The Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research of Queen’s University Belfast and Fusion Antibodies, a leading antibody discovery and development company have launched a fourth collaboration through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP).

Queen’s Academics Dr Darragh McArt and Professor Christopher Scott who were involved in launching the project were thrilled at the continued partnership, stating, “we are delighted to work collaboratively with Fusion to develop next generation antibody engineering platforms through the integration of software tools to develop novel in silico approaches”. The solution will be integrated into the service offering provided by Fusion Antibodies in antibody engineering, to transform capabilities and competitiveness in the antibody discovery space.

Through the KTP programme, the partnership has recruited software graduate, Ngozi Okereke, to work in Fusion Antibodies on this collaborative project over an 18-month period as its KTP Associate. KTP Associates act as “project managers” on KTPs and the role provides a unique career springboard. See current vacancies for KTP Associates here.

Paul Kerr, CEO of Fusion Antibodies commented “We are delighted to partner with Queen’s University through their Knowledge Transfer Partnership programme.  We have worked with Queen’s on multiple KTPs that have provided us with extraordinary talent and resources. Linking with the brightest minds in academia allows us to add another dimension to the knowledge-based service that we offer in the early stages of antibody discovery and development. “

Lorraine Marks, Head of KTP and Business Engagement Programmes at Queen’s University Belfast added: “I am delighted that Fusion Antibodies are continuing their commitment to the KTP programme and Queen’s University. Their commitment to helping biotech companies deliver treatments for previously unmet medical needs offers graduates an opportunity to learn from both academic and industry experts. KTP sets them on the path to become future industry leaders, bringing to life the strategic plans of an innovative company such as Fusion Antibodies.”

Senior Knowledge Transfer Adviser from the KTN (one of the partners supporting the delivery of KTP), Joel Ferguson added “In developing the plans for this KTP project, it has been a privilege to work with the teams from both Fusion Antibodies and the Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research at Queens University. The company and the academic team form a formidable partnership and I have no doubts that this project will help further build on Fusion’s leading edge capability in antibody engineering”. 

 

About Fusion Antibodies

Fusion Antibodies delivers new technology and innovation throughout early-stage antibody discovery. As a drug discovery and research partner, our scientists increase the pace to the clinic by guiding clients to develop the best antibodies possible. Through the early stages of drug discovery, we enable biotechnology and pharmaceutical organisations towards their end-goal – the provision of treatments that improve the lives of patients throughout the world.

About Queen’s University, Belfast

Queen’s University Belfast is one of the leading universities in the UK and Ireland, with a distinguished heritage and history. With over 24,000 students, 4,200 staff and an annual turnover of some £300m, Queen’s University Belfast plays a unique leadership role in Northern Ireland. As a member of the Russell Group of UK research-intensive universities, Queen’s University Belfast combines excellence in research and education with a student-centred ethos.