Innovation at Imperial
Join a dynamic collective of change-makers and bold thinkers based in a world-class environment. You’ll find the tools, talent and support to move faster and further at Imperial.
Help your startup get ahead
Gain insider access to Imperial’s top-tier capabilities
At Imperial you will find a unique community of great minds focused on solving real-world problems, reshaping industries and building a more resilient and sustainable future. As the UK’s only university dedicated solely to STEMB (science, technology, engineering, medicine and business), and consistently ranked among the world’s top ten, our environment acts as a catalyst for your innovation.
The Incubator team connects Members to Imperial’s resources: getting them access to the kind of facilities and contacts that would usually be out of reach to startups. Ventures based here tap into the research of world-leading academics, recruit from an international talent pool and build their networks through focused events and introductions.
How Imperial delivers for innovators
Step into our unique innovation ecosySTEM
Specialist equipment and facilities
The Advanced Hackspace
Imperial’s Advanced Hackspace is a specialist maker space for STEM innovation based in White City. The facility includes an electronic and digital manufacturing workshop, metal and wood workshop and a bio lab.
With access to specialist equipment and a collaborative, cross-disciplinary community, the Hackspace offers an environment where creativity and innovation thrive. Whether turning a new concept into a physical prototype or refining a particular technical step, members benefit from specialist resources and technical expertise to progress their project to the next level.
The Royce Institute
The Royce Institute is the UK’s national institute for advanced materials research and innovation.
Imperial has partnered with Royce to create a facility on the White City campus where industry and academia can collaborate to make, test and characterise new types of materials, components and systems.
The space has advanced capabilities in thin film deposition, patterning and milling, electrical testing, and cutting-edge characterisation techniques.
The Agilent Suite
Based in Imperial’s Molecular Sciences Research Hub (MSRH) in White City, the Agilent Measurement Suite is a 120 m2 advanced scientific measurement facility and analytical laboratory. It provides unrivalled capabilities to apply the latest measurement technologies to research in areas such as clinical diagnostics, biopharmaceuticals, energy and chemicals, environmental science, food testing and agriculture and materials research.
Equipment housed in the suite includes mass spectrometry, chromatography, spectroscopy and cell analysis systems.
SynbiCITE
SynbiCITE is the UK’s national knowledge centre for commercialising engineering biology. Based at Imperial, SynbiCITE supports engineering biology startups with access to facilities (including subsidised use of the London Biofoundry and pilot-scale manufacturing), alongside training, mentorship and technical expertise. Startups can also benefit from targeted funding through Proof of Concept and Prototype Development schemes, designed to help de-risk innovation and demonstrate commercial potential.
With strong ties to leading universities, investors and industry partners, SynbiCITE supports science-based startups to grow faster, attract funding and bring sustainable bio-based solutions to market.
The London Biofoundry
Based at Imperial’s White City campus, the London Biofoundry specialises in the design, engineering, and functional characterisation of synthetic DNA and organisms. As a facilitator of academic and industrial collaboration, it drives the development and commercialisation of synthetic biology solutions.
Their facilities are designed to have everything companies need to fast-track their biology projects: from building novel workflows with young companies to support the proof of concept stage, to working with SMEs and large companies and manufacturers to deliver on specific R&D projects.
The Department of Bioengineering
The Department of Bioengineering provides a range of advanced facilities and services to support startups working in biomedical innovation across molecular and cellular biomedical engineering, fabrication and analysing.
Its micro-and nanofabrication facilities are dedicated to developing micro and nano-scale technologies, such as lab-on-chip and organ-on-chip technologies. The Bionanofabrication Clean Room Core Facility (based at Imperial’s White City campus) offers equipment and processes to bring microfabrication technologies to biology and biomedical applications. It supports high resolution microfluidics projects, medical nanodevices, nanosensors and cell interfacing devices.
The Faculty of Medicine Musculoskeletal Lab
The Musculoskeletal (MSk) Lab, situated within the Sir Michael Uren building at the White City Campus, offers state-of-the-art facilities to support startups and researchers seeking to understand musculoskeletal health and degeneration and to prevent and treat a wide array of problems associated with impaired mobility.
The lab features specialised spaces for biomechanics, simulation techniques, neurophysiology and 3D printing. These include motion analysis systems, an instrumented treadmill, surgical skills lab and a high-end SLS (selective laser sintering) 3D printer for developing patient-specific guides and instruments for orthopaedic surgery.
UK Dementia Research Institute at Imperial (UKDRI)
The UK DRI Centre at Imperial exists to pursue innovative, early-stage science advancing an understanding of how dementias develop.
Its interdisciplinary team works to understand the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-causing diseases. Located in the Sir Michael Uren Hub on the White City campus, the centre has human experimental laboratories to support electrophysiological studies, non-invasive brain stimulation and cognitive assessment, as well as the Imperial Living Lab which provides a model home environment for technology development and validation.
