Oct 27 2009
An annual award to help scientists commercialise early stage research and enable the exploitation of new and exciting ideas in the field of materials science has been launched.
The £25,000 Venture Prize has been donated by the Armourers & Brasiers livery company, a leading supporter of materials science education and research.
Applications are welcome from all British based materials scientists whether linked to a major UK university department or working in industry.
Entries are open now and close at end January 2010. Details can be obtained from www.armourersandbrasiers.co.uk – Venture Prize or emailing [email protected] or calling 0207 374 4000
The 2009 winners were a team of scientists from the University of Liverpool led by senior lecturer Dr Rachel Williams and senior lecturer in oral surgery, Dr Luke Dawson. This team is developing a cost effective nanoparticle silica coating which can inhibit the build up of virulent oral thrush and potentially bring relief to the estimated 3.5 million UK sufferers. Winning the £25,000 Armourers & Brasiers Venture Prize is allowing this project to proceed to clinical evaluation.
“We want to stimulate and encourage British based materials science development and are looking to reward people who have the ambition to turn innovative scientific concepts and ideas into reality,” said Professor Bill Bonfield chairman of the Armourers & Brasiers Venture Prize judging panel. “We are asking all entrants to submit an outline business plan showing the potential for long term commercial success.”