Join Dr. Dave Hughes for the next GCoSI Deep Dive at Glasgow Science Centre, exploring entrepreneurship, invention and building deep technology in Glasgow.

Glasgow has always been a city of ideas — from engineering breakthroughs on the River Clyde to scientific and medical innovations that have shaped industries worldwide. Today, that inventive spirit is carried forward by founders, researchers and innovators turning ambitious ideas into real-world companies.

This GCoSI Deep Dive explores what it really takes to build a startup in Glasgow — tracing a line from historic invention to modern deep technology and wearable innovation. It looks beyond theory to the lived realities of spinouts, entrepreneurship and scaling technology from a Scottish base.

Join an intimate, audience-led conversation with Dr. Dave Hughes, deep-tech entrepreneur and consultant, as he reflects on his journey from academic research to company creation. Drawing on experience building wearable and sensing technologies, Dave will share the moments that mattered most, the challenges behind the headlines, and how Glasgow’s unique innovation mindset continues to shape what gets built — and how.

This isn’t a lecture — it’s a conversation shaped by you.

The Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Centre (IBioIC) in partnership with the BioBased and Biodegradable Industries Association (BBIA), holds its 12th Annual Conference in Glasgow on 10 and 11 March 2026.

The conference will bring together over 400 biobased industry professionals, researchers, policymakers, and supporting organisations to hear talks, case studies, and panel sessions and to take part in networking activities and workshops.

Visit the exhibition, innovation zone, and posters zone, take part in extensive informal networking opportunities and 1-1 partnering, and join an all-welcome civic reception at Glasgow City Chambers.

Conference attendees are made up of predominantly C-suite or senior level industry representatives from both large, established companies and emerging and start-up enterprises, as well as senior academics, researchers in industry or academia, students and recent graduates, investors, and policy makers. The conference focuses on delivering tangible benefits for attendees, including cultivating strategic partnerships, facilitating new connections and collaborations, providing examples of best practice, understanding, and feeding back on, regulations, and supporting effective communication.

The theme of this year’s conference is BioSolutions for Tomorrow’s World. Fast paced sessions will explore topics ranging from bio-similars in manufacturing to food innovation and the role of biotechnology in restoring natural environments. We’ll look into key issues such as the extent to which bio-based products can replace fossil, and factors influencing the adoption of alternative proteins, while fireside chats and panel sessions will delve into issues in depth. Sponsored workshops on Day 2 will give hosts and delegates an opportunity to discuss issues in-depth in an interactive and outcome-driven setting, and informal networking and 1-1 partnering throughout will give delegates opportunities to meet key contacts and build new connections.

The KTP Images Showcase returns for 2026 celebrating the ideas, talent and real‑world innovation delivered through UK-wide KTP projects working in partnership with academic experts from the Glasgow Region.

This year also marks 30 years of the West of Scotland KTP Centre. Since 1996, they have supported 542 partnerships and secured £84 million in funding for businesses working with our knowledge bases. The evening will celebrate this milestone and shine a light on the projects and people shaping innovation right now.

Why Attend?

• Discover Inspiring Projects: Immerse yourself in the creative and innovative work of KTP Associates as they exhibit visual representations of their groundbreaking projects.
• Meet the people behind the ideas: Hear first-hand from Associates about the challenges they’re tackling and the impact their work is having in businesses and communities.
• Connect with the KTP community: Network with Innovate UK, business partners, academics and fellow Associates, a great space for sparking new collaborations.
• Celebrate outstanding work: The evening rounds off with an address from the guest speakers and awards presentation for the most compelling project images.

Scaling Solutions: A Viable Path to a Sustainable Future

The UK’s biggest festival for a zero-carbon built environment will play host to transformative discussion and knowledge exchange on breaking through barriers to accelerate our journey to net zero carbon.

The built environment accounts for approximately 25% of greenhouse gas emissions. Energy costs are rising, supply chains are under pressure and the skill shortage continues to grow. The demand for solutions isn’t just about climate, it’s about economic survival.

With this going on in the background, is net zero really achievable? Some argue the costs are too high, the technology isn’t ready and that other priorities should come first. At BE-ST Fest 2025, we tackle these debates head on.

This isn’t a conference made up of hopeful visions alone, it’s about the reality of real change, the risks, trade-offs, and the strategies that actually work. This is a space for honesty, collaboration and innovation. Not idealism for its own sake but progress grounded in what works.

A full day event designed to equip delegates with the insights, strategies, and connections needed to transform pioneering ideas into impactful healthcare solutions – delivering real-world value within the NHS and on a global stage.