The Bezos Centre for Sustainable Protein
One of only three centres of its kind globally, the Bezos Centre for Sustainable Protein at Imperial has been established to address one of the greatest challenges of our time: global food security.
Its goal is to create affordable, nutritious and environmentally sustainable alternatives to conventional meat by accelerating the adoption of alternative proteins. It is driving innovation across precision fermentation, cultivated meat, bioprocessing, nutrition and AI.
Alongside its research, the Centre also works to shape public policy and build a supportive regulatory landscape – strengthening global food systems and opening up new economic opportunities in the rapidly evolving sustainable protein sector.
LMS NIHR Flow Cytometry Facility
The LMS/NIHR Flow Cytometry Facility at Imperial aims to facilitate biomedical research by providing a specialist service in flow cytometric analysis and cell sorting.
The facility is supported by the Medical Research Council (MRC) at the Laboratory of Medical Sciences (LMS), the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) and Imperial Biomedical Research Centre (BRC).
They provide cell sorting services, one-to-one consultations, training and access to instrumentation to support research needs in conventional, spectral and imaging flow cytometry.
Facility for Imaging by Light Microscopy (FILM)
FILM provides access to advanced light microscopy equipment alongside full training and expert support. From basic imaging to cutting-edge techniques like multiphoton and fluorescence lifetime imaging, the facility is designed to support users at all levels of experience.
In addition to microscopy equipment, other tools and guidance includes access to software and expertise in image data analysis, general microscopy education and opportunities for knowledge exchange and networking.
Clinical Trials Laboratory Services
Clinical Trials Laboratory Services (CTLS) supplies the scientific community with human blood products and biological specimens collected at its IRB-approved donor centre in compliance with HTA UK regulations.
Conveniently co-located on the White City campus and with over 30 years experience in supporting the development of therapeutics and in vitro diagnostic assays, startups benefit from its expertise in designing and implementing clinical trials.
Support programmes and networks
The Enterprise Lab
Imperial Enterprise Lab (E-Lab) helps students, staff and recent alumni build entrepreneurial skills, networks, and ventures.
Through programmes like Imperial Venture Mentoring, founders receive tailored advice from experienced entrepreneurs and investors, creating access to valuable insights and connections.
Investment Services Office Hours provides investor readiness support to founders. Once a startup is actively raising, the Investment Services Portal allows ventures to showcase their proposition to a network of over 500 Angels and VCs, complemented by in-person pitch events.
The Green Tech Legal Collaborative provides pro bono legal support to climate-positive and sustainability-focused startups. Launched by Bloomberg and Imperial with City law firms Willkie Farr & Gallagher and Ropes & Gray, it helps founders navigate key legal areas – such as investment, supplier contracts and founder agreements – to ease the path to market.
Undaunted
Undaunted is a hub for the UK’s climate innovation community. Over more than a decade, this partnership between Imperial and The Royal Institution has developed and refined a model for accelerating applicable, practical and adaptable solutions that make a difference on a global scale.
Undaunted aims to make London and the UK a great place to start and scale intelligent, sustainable solutions to the climate challenge at pace. Its portfolio of programmes supports the acceleration of startups and SMEs tackling climate change at different stages of their entrepreneurship journey.
Scale Space White City
Scale Space White City is a dedicated innovation space and vibrant community engineered to give businesses access to the right people, services and space they need to grow.
Located on Imperial’s White City campus and developed in partnership with Blenheim Chalcot, it offers flexible office and laboratory spaces designed to support high-growth, science and technology companies. The building houses tailored workspaces, meeting areas and a regular programme of events that bring together venture builders, academics, founders and corporate innovators, creating an environment conducive to scaling innovative ventures.
Frequently asked questions
What types of startups are best suited to Imperial’s Incubator?
We welcome early-stage life science startups requiring wet lab space, such as those working in the fields of novel materials, biotechnology, diagnostics, therapeutics and synthetic biology.
What is included in the monthly licence fee?
Our licence covers access to shared lab benches or private lab space, a shared equipment room, co-working or private office space and infrastructure support such as Wi-Fi, waste disposal and mailroom services.
You say that terms are flexible. What’s the minimum contract duration?
We offer flexible contracts tailored to your stage of growth and evolving needs. Our usual contract duration is a one year license with a two month termination policy on either side.
How do I apply for space in the Incubator?
Please complete our online application form with details about your startup and space requirements in the first instance.
Applications are reviewed based on your stage of development, scientific merit, team strength and alignment with our mission, facilities and existing community.
How long can a startup be based at the Incubator for?
Most Members stay with us between 12 to 36 months, during which time they might have moved premises once or more within the Incubator (for example, from a shared facility to a private lab).
What happens if my startup outgrows the Incubator?
We support your transition into larger facilities through our network of property partners and can assist with planning your relocation.
Do you provide virtual office services?
No, we do not provide virtual office services for non-resident companies. Our support is designed specifically for startups that are actively working on-site within our lab and office spaces.
Do I need to have studied at Imperial for my startup to be considered?
No. We welcome both startups with an existing Imperial connection and those that are new to our community.
