Broom, Head of Business Development at Discovery Park, said:

“The South East is a thriving hub for science, with the highest levels of life sciences employment of any region in the UK. Discovery Park is a key employer in East Kent, so we’re excited to be supporting Carbon 6 with our world-class facilities and industry connections, enabling ambitious young people to develop the expertise needed for fulfilling careers in STEM. This unique education facility will be a centre of excellence for the next generation of doctors, engineers, researchers, and change-makers.”

 

The new free-to-attend state sixth form is open to all students achieving Grade 6+ in science GCSE subjects, with no geographic or catchment requirements. The first cohort of students will be Year 12s starting in September 2026, with the school expanding to encompass Years 12 & 13s from 2027. The sixth form will have smaller class sizes, and interested students are encouraged to make an application via Kent Choices as soon as possible.

 

An open evening is taking place on Thursday 27th November, 18:00 – 21:00. Prospective students are encouraged to register for the open day here.

 

Prospective pupils and their families will also have the chance to visit CoLab at Discovery Park during the open evening — an innovative shared laboratory launched in 2024 by Canterbury Christ Church University and Discovery Park, showcasing how collaboration between academia and industry supports skills development and local innovation.

 

Discovery Park, Kent’s thriving life science and innovation community, today welcomed eight promising cardiovascular and cardiometabolic health startups to its campus. The cohort are embarking on the ‘Discovery Spark’ business growth programme, championing and supporting early stage business working on innovations in heart health.

The early stage companies were selected from a wide pool based on the need for their innovation, the uniqueness of their solution, and the strength of their team. Over the next six weeks, the companies will attend expert-led sessions focused on investor readiness, covering essential business topics from intellectual property to branding. The programme culminates with a pitch day on the 16th October, offering the chance to receive up to £250K investment from venture capital firm Zinc and the opportunity for free lab or office space at Discovery Park.

As the fifth iteration of the Spark programme, the cohort’s focus on heart health was selected for its high burden on lives, with cardiovascular diseases accounting for 1 in 4 of all deaths in the UK. There is also a significant gender health gap for heart diseases, with women less likely to receive the appropriate diagnostic tests and treatments. Despite often being seen as a “man’s disease”, heart disease kill more than twice as many women as breast cancer in the UK every year.

Discovery Spark Cohort 5.0 includes Coblum, a tech company developing the world’s first fully-automated resuscitation device, delivering chest compressions and defibrillation in instances of sudden cardiac arrest. Another participant, drug development company SignaCor, is developing medicines for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (thickening of the heart muscle), aiming to address the underlying disease pathology for the first time. Digital health tech startup Persis Health Innovation is developing an AI-powered biosensor that detects key cardiovascular biomarkers, aiming to reduce the gender health gap for earlier detection of cardiovascular disease in women.

Learn more about Discovery Spark and register interest for the next cohort, open to early stage companies working in life science: https://discovery-park.co.uk/lp/discovery-spark/

 

Programme Lead Renos Savva, Head of Innovation and Venture Development, Discovery Park, commented: 

“These eight startups have huge potential to deliver life-saving solutions for heart health, and it’s incredibly inspiring to consider what they could achieve with the right support, network and infrastructure. The Spark programme is a key part of Discovery Park’s commitment to early stage businesses, sharing business skills to enable founders to secure investment and grow in a challenging business landscape.” 

 

Emilie Syed, Principal, Healthcare, Zinc: 

“Cardiovascular and cardiometabolic diseases remain the leading causes of death and disability worldwide, yet innovation in these areas continues to lag behind their global burden. Zinc is excited to partner with Discovery Park on the 5th cohort of the Discovery Spark programme, leveraging science-based innovation to make an impact in this area of unmet clinical need.”

Hosted by Kent’s innovation ecosystem Discovery Park, Cohort 5.0 is partnered with Health Innovation Kent Surrey Sussex, providing participants with valuable contacts across NHS and academia, plus Zinc VC, delivering direct connections to potential investors. The programme is also designed to provide opportunities for early stage companies to grow a network of peers, mentors and expert advisors, as part of a friendly and collaborative cohort.

 

Discovery Park: Cohort 5.0 Participants (listed alphabetically)  

 

Coblum

Coblum empowers bystanders to save lives when cardiac arrest strikes. By automating CPR and defibrillation, their device removes panic and skill barriers to deliver complete first

aid within seconds. No skills. No strength. Just set it up — Coblum takes over.

 

Dimension Biotechnologies

Dimension aims to make microvascular disease (damage to the microscopic blood vessels that feed organs with a constant supply of blood) routinely detectable by doctors. They are developing the first liquid biopsies for microvascular health and disease, providing insight into currently inaccessible parts of the circulatory system for earlier diagnosis and treatment. 