The programme will feature expert-led sessions on how to shape, position, and scale healthcare innovations for maximum adoption and success. Interactive panels will delve into the challenges, opportunities, and success stories, offering valuable insights and practical takeaways.

A highlight of the programme will be a keynote address from Sir Tony Kouzarides, who will share his perspective on how groundbreaking ideas and collaborative innovation can drive meaningful change in healthcare.

We’re also excited to bring back our poster competition, showcasing cutting-edge research from early career researchers at the forefront of digital health, AI, precision medicine, and more – opening doors for potential collaboration and partnership.

Whether you’re a healthcare professional, researcher, innovator, or industry partner, this is a unique opportunity to connect, share ideas, and be part of the conversation driving healthcare transformation both locally and globally.

Sentiental Limited & University of Strathclyde – A Powerful Partnership

Introduction

In 2018, a connection brokered by Interface set in motion a transformative collaboration between Welbot Ltd and the University of Strathclyde. What began as a project about workplace wellbeing, has evolved into a long-term, strategic partnership, resulting in a newly formed company Sentiental Limited (trading as Sentinel), that is tackling some of the most pressing health challenges faced by frontline workers today.

This case study explores how the partnership has grown, the critical role of Interface in connecting business with academia, and the significant impact of co-created innovation.

The Challenge

Welbot was established to address growing concerns around workplace wellbeing. Early efforts focused on reducing sedentary behaviour and supporting staff health through Welbot, a digital desktop tool.

However, by 2022, it was clear that an even greater challenge was emerging: the escalating mental health crisis among frontline workers, including emergency services and healthcare professionals. These groups face trauma, chronic stress, and burnout, yet often lack accessible and stigma-free support. Thus, Sentinel was formed and, together with University of Strathclyde, they bring together technology, commercial, and scientific expertise to help employees understand and manage trauma.

The Role of Interface

The partnership might never have begun without Interface’s facilitation. By linking Welbot with University of Strathclyde’s academic expertise, Interface enabled the business to access specialist researchers in trauma, psychology, and workplace health. Interface’s support also unlocked early funding opportunities, including an Innovation Voucher, which laid the foundations for further collaborative projects.

This first connection was pivotal leading to the formation of a new company, the exploration of new opportunities, industry applications and funding opportunities. It transformed what could have been a one-off project into a long term, multi-faceted partnership delivering real-world impact.

The Journey

Early Collaboration – Welbot (2018–2020)

• Developed through Interface’s connections with specialist academics at University of Strathclyde providing expertise in sedentary behaviour and health.
• Piloted with student involvement and supported by early-stage innovation funding.
• Resulted in a digital wellbeing tool adopted by over 100 companies in 10 countries.
• Produced peer-reviewed publications and established trust between Welbot and University of Strathclyde.

Evolution into Sentinel (2022–present)

• Shifted focus to workplace trauma and resilience for first responders.
• Co-created with NHS partners, emergency services, and frontline staff to ensure user-centred design.
• Developed 64 evidence-based modules forming the backbone of Sentinel’s AI-powered trauma support app.
• App now available on Google and Apple stores, piloted with NHS24, NHS Lanarkshire, Police Scotland, and the Scottish Ambulance Service.

Research, Innovation & Global Expansion

• Collaboration with University of Strathclyde’s Computer & Information Sciences Department led to:
• A Personalisation Engine for tailoring trauma support.
• A Trauma Conversation Simulator for training.
• Secured multiple funding streams, including Stage Gate funding (University of Strathclyde’s framework used to support commercialisation) and a SMART Scotland Scottish Enterprise award and exploring additional further grants.
• International collaborations established with partners in Saudi Arabia, US, Ukraine, and South Africa, broadening Sentinel’s reach.

Benefits and Impact

Impact on Sentinel

• Commercial Growth – Developed a Minimal Viable Product (MVP), now piloted across major NHS organisations.
• Credibility & Recruitment – Academic backing attracted top talent and partners.
• Market Expansion – Positioned for growth into emergency services, military, and global healthcare sectors.
• Future Impact – Forecast to grow from 3.5 FTE to 20 FTE within 5 years, with total workforce scaling from ~10 to ~100.

