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