Impact of our Research
Our research is making an impact in society - see examples below. Our research areas are:
- Chemical, Structural and Synthetic Biology
- Materials & Polymers
- Measurement and Modelling
- Synthesis & Catalysis
We are also happy to discuss any areas with potential collaborators.
If you would like to enquire about working with Warwick then please contact:
Lesley Chikoore (Research Impact Co-ordinator); lesley dot chikoore at warwick dot ac dot uk
We engage with hundreds of partners in collaborative research. Below are some examples of spin-out companies and collaborations making an impact in the wider world:
Epsilon3Bio - Drug discovery
New drug molecules that show great potential as a treatment for diseases such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and its most severe form non-alcoholic steatohepatitis have been developed from Warwick research. The company Epsilon3Bio is further developing the drug candidates.
Unilever - 'Regenerate' toothpaste
The development of an electrochemical scanning platform at Warwick and collaborations with Unilever have led to applications of the platform in testing a range of new toothpaste formulations to reduce acid erosion of tooth enamel. The toothpaste, marketed as ‘Regenerate’ has been sold globally, leading to commercial and health benefits.
Biome Bioplastics - Biodegradable plastic from lignin
Lignin is a naturally occurring polymer found in plant cell walls, that is also a by-product of pulp and paper manufacture. Warwick researchers are collaborating with Biome Bioplastics to produce a biodegradable plastic from lignin, with a range of opportunities for application in the packaging, catering and cosmetics sectors.
ValiSEEK - Drug discovery
Research at Warwick has resulted in the development of ‘Magic Tag’ technology which identifies interactions between drugs and protein fragments. Application of Magic Tag has enabled the invention of a cancer drug candidate VAL401, which has now cleared phase II clinical trials and heading for phase III. The company ValiSEEK is further developing VAL401.
Unilever - Sweat pore mapping and diagnostics
Collaboration with Unilever has led to the development of a range of hydrogel devices and sensors that collect and monitor chemicals present in perspiration. This research has the potential to change the way the cosmetics industry collects data and monitors product improvements, leading to significant economic savings.
Medherant - Pain relief through transdermal patches
Medherant, a spin-out from Warwick research has produced and patented transdermal patches which include a novel Ibuprofen TEPI® Patch which provides targeted delivery of the drug directly through the skin, at a consistent dose rate. Phase 1 clinical trials have been successfully completed in September 2018. These patches should improve patient experience, enhance safety and bring economic benefits to the healthcare system. Medherant are currently developing medicinal cannabinoid patches and solutions for delivery of drugs to combat Alzheimer’s.
Interface Polymers - Enabling adhesion between otherwise incompatible materials
Polarfin™ additives developed by Warwick spin-out Interface Polymers modify the surface properties of the most commonly used plastics, enabling adhesion to otherwise incompatible materials. Applications for Polarfin™ products include the packaging, automotive and recycling sectors.
What do we mean by Impact?
Impact is the difference that our research is making in people's lives; for social, health, economic or cultural benefit.
Ways we ensure Impact
- Access to Analytical & Research Facilities
- Collaborative Research
- LabStart for Start-up companies
- Licensing and Spin-out activity