 

HeartGuard

HeartGuard aims to make heart health simple, convenient and accessible. A smartphone application and newsletter helps to alleviate some of the mental health burdens of living with heart disease, coupled with a supplement to support physical heart health. 

 

MediPacks

MediPacks is developing next-generation pharmaceutical solutions for use in medical emergencies outside of the hospital, with an initial focus on cardiovascular events such as heart attacks. Their mission is to empower faster intervention, reduce avoidable deaths, and transform emergency care at the community level.

 

Oxy Genomics

Focusing on women’s cardiovascular health, Oxy Genomics is aiming to transform cardiovascular disease detection through advanced multiomics and AI technologies, which can identify novel, early-stage biomarkers that traditional diagnostics often miss.

 

Persis Health Innovation (PHI) 

PHI is developing a non-invasive, AI-powered biosensor that detects key cardiovascular biomarkers. They are aiming to transform the future of women’s health through earlier detection and preventive care for cardiovascular disease. 

 

QDR Health

QDR Health is building a clinical and financial operating system for heart failure, anchored by a predictive algorithm, a clinician tool, and a patient-facing AI agent. They aim to support timely and appropriate follow-up care, improving health outcomes. 

 

SignaCor

SignaCor is a clinical stage drug development company developing a first-in-class treatment for symptomatic hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (thickening of the heart muscle), going beyond symptom management to target the underlying disease pathology.

 

CancerTools.org, a unique non-profit cancer research tool supplier and part of Cancer Research UK, has chosen Discovery Park as the home of their first UK based laboratory, growing their team at the Sandwich Science and Tech campus. 

Since establishing its presence at Discovery Park in 2023, CancerTools.org has expanded its operations, enhancing its capacity to provide high-quality cancer research tools to the global scientific community. Many of these tools are contributed by leading academic laboratories and researchers, reflecting the organisation’s collaborative approach. The organisation looks forward to driving its mission to empower scientists and accelerate cancer discoveries worldwide. 

Mayer Schreiber, CEO of Discovery Park, said: 

“I’m delighted to see the remarkable growth of the CancerTools.org team since opening their first UK laboratory at Discovery Park. Their incredible biorepository network is solving a real problem in cancer research, helping to accelerate discoveries by sharing knowledge around the world. CancerTools.org is an asset to the ecosystem at Discovery Park, creating valuable opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange between tenants working in oncology.”

CancerTools.org continues to focus on its mission to accelerate cancer research by enabling global access to innovative tools and reagents. The organisation works collaboratively with scientists, academic spinouts, emerging biotech, and pharmaceuticals teams alike – strengthening innovation and sustainable science across the cancer research landscape. 

For more information, visit www.cancertools.org.

Discovery Park, Kent’s leading hub for science and technology, today announced the arrival of two pioneering biotech companies to its innovation campus. iLoF (Intelligent Lab on Fiber), a digital health company and MilaK, a precision fermentation protein business, have now moved into their new laboratory space in Sandwich, Kent. 

iLoF is on a mission to accelerate personalised drug development, by optimising clinical and pre-clinical drug development, beginning with a key focus on Alzheimer’s Disease. This impressive digital health company is leveraging advanced artificial intelligence, combined with a cutting edge, proprietary optical technology to build a robust library of unique optical fingerprints. This allows for easy and non-invasive screening and stratification, allowing patients to receive treatments tailored for their needs, while making personalised therapies and drug discovery for complex diseases far more attainable. Founded in 2019 and backed by investors including Microsoft Ventures and Hamamatsu Ventures Japan, the promising company has already received over $10 million in funding since inception.

iLoF has an expert team of 30 scientists, entrepreneurs and investors, spread across the UK and Europe. They were referred to Discovery Park by an investor, who recommended the Sandwich campus as it met their needs for flexible space with an easy connection to London, along with partnerships with local Universities. The facilities at Discovery Park will help to build culture amongst the previously hybrid team and allow for growth in the future. iLoF has plans to hire five new team members to be based in Sandwich by the end of 2025, with job roles in science and engineering. 

MilaK uses precision fermentation to develop next-generation, animal-free whey proteins. Their platform technology is initially focused on protein for sport nutrition, but the team see future applications in infant formula and medical nutrition. Recently founded and already backed by Innovate UK, MilaK is in their R&D phase, with the expert team aiming to deliver their first nutrition supplement prototype within the next few months.  

The MilaK team visited a number of science parks across the country in their search for their home, but “fell in love” with the facilities at Discovery Park, citing the collaborative environment and availability of specialist lab space. MilaK also appreciated the Barclays Eagle Lab at Discovery Park, which offered an inspiring environment to host meetings and opportunities to grow through networking. Rapidly scaling up to a team of seven in a matter of months, the team have just hired two scientists based at Discovery Park. 

