BioGateway has been launched in Kent

BioGateway aims to become the most complete life science network in Europe and to serve as the gateway between the UK and the rest of Europe.

The launch event, held at Discovery Park in Sandwich, has been attended by figures in the national and international biotech community, investors, academic thought leaders and local and national government. The guest speaker was Dr Mark Treherne, CEO UKTI Life Science Organisation who talked about the landscape of Life Sciences in the UK and how networks like the BioGateway are important to support growth in this sector.

Simon Westbrook, Acting Chairman for BioGateway and CEO Levicept, said: “Kent is home to many leading names in the life sciences sector. Over the last two years, there has been an unprecedented growth in the number of companies moving into the region and Kent has become one of the fastest growing centres for the life sciences in the UK with over 150 companies employing more than 6,800 life science professionals.  As a consequence, Kent found itself hosting a major life science cluster without all of the benefits of an interactive and effective Network.  BioGateway was founded to create a focus for this vibrant community.”

Alex Watson, Chief Operating Officer  BioGateway, said: “BioGateway aims to support its members by facilitating partnering with other companies within Kent and throughout the UK and Europe. BioGateway will also interface and interact with other science networks, associations and institutes, firmly positioning Kent as the connector between the life science sectors in the UK and continental Europe.”