Join the IBI
Open to academics, start-ups, and industry partners, the IBI provides shared laboratories, expert technical staff, and training to speed up the journey from laboratory ideas to real-world healthcare solutions, while also supporting more sustainable manufacturing and better preparedness for future health emergencies.
The Prototyping Facility uses a fee-for-service model, where user fees support equipment maintenance, training, and technical assistance, and enable participation in knowledge-sharing community of likeminded researchers. To join, follow the procedure below.
The IBI offers academic researchers access to world-class infrastructure, enabling them to launch new projects with minimal barriers related to equipment and training. Students benefit from dedicated training and access to standard recipes, streamlining research workflows. Additionally, researchers become part of a vibrant MedTech community, fostering collaboration and innovation.
The IBI provides startups and industry users with prototyping and small-scale manufacturing capabilities. It offers a dedicated environment to test innovations without disrupting ongoing production processes. Users receive a personalised plan for navigating the translational journey and opportunities to interact with the University community.
Procedure for joining the Prototyping Facility
Step 1: Registration. Complete and submit the registration form below:
Step 2: Induction. Once registered, you'll be invited to complete these in-person sessions at the IBI:
- Safety training: Covers chemical safety; add biological safety if using the tissue culture lab.
- Facility induction: Overview of the facility, procedures, and (if applicable) tissue culture area.
- Project review: Our staff offers expert feedback to refine processes, identify risk assessments, and schedule equipment trainings.
Step 3: Equipment trainings: Schedule and complete tailored training for your specific project.
Step 4: Risk assessment: Sign an existing risk assessment or complete a new one based on your project scope. Upon approval, you'll gain card access to the facility.
Upon project completion, schedule an exit appointment. Our staff will confirm no personal items remain and invite you to complete a brief user survey.
Costs for use of the Prototyping Facility
Academic users are charged hourly rates for access to the facility, which include a cleanroom access fee and additional charges for specific cleanroom equipment usage.
Industry users are charged monthly rates for facility access, with the option of a discounted annual plan. Please note that some cleanroom tools incur additional hourly fees to cover consumable costs.
For details on current rates, please contact Kirsty Sylvester.
Training resources
Here is a list of training resources available to prospective users