What are your safety training and compliance requirements?
All lab users must complete onboarding safety training, adhere to our operating procedures and comply with their own company’s health and safety protocols.
Can I bring in my own specialist lab equipment?
Yes, provided it meets our safety guidelines, has suitable utilities connections and fits within the boundaries of your space. All equipment must be approved by our Lab Manager before installation.
Do you provide access to core scientific equipment?
Absolutely. Our shared equipment room and labs offers access to commonly used instruments such as centrifuges, biosafety cabinets, fumehoods and cold storage (a full list is available upon request).
In addition, Members have access to wider specialist facilities through Imperial’s network such as the Hackspace, the Royce Institute and Agilent Suite (consult our “Innovation at Imperial” webpage for more details).
Is clinical waste disposal included?
Yes. We have clinical waste disposal process as part of your membership. All members are entitled to dispose of 4 free clinical bags per month and the cost thereafter will be £25 per bag.
Please note that chemical waste disposal must be arranged separately, as this is not a service we directly provide. Please contact us if you have a query or specific requirement regarding waste disposal.
Is there Wi-Fi and IT support included?
Yes. We offer secure, high-speed Wi-Fi. IT support is managed through the building owner (for example, Scale Space in White City).
What are the hours of lab access?
Members have 24/7 access to the labs and office areas (some restrictions may apply during Christmas and Easter). Out of office hours, each startup should have their own lone working policy in place if applicable.
What type of business support do you offer?
Members have access to a network of mentors, investors and industry experts. Regular programming includes business seminars, workshops and “meet the expert” sessions.
Can I hire interns and staff through the Incubator?
We are always happy to promote job vacancies on your behalf (for example in our newsletters and on our Linkedin channel, as well as via word of mouth).
The Scale Space Careers Fair offers startups a valuable chance to connect with Imperial's talented students, graduates and researchers - ideal for hiring, internships or building a future talent pipeline.
In addition, The White City Internship Fund gives startups the chance to tap into Imperial’s exceptional student talent. It supports summer internships (minimum eight weeks) focused on growth-driven projects, with businesses receiving a 50% salary contribution toward the cost.
Do you take an equity stake in my startup?
No, the Incubator does not take an equity stake in the startups it supports. For academic founders based at Imperial, the spinout formation process sets out terms and determines how much founding equity the university takes. For more information, visit the Founders Choice webpages.
Is funding available through the Incubator?
The Incubator does not directly fund startups, however we assist Members to access funding. For example the Enterprise Lab's Investment Services provides investment readiness support and our Members newsletter highlights relevant grant opportunities and open calls for competitions. We also host joint events with grant-awarding bodies such as Innovate UK.
Are there opportunities for collaboration among startups in the incubator?
Absolutely. We actively promote collaborating through monthly social events, regular seminars and networking opportunities. Members can also communicate directly via our WhatsApp group. Some of our members go on to do business together.
Are there any types of scientific work not permitted onsite?
WestTech London
A major growth initiative, WestTech London is emerging as a global hub for deep tech and life sciences. It is anchored by key science and technology districts across West London – including South Kensington, Paddington Life Sciences, the White City District, Old Oak and Park Royal.
Home to over 1,000 high-tech businesses, the area is driving job creation, attracting investment and reinforcing the UK’s position as a leader in science and technology. With world-class research institutions, a skilled and diverse talent pool, strong transport connections, access to investment capital, and a rich industrial heritage, WestTech London is poised to become a globally recognised centre for scientific and technological advancement.
Explore more
What we offer
Flexible, fully-equipped lab spaces, expert mentoring and business support, access to Imperial’s talent, research and networks - all within a vibrant, collaborative community of founders on a similar journey.
Who we support
The Incubator supports early-stage startups with flexible wet lab and office space in West London. Our curated community includes ventures working in sectors like medtech, climate solutions, biotech, sustainable fashion and therapeutics.
About us
Operated by Imperial College London - a global top ten university - we’re a non-profit incubator that gives new science a strong start. Early-stage startups tackling some of the world’s toughest challenges call us home.
Case study
Puraffinity: Providing PFAS-free water to one billion people by 2030
Founded by Imperial bioengineering students in 2015, Puraffinity began its journey at the Incubator, developing breakthrough materials to remove PFAS (also known as ‘forever chemicals’) from water. These toxic substances persist in the environment for many years, and have been have been linked to multiple health issues, including cancer.
Inspired by their studies, they initially started by taking part in a competition for new ideas in synthetic biology, After progressing through Imperial Enterprise Lab’s entrepreneurship programmes and Undaunted’s climate accelerator, the company validated its PFAS removal technology through successful lab trials and early commercial pilots.
In 2024, Puraffinity raised £17 million in Series A funding, appointed former Veolia executive Vincent Caillaud as CEO, and expanded into larger facilities at Scale Space to scale up manufacturing.
Henrik Hagemann, Puraffinity’s co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer, working at Imperial Incubator in White City