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  • March Update: our North Acton site is moving fast | Sciopolis

    29 Mar 2026 March Update: our North Acton site is moving fast 9 weeks to go until the opening of 1 Portal Way , and everything is accelerating. Here's your quick tour of what's happened in the last month. A build you can actually see Steel is up. Floors are in. Infrastructure designed specifically to help science and tech companies scale is being installed. This is no longer a concept, it's a building preparing to welcome innovators in June. 👉 Founders and scientists looking for lab and office space? Check out our latest construction update. 1 Portal Way: we are on track to open in June Imperial Incubator onsite : what it means for tenants https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUn9IYqW-5Q For science and tech founders, the hardest phase is rarely the discovery. It's the gap between a validated idea and a fundable, scalable business. That's precisely the stage Imperial Incubator is built for — and at 1 Portal Way, they're in the building. ✅ A Lab Manager onsite: real technical support, when you need it ✅ Access to Imperial's specialist equipment, prototyping facilities and research centres ✅ Hands-on business and relationship-building support ✅ A gateway to Imperial's talent pool: skilled graduates, academic experts and industry contacts 👉 How Imperial Incubator Accelerates Innovation for our Tenants Hitting the spot for Chemistry Founders? You tell us. Not every lab is a "chemistry lab", and London has a real shortage of the good ones. Thanks to the Royal Society of Chemistry, we know that properly serviced chemistry spaces- with vented extract, flexible power, external ducting and waste systems that simply work - are hard to find. At 1 Portal Way, we believe we have a positive answer. 👉 A Rare Sight in London: Real Vented Extract Capacity Innovation Testbeds: we walk the talk In February, we were featured in Estates Gazette . For the first time in the UK, BioTwin 's sustainable hemp studs were installed at 1 Portal Way. This matters because: We don't just host innovators, we support them. We help get their solutions tested in real commercial settings. We turn our building into a live testbed wherever we can. And like many good things, this began with a connection through Imperial and the Undaunted Better Futures Retrofit Accelerator. 👉 Watch the video: BioStud Installation at One Portal Way, #TuesdayTours are getting busier What began as rainy mini-tours for a handful of people has become packed 10+ person walkthroughs in the sunshine. Visitors include prospective tenants, London universities and enterprise teams, Accelerators and Partners eager to join a rapidly forming ecosystem. With only two months to launch, this is the moment to see the build before everyone else does. Pick a Tuesday that works for you and contact us to arrange 📍 North Acton (Central Line) or Acton Main Line (Elizabeth Line) Next Month will be big In April we hope to share several pieces of big news: ✹ Our first tenant ✹ Our General Manager & Lab Manager hires ✹ Our Food & Beverage provider for the cafĂ© Have a great Easter break and see you all soon PS: See what lab and office space is available at 1 Portal Way

  • Looking for Labs? Here's 5 pitfalls to avoid | Sciopolis

    5 Feb 2026 Looking for Labs? Here's 5 pitfalls to avoid As scaleup companies transition out of incubators and into dedicated lab space, the stakes get higher. The right environment can accelerate growth, attract top talent, and unlock funding. But the wrong space? It can drain resources, limit flexibility and slow progress. We’ve seen brilliant innovators trip up, not due to a lack of vision, but because lab space presents a complex and unfamiliar landscape. The opportunity cost of spending months navigating costly configuration missteps is often hidden, but very real. To help founders avoid these setbacks, we’ve identified five common pitfalls to watch out for. Overdesigning Your Lab Space It’s tempting to design the “perfect” lab: state-of-the-art equipment, high-spec finishes, and every possible contingency covered. But overdesigning can lead to unnecessary costs and underutilised space. Why it happens: we often plan for our ideal future state, not our current needs. We may also assume investors expect a polished, high-tech environment. What to do instead: Focus on what’s essential for your current stage. Modular layouts, standard lab designs, shared facilities, and scalable infrastructure can offer flexibility without locking in high upfront costs. Think MVP—Minimum Viable Premises Overpay for Lab Fit‑Out Many innovators are navigating commercial real estate for the first time. Without market knowledge or negotiation experience, they may end up with inflated rents or unfavourable terms. Why it happens: Urgency to move, lack of benchmarking data and unfamiliarity with lease structures can lead to poor decisions. What to do instead: Talk to peers, advisors, or specialist consultants. Benchmark against similar companies. Alternatively, consider ready-to-occupy lab space that grows with you: letting you leapfrog construction delays/costly mistakes and focus on your science. Choosing an Inflexible Lab Lease Full Repairing and Insuring (FRI) leases can seem like a solid commitment, but they’re often rigid and long-term. Many scale-ups outgrow their space faster than expected, leaving them stuck or facing costly exits. Why it happens: FRI leases are standard in commercial property, and founders may not realise the implications until it’s too late. What to do instead: Look for flexibility. Managed lab spaces, short-term licenses, or leases with break clauses can give you room to grow—or pivot—without penalty. Underestimating Hidden Costs The headline rent is just the beginning. Fit-out costs, service charges, consultant fees, dilapidation liabilities, and extra square footage requirements can quickly inflate your budget. Why it happens: These costs are often buried in the fine print or emerge late in the process. Navigating these costs often requires specialist advisors—adding both complexity and expense. What to do instead: Ask for a full cost breakdown upfront. Work with a legal advisor who understands lab space. Alternatively, opt for an all-inclusive model. When you compare apples to apples—including hidden costs—it may be more affordable than an FRI lease and will demand far less of your bandwidth. Choosing Lab Space in the wrong location or ecosystem Lab space isn’t just about technical specs, it’s about being in the right ecosystem. The right location can attract talent, investors, collaborators and visibility. The wrong location can make all of the key issues an awful lot harder. Why it matters: Proximity to universities, hospitals, innovation clusters and transport links can dramatically impact recruitment, partnerships, and funding. What to do instead: Choose a location that aligns with your mission and community: being part of a vibrant innovation district can open doors that no amount of spec can. Choosing Laboratory Space Is a Strategic Decision Choosing lab space is more than a real estate decision, it’s a strategic investment in your company’s future. By avoiding these five common mistakes, innovators can secure space that supports growth, attracts talent, and builds resilience. If you're navigating this journey and want to avoid the pitfalls, Sciopolis is here to help. We’re building infrastructure designed for scaleups: flexible, affordable and embedded in thriving ecosystems. Why choose Sciopolis Labs Discover our labs in London, North Acton

