Cambridge Gravity Encounters

By: Jan Venne Claudia Smith Emily James
  • Summary

  • Welcome to Cambridge Gravity Encounters, the podcast where we talk with leaders in the life sciences in academia, industry, and entrepreneurship about the journeys that shaped their paths. We delve into pivotal childhood moments, career-defining risks, groundbreaking innovations, and the lessons that have guided them along the way.

    From navigating transitions between sectors to driving transformative research, we uncover insights and advice for the next generation of life science innovators. Tune in to hear the stories that inspire and the ideas shaping the future of science.

    Website: https://www.gravity.cam.ac.uk/

    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cambridge-gravity/posts/?feedView=all

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cambridgegravity

    Instagram: encounters.cam

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Episodes
  • Episode #12: Professor Madeline Lancaster - Group Leader at the MRC LMB
    Mar 16 2025

    In this episode, we’re joined by Professor Madeline Lancaster, a leading expert in brain development and neuroscience. As a group leader at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Madeline has pioneered the development of brain organoids; 3D models that mimic early human brain development and provide critical insights into neurodevelopmental disorders and evolution.

    Her groundbreaking work has reshaped our understanding of how the human brain forms and functions, with implications for disease modelling and future therapeutics. In this interview, Madeline shares the story behind the discovery and development of brain organoids, the challenges and opportunities they present, and their potential to revolutionise our understanding of the human brain.

    Hosts: Laura Ryan and Laura Lungu

    Link to YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zcTTyafAflo

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    39 mins
  • Episode #11: Professor Allan Bradley - Founder and CEO of T-Therapeutics
    Mar 2 2025

    Today, we’re excited to welcome Allan Bradley to Gravity Encounters. As the Founder and CEO of T-Therapeutics, Allan has had a profound impact on the fields of genomics, monoclonal antibody discovery, and biotech entrepreneurship.

    Previously, as the Director of the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Allan played a pivotal role in transforming its genome-sequencing infrastructure into a world-class research centre. His academic research laid the foundation for Kymab Ltd, a humanised antibody discovery company that led to the development of novel therapeutic antibodies, some of which have demonstrated clinical benefits.

    Beyond Kymab, Allan co-founded PetMedix, applying cutting-edge antibody technologies to animal health. Earlier in his career, he spun out Lexicon Genetics while at Baylor College of Medicine, which went on to a $1 billion NASDAQ debut within just five years. A Fellow of the Royal Society and an expert in mouse genetics, Allan has significantly shaped the biotech landscape.

    Today, we’ll explore Allan’s journey, from academia to building billion-dollar companies, and the scientific and entrepreneurial insights he’s gained along the way.

    Hosts: Emily James and Jan Venne

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    43 mins
  • Episode #10: Dr Alex Teng - Partner at Fifty Years
    Feb 13 2025

    Warning: This podcast contains strong language.

    Today, we’re excited to welcome Alex Teng to Gravity Encounters. As a Partner at Fifty Years, Alex has forged a career at the intersection of science, technology, and entrepreneurship, backing founders who are leveraging cutting-edge innovation to tackle humanity's greatest challenges.

    From his academic foundations at UC Berkeley and Caltech to pioneering environmental research with NASA, his career spans diverse ventures, including building net-zero emission vehicles at Divergent 3D, developing in-nose air filters at AVA, and designing advanced scientific instrumentation to probe the complexities of atmospheric chemistry.

    With a unique blend of scientific expertise and entrepreneurial drive, Alex has consistently demonstrated the power of innovation to create meaningful change. Today, we’ll delve into the experiences, milestones, and insights that have shaped his remarkable path.

    Hosts: Emily James and Jan Venne

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    44 mins

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