Today, we’re excited to welcome Sarah Teichmann to Gravity Encounters.

As Professor of Stem Cell Biology at the University of Cambridge and Vice President for Translational Research at GSK, Sarah has had a profound impact on single-cell genomics, immunology, and translational medicine.

Previously, she held positions at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, the European Bioinformatics Institute, and the Wellcome Sanger Institute, where she led large-scale single-cell projects that have transformed our understanding of human health and disease.

Sarah has co-founded Transition Bio and EnsoCell Therapeutics, applying single-cell and spatial genomics technologies, AI, and machine learning to drive novel therapeutic discovery. In addition, she is co-founder and co-leader of the international Human Cell Atlas consortium, which aims to create comprehensive reference maps of every human cell type.

Today, we’ll explore Sarah’s journey, from working on the fundamental principles of cell biology to leading global consortia and companies at the forefront of translational research.

Hosts: Emily James and Claudia Smith

In this episode, we’re delighted to welcome Professor Anne Ferguson-Smith. Anne is a globally recognised expert in mammalian genetics and epigenetics, and currently holds the Arthur Balfour Professorship of Genetics at Cambridge. Her research investigates how epigenetic mechanisms regulate genome function, with a focus on how genetic and environmental factors influence development, health, and disease. She is also the Executive Chair of the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) and the former Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research and International Partnerships at the University of Cambridge.

In this conversation, Anne shares insights into her journey into science, the vital role of epigenetics in understanding complex biological systems, and her leadership path in research and policy.

This episode was recorded a while ago, so some of the information may be out of date.

Hosts: Laura Ryan and Laura Lungu

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

In this episode, we’re delighted to welcome Alan Rigby to Gravity Encounters. With a career spanning academia, biotech, and drug discovery, Alan has made a significant impact on cancer research and immunotherapy. From his time as an Assistant Professor at Harvard to leading multiple innovative companies, he has been at the forefront of tumor biology, computational drug discovery, and antibody therapeutics. Now the CEO of Epitopea, Alan continues to drive breakthroughs in the field, shaping the future of cancer immunotherapies and vaccines.

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

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

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

Today, we’re excited to welcome Michael Anstey to Gravity Encounters, Partner at Cambridge Innovation Capital. With a career that bridges science, entrepreneurship, and venture capital, Mike has been a driving force behind some of biotech’s most exciting innovations. From earning a DPhil in neurobiology at Oxford to co-founding a company whilst working at BCG, and guiding startups like Bicycle Therapeutics, his journey is a testament to the power of bold ideas and calculated risks. As a leader at Cambridge Innovation Capital and co-founder of Innovate Cambridge, Mike is shaping the future of biotech and the innovation ecosystem. Today, we’ll dive into the moments, challenges, and insights that have defined his extraordinary path.

Hosts: Emily James and Jan Venne

Today, we’re joined by Mark O'Connor, a pioneer in the field of oncology R&D, whose work has significantly impacted the way we approach cancer treatment. With over 30 years of experience, our guest serves as Chief Scientist in AstraZeneca’s Oncology R&D division, providing scientific leadership to a team of more than 150 researchers. Specializing in DNA damage response (DDR) biology, he has been instrumental in the discovery and development of groundbreaking cancer therapies, including olaparib (Lynparza), the first-in-class PARP inhibitor approved for clinical use.

In this episode, we delve into his remarkable journey—from earning a Ph.D. in Biochemistry at Bristol University to conducting postdoctoral research in Singapore, and ultimately leading the development of AstraZeneca’s industry-leading DDR pipeline. He shares insights from his time at the Cambridge start-up KuDOS, which laid the foundation for the success of Lynparza. We also discuss his commitment to building global collaborations and driving innovation that translates scientific discoveries into life-changing medicines for patients.

Tune in for a fascinating conversation about scientific leadership, the future of oncology R&D, and how a lifelong passion for advancing cancer care has shaped his life and career.

Hosts: Jan Venne and Claudia Smith