Centuries of craftsmanship and quality assurance have been combined with cutting-edge life sciences innovation by PHTA and the Birmingham Assay Office, who have established a strategic partnership to strengthen capability and drive research development across the region.
Sharing a commitment to scientific integrity and advancing regional growth through collaboration, the two organisations will work together to explore, develop and deliver joint initiatives in precision measurement, testing and certification within the health and life sciences sector.
One of Birmingham’s longest-established institutions, the Birmingham Assay Office was founded in 1773 and has built an international reputation as a leader in hallmarking, precious metals testing and analytical services. Ever evolving with the times, it continues to support 21st century innovation, compliance and consumer protection through its technical excellence in materials science and product certification.
PHTA is the University of Birmingham’s flagship health and life sciences research and development facility, supporting companies and entrepreneurs to design, refine and validate their innovations for clinical adoption and commercialisation – in partnership with academia, NHS and industry.
Professor Gino Martini, Chief Executive of PHTA, said: “I’m delighted that PHTA, a new SME, will be collaborating with a much-loved Birmingham institution, the Assay Office. Together, we will actively identify and pursue initiatives to help life sciences businesses to innovate – whether that’s through access to testing, certification and validation services, support with feasibility studies and pilot programmes, or promoting training and skills development.
“This unique partnership will enhance the innovation ecosystem in Birmingham and the wider West Midlands, and we’re excited to get to work alongside our partners.”
Roxanne Guest, Deputy Chief Executive of Birmingham Assay Office, said: “This partnership is an exciting step forward for Birmingham Assay Office and for the region. Our heritage is built on trust, accuracy and scientific integrity, and those values translate naturally into the health and life sciences space.
“By combining our expertise in materials science and independent certification with PHTA’s world-class innovation environment, we can help life sciences businesses validate their products, meet regulatory expectations and bring new technologies to market with confidence. We’re proud to support Birmingham’s growing innovation economy and look forward to developing impactful projects together.”
