Fusion brings research to the market

A Yorkshire-based company is working to provide the support researchers need to turn innovative ideas into commercially-viable products.

Fusion IP, which is based at the University of Sheffield's Bio-incubator, has signed a ten-year deal for the rights to the institution's research pipeline, according to the Financial Times.

Universities are very good at creating world-leading research but not so good at knowing what would make a company

David Baynes

CEO

Fusion IP

David Baynes, Chief Executive of company, revealed there are several stages the firm takes to help a start-up bring innovations to the market, such as using a professional manager who will help establish a business plan and determine funding requirements.

When the product is believed to be at a marketable stage, Fusion IP seeks new investors for the project, with larger enterprises eventually being sold to venture capitalists or listed on the London junior market.

Explaining the role his firm plays, Mr Baynes told the newspaper: "Universities are very good at creating world-leading research but not so good at knowing what would make a company.

Among the start-ups Fusion has worked with are cell-transplantation technology company Abcellute, alternative energy firm Biohydrogen and Medella Therapeutics, which is creating new antibody drugs for cancerous tumours.