Both companies have taken up residence in Discovery Park’s CoLab, a collaborative co-working lab space run in partnership with Canterbury Christ Church University. The CoLab space is designed with growing start-ups in mind, offering access to specialist lab equipment and a wider innovation ecosystem. The CoLab is an affordable and flexible option for starting and scaling companies, helping businesses to go further by spending less on rent, and more on talent, equipment and research. 

 

Mehak Mumtaz, Chief Operating Officer at iLoF, commented: 

“Our optical technology platform is accelerating medicine towards a new, personalised era, where clinical trials and treatments can be easily matched to the patient. We are growing rapidly, making Discovery Park the perfect fit as our new home, offering flexibility for our next stage of growth. We’re already exploring synergies with other Discovery Park tenants, demonstrating the benefits of being part of this exciting ecosystem.” 

 

MilaK founder, Milena Hutchings, said: 

“MilaK is building a platform for functional nutrition to support human health, whilst also being better for the environment. Our new R&D base at Discovery Park gives access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and opportunities to collaborate with other UK biotech innovators. This allows the team to accelerate our early-stage research timelines. We’ve been truly impressed by the facilities and ethos at Discovery Park and the support we have received through CoLab, together with Canterbury Christ Church University.”

 

Chris Broom, Head Of Business Development at Discovery Park, said: 

“We’re delighted to welcome both iLoF and MilaK to CoLab at Discovery Park. These companies represent exactly the kind of innovative, science-led businesses that thrive in our collaborative ecosystem. MilaK’s sustainable approach to protein production and iLoF’s AI-driven personalised medicine platform both address critical global challenges in health and sustainability. Their presence here strengthens Kent’s position as a leading destination for biotech companies developing technologies to shape our future.”

 

These two latest additions bring Discovery Park’s tenant community to over 180 companies, spanning biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and advanced manufacturing. The park provides state-of-the-art laboratory and office facilities, along with amenities focused on work/life balance, including gyms, restaurants and a tenant-led community garden. 

Both companies will benefit from Discovery Park’s comprehensive support ecosystem, with networking opportunities with established pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. The park has strong connections to the wider South East England life sciences cluster, with a thriving network of researchers, service providers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders.

 

About iLoF

iLoF is a deep tech digital health company pioneering Optomics®: a breakthrough Al-platform designed to accelerate the future of personalised medicine, ingesting massive amounts of data to build a comprehensive digital library of biomarkers and biological profiles.

Recognised by CB Insights as one of the top Digital Health companies in the world, and by the Financial Times as a Transformational Business in Healthcare, iLoF is supported by leading investors like Microsoft Ventures, Lunar Ventures, and Faber.

Learn more: www.ilof.tech

 

About MilaK

MilaK is a pioneering biotech startup founded by entrepreneur Milena Hutchings, redefining the future of nutrition through precision fermentation. Positioned at the intersection of science, sustainability, and wellness, MilaK develops next-generation, animal-free whey proteins designed to support not only muscle growth but faster recovery, immune function, and cellular health – without compromising on ethics or the environment.

Backed by Innovate UK funding and collaborations with global experts in microbial fermentation, MilaK boasts a robust multidisciplinary team led by technical lead Saba Khan, alongside medical research scientists from Cambridge University. Together, they are developing a proprietary formulation combining human-identical proteins with bioactive components to support recovery, resilience, and longevity.

Learn more: milak.uk

 

About Discovery Park 

Discovery Park is one of the UK’s leading science and innovation campuses, providing a dynamic base for life science companies ranging from early-stage start-ups to global corporations. Located in Kent, with excellent connectivity to London and Europe, Discovery Park offers an ideal environment for businesses to start, scale and succeed.

With more than 180 companies on site including Pfizer, Asymchem, Viatris, Concept Life Sciences, Resolian, Psyros Diagnostics, York Bio, and VisusNano, Discovery Park is home to a thriving ecosystem of innovators. The 220-acre site offers cutting-edge laboratories, flexible office and manufacturing space, and a highly supportive infrastructure tailored to the needs of science and technology businesses.

As part of its commitment to nurturing innovation, Discovery Park is home to CoLab, a shared laboratory facility developed in partnership with Canterbury Christ Church University, offering flexible bench space and technical support to early-stage companies. In addition, the Discovery Spark programme equips science and tech founders with the commercial skills, strategic insights, and investor-readiness needed to grow sustainably.

Recognised as a Life Science Opportunity Zone, Discovery Park benefits from a robust utilities infrastructure, 100% renewable electricity, and a strong pipeline of local STEM talent, underpinned by partnerships with leading academic institutions. With its strategic location, vibrant community, and access to finance through its own fund, Discovery Park Ventures, the campus plays a central role in Kent’s flourishing science and technology cluster and is an extension of the UK’s prestigious Golden Triangle.

 

Interested in joining us at Discovery Park? Contact us here.