Issue link: https://htpgraphics.uberflip.com/i/1055210
SkinBioTherapeutics Ltd, a life science company focused on skin health, landed Leading Spin-Out while Ian and Lynne Hampson, both molecular virologists, came out on top in the Commercial Licence category for their work on novel uses of lopinavir and ritonavir in HPV related cancers. The Digital Innovation prize went to John Morley of PhraseBank which offers a downloadable phraseology resource to help researchers of all abilities improve their academic writing and Cable Coatings was named as the most Successful Start-up. Application of spectrally optimised coatings to the outside of aerial cables to boost grid capacity in a durable, easy to apply, cost-effective way. Professor Cath O'Neill, the chief executive of skin health company SkinBioTherapeutics, was also revealed as Innovation Champion during the awards ceremony which took place at The University's Innovation Centre, UMIC. Cath has found new ways of promoting and maintaining skin health and combating chronic skin diseases. Her second spinout SkinBioTherapeutics PLC was admitted the AIM market in 2017 and the placing raised £4.7m (gross). Cath acts as a champion for business engagement in FBMH and was named as one of the top 50 female leaders in healthcare business in the UK. UMIP Director of Operations Dr Rich Ferrie paid tribute to all the innovators shortlisted. He said: "In the past we've always nominated our innovators for regional awards. This year we wanted to recognise their hard work and excellence internally so created the UMIP Innovation Awards 2018. "And we're delighted that we held this inaugural event as it was a very positive endorsement and a real opportunity to showcase the breadth of science that we have in this University." He added: "Each who made the shortlist deserved their place and I know from speaking with the judges just how hard it was to pick overall winners in the five categories. "Commercialising science isn't an easy process. The commitment that these individuals who to fit commercialising their science around research, teaching, administration roles and clinical duties is quite something. "They should be commended for their hard work and I hope their journeys are successful ones from here on in." Please see video interviews with the winners here https://umip.com/umip-tv/umip-innovation- awards/