Impact on University of Strathclyde

• Teaching & Learning: Provided students with live industry projects and industry funded postgraduate opportunities, enriching courses in psychology, health, and technology.
• Research Outputs: Generated peer-reviewed publications and enhanced reputation in trauma-informed digital health.
• Funding & Engagement: Leveraged SFC innovation voucher funding to explore feasibility which catalysed the partnership leading to multiple UKRI bids, international collaborations, and income-generation opportunities.
• Public Engagement: Raised University of Strathclyde’s profile through media, conferences, and community initiatives centred on frontline worker wellbeing.
• Awards and Recognition: Members of team were recognised at the Strathclyde Strategic Research and Knowledge Exchange Impact Awards, which recognise outstanding achievements and contributions in research and knowledge exchange at the University of Strathclyde.

A Model for Business–Academic Collaboration

“The Sentinel–University of Strathclyde partnership is an exemplar of what Interface set out to achieve: turning an initial connection into a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship. The collaboration demonstrates that when businesses and academics work closely together, supported by effective brokerage and relationship management, the results extend far beyond individual projects -creating solutions that deliver societal, economic, and international impact.”
Louise Arnold, Senior Innovation Lead, Interface

From tackling sedentary behaviour in office settings to pioneering digital trauma support for frontline workers, the journey of Sentinel and the University of Strathclyde is a testament to the power of strategic, co-created partnerships.

With Interface’s facilitation, this collaboration has:

• Transformed early innovation into a global health solution.
• Strengthened Scotland’s position as a leader in digital health and wellbeing.
• Created a sustainable model of business–academic partnership that continues to grow in scale and impact.

The Sentinel – University of Strathclyde journey showcases how enduring partnerships between academia and business can change lives – locally, nationally, and globally.

Glasgow has long been a powerhouse of industrial ingenuity. Once dubbed the “Second City of the Empire,” it earned global recognition for engineering excellence—home to world-class shipyards, locomotive manufacturers, and heavy industries that shaped the modern age. The River Clyde launched some of the world’s most iconic vessels, while inventors like James Watt powered the Industrial Revolution and laid the foundations for global mobility.

Today, that same spirit of innovation is driving a new revolution—this time towards a cleaner, smarter, net-zero future. As part of the #Glasgow850 celebrations, this special edition of award-winning Art of Possible series will explore how Glasgow City Region’s legacy of industrial ingenuity is powering a new era of clean, smart and sustainable transport.

Join a panel of innovators to explore how emerging technologies are redefining mobility and logistics—making systems smarter and more sustainable. The event will spotlight cutting-edge innovations in green transport and delve into the infrastructure, investment and cross-sector collaboration needed to scale them.

Speakers Include:

• Dr. Stephen Breslin – Chief Executive, Glasgow Science Centre
• Dr. Duncan Booker – Group Manager (Green Economy, Innovation & International), Glasgow City Council (Chair)
• Dr. Mahmoud Wagih – University of Glasgow & Founder at RX Watt Ltd
• More speakers to be confirmed soon
  

Now in its 8th year, this award-winning series connects innovators, creatives, and industry leaders to explore how unexpected tech collaborations drive new ideas and solutions. It’s also an official primer for Scotland’s CAN DO Innovation Summit.

The Scottish Universities Life Sciences Alliance (SULSA) IndAc25 Conference is a dynamic two-day conference and careers fair bringing together life sciences industry and academia to explore the latest in industry-academia collaboration, commercialisation, and career development.

Day one focuses on industry-academia collaboration and commercialisation with ample opportunities to network with commercially minded academics, industry open to collaboration and organisations that can support.

Day two focuses on employability and skills development and run similar to a recruitment fair providing the chance for talented and proactive undergraduate and postgraduate students and staff to network with life sciences employers.

Interface are taking part in a panel session and have an exhibition stand, so drop by and meet Shelley Breckenridge, Jackie Sanderson and Gillian Hambley.

Aligning Research with Real-World Impact

Life Sciences Partnerships Day on Wednesday 1st October 2025 will be a day of connection, collaboration and innovation bringing together academic researchers, funders, industry and other external organisations to explore how the University of Glasgow’s life sciences expertise can help tackle real-world challenges.

This event is designed to create space for meaningful engagement between Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences (MVLS) researchers and external organisations. Through a combination of keynote talks, industry-led pitches, collaborative workshops, and networking opportunities, the day aims to:

• Showcase MVLS research strengths and ambitions
• Identify opportunities for collaborative problem-solving
• Facilitate conversations around funding, skills development, and translational impact
• Build lasting partnerships to address key societal challenges with a focus on human and animal health, life sciences, and the environment
  

Meet Interface’s Gillian Hambley and Jackie Sanderson at this event.