Founders & Funders Event: Entrepreneurship/Life Sciences
Join us on Wednesday, the 30th of September 2026, for innovation and entrepreneurship-themed talks, followed by an informal networking social. Please note that spaces are limited. Approval is required for the talks, while the pub social is open to all.
This edition is in special collaboration with Advanced Research Clusters (ARC Oxford), as they will discuss Motherlabs, a new science accelerator space for early-stage science, technology, and innovation businesses in Oxford.
📅 When:
Wednesday, 30th of September, 2026
🕓 Schedule:
16:00–17:00 – Meet & Greet with the Speakers
17:00–18:00 – Talks, Panel, and Q&A
18:00–20:00 – Drinks, Nibbles & Networking
🎤 Speakers:
Sebastian Johnson (Director of Ecosystems, Harwell Campus and ARC Group)
Sebastian Johnson is a leader in the UK’s innovation and investment landscape, currently driving growth and collaboration as part of the ARC Group and Harwell Science and Innovation Campus. With a career spanning private, public and charity sectors, Sebastian previously played a pivotal role in Government bodies and local authorities, fostering economic development and supporting the Oxford region’s world-leading science and technology ecosystem. Passionate about creating opportunities for cutting-edge companies and innovators, he remains dedicated to advancing the UK’s and Oxford’s position as a global hub for research, development, and investment.
Deborah Spencer (Health & Tech Lead at ARC West London)
Dr Deborah Spencer EMBA is Health & Tech Lead at ARC West London, where she leads the development of partnerships, programmes and innovation networks that support the growth of emerging science and technology companies. She has extensive experience connecting industry, academia, healthcare and research organisations, having previously worked with the University of Oxford and across a range of life sciences and innovation initiatives. At ARC West London, Deborah has been instrumental in developing the Motherlabs ecosystem and fostering collaborations with organisations including Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Paddington Life Sciences and Charing Cross Hospital, helping founders access the expertise, facilities and networks needed to scale.
Infinitopes
ARC Oxford's first MotherLabs member, Infinitopes, will also be represented by a member of its leadership team. They will share the company's journey to becoming one of the UK's most exciting biotechnology businesses, providing insights into their growth, ambitions and the value of being part of a connected innovation ecosystem.
📍 Where:
Speakers Meet & Greet: Oxford Edge, 37 St Giles’, Oxford OX1 3LD
Talks & Panel: Oxford Edge, 37 St Giles’, Oxford OX1 3LD
Networking Social: Lamb & Flag, 12 St Giles’, Oxford OX1 3JS
This series is a unique opportunity to connect with staff, students, and alumni from across the University with interests in tech, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Our September 30th edition is powered by the Founders & Funders Foundation.
🔗 Sign up now to secure your place – spaces are limited!
📩 For any questions, contact us at: info@foundersfunders.tech