The latest Business updates from the science industry
Highlighting women in science: An interview with Dr Zoe Hewitt by Gwyneth Astles
In celebration of the 10th anniversary of the United Nations’ International Day of Women and Girls in Science on 11th February 2025, AMSBIO sat down with Dr Zoe Hewitt, a leading expert in cell and gene therapy manufacturing and co-founder of Regen CTC.
In this engaging Q&A session, Dr Hewitt shared her unexpected path into the scientifi c fi eld, discusses the ongoing challenges women face in science, and offers practical strategies to enhance diversity within the life sciences. She talks about the inspirations behind her scientifi c journey, the vital role of early role models, her groundbreaking work developing cells for a pioneering blindness therapy, and the steps companies and individuals can take to support women in science.
Refl ecting on a signifi cant milestone in her career, Dr. Hewitt said: “One of my proudest moments was in 2010, working on a project led by Pete Coffey at UCL that helped develop a stem cell therapy for blindness. My team manufactured the starting material for the Master Cell Bank that supported the ‘London Project to Cure Blindness’, which aims to restore vision in patients with macular degeneration. Knowing that people are walking around London today, able to see because of RPE cells differentiated from cells generated in our clean room, is incredible.”
When asked about the actions needed to promote diversity in life science research, Dr Hewitt emphasised the importance of challenging stereotypes from an early age, fostering mentorship and networking opportunities, encouraging equitable hiring practices, and creating workplace environments that support diverse employees.
To read the full interview, visit:
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AMSBIO provides a comprehensive range of high-quality stem cell products, including fresh tissues from diverse donors and disease states, cell lines, and custom pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) generation services. Their innovative growth media, supplements, and reagents ensure optimal stem cell culture conditions, while cryopreservation and differentiation solutions maintain cell integrity and functionality.
AMSBIO’s GMP-compliant manufacturing products and services also facilitate a smooth transition from research to clinical applications.
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The Cleanroom team from The University of Sheffield which provided the Master Cell Bank for the ‘London Project to Cure Blindness’.
Dr Zoe Hewitt.
New facility partnership to advance early-stage clinical trials
Celerion, a leader in early clinical research, has announced its new collaboration with iREACH Health, an innovative clinical research centre located at Queen’s University Belfast. Set to open in early 2027, this partnership will see Celerion’s UK Phase 1 clinical research operations relocated to a cutting-edge facility, solidifying its role as a leader in advancing life sciences in Northern Ireland.
The agreement builds on more than three decades of research excellence from Celerion’s Belfast clinic. By relocating to iREACH Health, Celerion enhances its position in an ecosystem rich in medical and academic expertise, collaborating with local government, industry leaders, and researchers to push the boundaries of novel therapies. This state-of-the-art facility will serve as a focal point for the clinical development of transformative medicines.
The iREACH Health centre, situated near Belfast City Hospital, will house a 100-bed Phase 1 clinical trial facility designed to Celerion’s high standards. In addition to the clinical infrastructure, the centre will support a dedicated team of early development specialists focused
on data management, medical writing, biometrics, and adaptive study design. This team will work to optimise trial outcomes and provide clients with faster, more accurate data-driven insights.
“We’re thrilled to expand our presence at such an innovative centre,” said Phil Bach, Executive Vice President of Global Clinical Research at Celerion. “This move will signifi cantly enhance the effi ciency of our Phase 1 studies and accelerate timelines for our clients, ultimately advancing drug development and improving patient access to breakthrough therapies.”
Professor Judy Bradley, CEO of iREACH Health, hihjlighted the impact of the collaboration, saying, “By partnering with Celerion, we’re working to reshape clinical trial capabilities in Northern Ireland. Our goal is to create agile, patient-centric trials that harness the power of data and digital innovation. This partnership will not only transform healthcare but also contribute to the region’s economic growth.”
Queen’s University Belfast’s iREACH Health.
More information online:
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Celebrating 50 years of excellence in healthcare and science Alpha Laboratories proudly celebrates its 50th
anniversary this year, marking fi ve decades of dedicated support to clinicians, scientists, and patients worldwide. Since its founding in 1975, Alpha Laboratories has established itself as a trusted provider of laboratory consumables, liquid handling supplies, diagnostic solutions, and laboratory equipment.
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David Giles, a founding member and Chairman, played a pivotal role in driving the company forward with passion and a commitment to scientifi c innovation. That legacy endures today, with Alpha Laboratories maintaining a reputation for delivering high-quality products that support critical research and healthcare applications. Despite the industry’s evolution, the company has remained steadfast in its core mission: to enhance scientifi c
progress and improve lives. Alpha’s values - centred on People, Planet, and Culture - are refl ected in its team’s expertise, professionalism, and active engagement in local communities and environmental initiatives.
With expertise spanning routine laboratory supplies to advanced clinical diagnostics, Alpha Laboratories has built a strong presence across various scientifi c disciplines. In particular, the company is a leader in Faecal Immunochemical and Calprotectin testing, providing
essential solutions that support timely, accurate diagnoses and improved patient outcomes.
“Reaching 50 years is a testament to the dedication of our team and the trust our customers place in us,” said Rob Vint, Managing Director of Alpha Laboratories. “As we look to the future, we remain committed to
driving innovation, advancing healthcare, and delivering sustainable solutions. Our journey has been shaped by strong collaborations with healthcare professionals, researchers, and suppliers, and we take pride in our role in supporting scientifi c progress. While much has evolved over the years, our core values of integrity, collaboration, and making a meaningful difference have remained unchanged. We are excited for the future and look forward to continuing to serve the scientifi c and medical communities for many years to come.”
As Alpha Laboratories commemorates this milestone, it remains focused on innovation, sustainability, and global healthcare advancements, ensuring its continued impact in the industry for years ahead.
More information online:
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