Dr Kathryn Chapman takes up new science and entrepreneurship role created for Babraham Research Campus

Babraham Research Campus Ltd, which is responsible for the development and management of the Babraham Research Campus, has appointed Dr Kathryn Chapman to the newly created role of director, science and entrepreneurship.

Further to a research career concentrated on disease modelling and target discovery at the University of Manchester, Harvard Medical School, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute and GlaxoSmithKline, Kathryn’s focus shifted to initiating and directing various initiatives which fed her passion for creating synergy and impact between academic/business and business to business partnerships.

Prior to joining the Babraham Research Campus, Kathryn established and led the Milner Therapeutics Institute at the University of Cambridge, providing strategic oversight and management of the institute and all associated outreach and collaboration activities.

Derek Jones, CEO, Babraham Research Campus Ltd, said: “I am thrilled to welcome Kathryn to the team. Her exceptional experience and passion for uniting and connecting people across the Cambridge bioscience ecosystem and skill in identifying innovative opportunities across disciplines, funding schemes, investors, incubator and accelerator programmes will be invaluable as we continue to drive the development of the Campus forward.

“Our Campus ecosystem has evolved to support the scientific discoveries of tomorrow by nurturing and supporting people, companies and ideas at every stage of the development cycle. We do this, not only by providing the appropriate buildings and facilities, but also by creating the community and connections required to fuel innovation and discovery. Kathryn’s energy and leadership will enable us to continue to develop impactful science and entrepreneurship activities that will make a positive, tangible difference not only to those on Campus but also beyond.”

Simon Cook, Institute director, Babraham Institute, said: “I am delighted to welcome Kathryn to her new role for work that reflects our shared passion for people, innovation and benefit. Having worked with Kathryn in her previous role at the Milner I know we are lucky to have her experience, energy and enthusiasm.”

Kathryn said: “My passion is to unite life science discoveries with real-world challenges, ultimately bringing solutions to patients. This role brings a huge opportunity to ignite this on the Babraham Research Campus, which has a rich history of converting innovative research into commercial reality.

“The exceptional research, talent and entrepreneurship at our fingertips means we have everything we need to grow the campus and maintain its position as one of the best places in the world to start, scale and grow a bioscience company. It’s an incredibly exciting time to join the team.”

Following a review of the key features of the programme under Kathryn’s leadership, Accelerate@Babraham will relaunch at the beginning of 2023.