Small and medium sized healthcare and life sciences companies across the West Midlands region are being invited to a free event to gain the tools and skills they need to collaborate on research with the NHS and academics.
The West Midlands Academic Health Science Network (WMAHSN) has organised the event, on 15 July at The Studio in central Birmingham, to showcase successful SME collaborations with the NHS, universities and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) infrastructure. The event, Supporting SMEs to conduct health research, will also highlight new initiatives to support SMEs and provide opportunities in workshops and other sessions for company representatives to raise the research challenges they face and identify potential solutions.
Tony Davis, Commercial Director at the WMAHSN, said: “West Midlands-based NHS organisations and universities conduct significant amounts of world-leading clinical research in partnership with industry.
“Much of the research conducted is with large pharmaceutical companies, but SMEs, with products including medical devices and digital tools, often find it difficult to undertake research with the NHS, universities, networks and other infrastructure. To address these concerns, we have organised this free event to support small and medium sized business and give them practical guidance in navigating the world of research.”
There will be a range of speakers, spanning the NHS, university and commercial sectors, and a “curiosity corner” will allow delegates to rotate among a number of regional experts. Refreshments and lunch will be provided.
For more information and details on how to register, go to visit the West Midlands Academic Health Science Network website.