Smart, Whole-process, Integrated, Flexible Technologies (SWIFT)

The Department of UCL Biochemical Engineering is at the forefront of translating cutting-edge research into real world solutions. We offer a dynamic environment for collaboration with academic institutions, startups, SMEs, and global industry leaders. Through flexible research partnerships and contract research services, our state-of-the-art facilities and world-class expertise can help accelerate your innovation goals.

End-to-End Bioprocessing Solutions at UCL SWIFT

Our facilities are purpose built to support a wide range of partners, from agile startups to established organisations looking to optimise, scale, and de-risk their biomanufacturing processes.
We deliver fully integrated upstream and downstream capabilities for both microbial and mammalian systems, enabling flexible engagement across the full development cycle, from early-stage process design to pilot-scale production and technology evaluation. Whether you're developing a novel biological process, scaling an engineering biology product, or trialling emerging technologies, our expert team collaborates closely with you to deliver tailored, cost-effective solutions that shorten time to market.

What We Offer:

Contract Research & Consultancy:

Engage our expert teams to tackle your specific R&D challenges across bioprocessing, cell and gene therapies, cellular agriculture, digitisation, sustainable biomanufacturing, and engineering biology.

Joint Research & Development Projects

Co-develop technologies and help secure funding (Innovate UK, UKRI, or EU-funded projects among several others). Our team has a very strong track record of successful industrial-academic partnerships.

Training & Knowledge Transfer

Bespoke workshops, CPD courses, and placements can be arranged to support workforce development and technical up-skilling.

Who We Support

• Start-Ups: We empower early-stage companies to transform innovative ideas into scalable bioprocesses, attract investment, and enter the market in a highly cost-effective way. Our specialised infrastructure and expert support help reduce both the time and expense of bringing new technologies to life.
• SMEs and Industry Partners: We work with growing companies and established industry leaders to optimise bioprocesses, scale up production, and gain access to the latest biomanufacturing technologies. Our flexible, cost-effective collaboration model is designed to accelerate innovation while tailoring support to your specific technical and commercial needs.
• Academic Researchers: We provide academic groups with access to specialised facilities and expert technical support, enabling high-impact research without the need for major infrastructure investment. From proof-of-concept studies to collaborative funded projects

Our Services

• Customised process development and optimisation
• Scale-up and scale-down studies for microbial and mammalian systems
• Novel state of the art technology testing
• Support for grant writing and collaborative funding applications
• Access to academic expertise in cutting-edge synthetic biology, metabolic engineering, and bioprocessing technologies

Facilities Highlights

• Bioreactor Systems (250 mL – 200 L): Lab and pilot-scale for microbial and mammalian cultures
• Single-Use & Perfusion Bioreactors: Flexible platforms up to 50 L
• Downstream Processing: Pilot scale Centrifugation, filtration, homogenisation, chromatography, and ultra scale-down tools
• Product Finishing: On-site spray dryer and freeze dryer
• High-Throughput & Automation:  Customized TECAN platforms, parallel bioreactor systems
• Analytical Support: In-process monitoring and product characterisation

For more detailed information, see our Facilities and Equipment page

Why Work with Us?

• Access leading academic and technical expertise
• Leverage our flexible contract research models
• Accelerate innovation in a cost-effective, scalable environment
• Engage in joint grant applications and co-funded projects
• Explore training and upskilling for your team
• Test and adopt emerging bioprocessing technologies

Common Challenges We Can Help Address

We are able to address common challenges such as:

• Limited access to specialised bioprocessing equipment and facilities
• Gaps in in-house expertise for specific bioprocessing techniques
• The need for rapid and effective process development and scale-up
• Outsourcing requirements for reliable and experienced production support

We welcome enquiries and are available to discuss your specific requirements at any stage of your work.

Community & Partnerships 

UCL SWIFT addresses a key gap commonly found in university-led services. While some facilities offer support alongside their research activities, these services often appear optional rather than integral due to limited structure and capability. By leveraging close partnerships within UCL, SWIFT is uniquely positioned to provide structured, accessible support that goes beyond traditional research packages.

Our approach includes embedded business advisory services, tiered engagement packages tailored to different client needs, and strategic partnership workshops designed to foster collaboration and innovation. These offerings strengthen our community connections and provide clients with valuable resources to accelerate their projects and commercialisation efforts.

Through these initiatives, UCL SWIFT aims to build a vibrant ecosystem that supports translational research and drives impactful partnerships across academia and industry.

Contact Us

For all enquiries related to UCL SWIFT’s services and collaborations, please contact Dr Leonardo Rios (academic lead, Leo.rios@ucl.ac.uk), Dr Yassin Amraoui (technical lead, y.amraoui@ucl.ac.uk) or Dr Olivia Phoenix (Strategic Alliance Manager, olivia.phoenix@ucl.ac.uk)  

Find out more...

• Why Choose UCL Swift?
• Meet The Team
• Facilities & Equipment

 

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