SynBio Business Basics

What is the course?

As part of SynbiCITE’s drive to commercialise engineering biology through taking R&D excellence in the lab to the development of tools, products, processes and services for high-value manufacturing industries, we have created a ‘SynBio Business Basics’ course to help develop the natural entrepreneurship that is so keenly demonstrated across our wide range of partners.

This interactive course covers the main strategies required to establish, build and manage a company built around engineering biology. Particular focus will be given to the early stages of setting up a company – getting funding and understanding the wider reaches of IP – and will be presented along with case studies from experts in these areas.

This course is ideal for biotech leaders of the future using engineering biology, especially those in early-stage businesses or looking to start their own company in the field.

Who should apply?

The course is aimed at budding entrepreneurs, from postgraduates and postdocs to seasoned academics, who want to gain a thorough understanding of the biotech sector and how to start a biotech-based business, in particular one based around using engineering biology.

We’re inviting participants from our SynbiCITE partners and are looking for anyone with an entrepreneurial spirit with R&D that could be turned into potentially innovative products, tools, services or processes. You could be a postdoc, a previous iGEM competition participant, an academic, or working in a company with a great idea that is a proven concept that might be commercialised through a spin-out or start-up company.

There are a limited number of spaces available for those who want to commit to taking part; participants will be selected on the basis of their application and potential to take their inspiration to innovation and beyond. Teams of two–three (e.g. one scientist, one engineer and one business person) are encouraged to apply.

The course will take place at Imperial College London and is free of charge, although participants will be expected to make their own travel and accommodation arrangements.

• Industry: Understand the engineering sector while exploring current and future challenges.
• Leadership: Identify key leadership traits for success, learn about the responsibilities of a CEO, and understand the importance of mentoring and coaching in engineering biology.
• Commercialisation: Learn how to transform a good idea into a viable business opportunity and define your market opportunity.
• Intellectual Property: Understand the basics of IP protection and why it’s crucial to building a defensible business that attracts investment.

• Funding: Explore the securing of funding, how much to raise and when, how to value your company, and how to pitch to investors.
• Operations: Develop an understanding of operational strategy and how to align scientific, commercial, and operational goals.
• People: People-management skillsConsider when and how to build a team. Learn the value of clear communication.