  • News & Insights | One Portal Way

    Back to Sciopolis 1 PORTAL WAY THE BUILDING AVAILABILITY FAQS LOCATION COMMUNITY INCUBATOR INNOVATOR STORIES NEWS & INSIGHTS CONTACT LATEST INSIGHTS 3 July 2026 News, One Portal Way, Sciopolis 1 Portal Way: Open for Business! On July 2, we celebrated the opening of the building with our community. Now we can't wait to welcome you to 1 Portal Way, North Acton. Closer than you think. Read More 16 June 2026 News, One Portal Way, Sciopolis Lab manager, fixer and chief confessor: my first month at 1 Portal Way One month in, our Lab Manager Sandy shares what it's been like learning the ropes and settling into the team(s). Read More 22 Apr 2026 One Portal Way, Sciopolis Lab to Manufacturing. Without the commute. At 1 Portal Way, you can be running R&D in ready to occupy labs, while your manufacturing sits literally 200m or a “five-minute walk” away. Read More 30 Mar 2026 News, One Portal Way, Sciopolis First Tenant announced: Ki-Hydrogen A UK cleantech startup with breakthrough green hydrogen technology is set to call our North Acton Innovation Hub home from June 2026. Read More 17 Feb 2026 News, One Portal Way Not all labs Are "Chemistry Labs": but what is a chemistry lab? (If you can tell us, we’ll try to build it) Read More 18 May 2026 News, One Portal Way, Sciopolis Great science needs great people: introducing Talentmark Growing Your Team at Sciopolis: we are building the talent ecosystem you need Read More 5 Feb 2026 One Portal Way Looking for Labs? Here's 5 pitfalls to avoid Founders often underestimate the hidden costs of spending months on complex lab setups. To help you steer clear of common missteps, here are five pitfalls to watch out for. Read More 27 Jan 2026 One Portal Way Construction Update - Jan 26 Discover how we are getting ready to open our North Acton site in June 2026 (and join us on a #TuesdayTour to see it for yourself) Read More 5 Nov 2025 One Portal Way, Sciopolis Monthly Update From North Acton to Cambridge to Manchester, find out what the team have been up to, and what is coming up next Read More 31 July 2025 One Portal Way, Sciopolis One Portal Way, Old Oak - Sciopolis Appointment Sciopolis is appointed by Imperial to launch new scale-up space for science and technology ventures in Old Oak, London Read More 12 May 2026 News, One Portal Way, Sciopolis New Tenant: P.Happi joins 1 Portal Way Pioneering UK women's health startup will scale up its manufacturing at our North Acton hub Read More 10 May 2026 sciopolis, News, One Portal Way Monthly Update: final sprint! Less than a month to go to the opening of 1 Portal Way and it's all happening: New Team, New look, New Cluster. Read More 22 Mar 2026 One Portal Way, Sciopolis 1 Portal Way: we are on track to open in June Major visible progress at 1 Portal Way, as we move confidently through the final stages of construction ahead of our June 2026 opening. Read More 29 Mar 2026 News, One Portal Way, Sciopolis March Update: our North Acton site is moving fast 9 weeks to go until the opening of 1 Portal Way, and everything is accelerating. Here's your quick tour of what's happened in the last month. Read More 12 Apr 2026 One Portal Way, Sciopolis North Acton
 where? Closer than you think. That was our reaction too. Then we checked the map. Read More 13 Mar 2026 One Portal Way, Sciopolis A Rare Sight in London: Real Vented Extract Capacity Why 1 Portal Way is one of the few places in London truly ready for Chemistry Innovation Read More 2 Feb 2026 One Portal Way, Sciopolis We are Hiring! General Manager As the first hire, this person becomes part of the story of One Portal Way: not just helping run the building, but helping define it. Do you know anyone who could fit the role? Read More 20 Nov 2025 One Portal Way, Sciopolis Sciopolis wins New Business Launch of the Year We did it! We won the Estates Gazette "New Business Launch of the Year" 2025 Award Read More 16 Jan 2026 News, One Portal Way Why ready-to-occupy labs are a game-changer for innovators By Charlie Mitchell, CEO of Sciopolis Read More 14 Oct 2024 Sciopolis, One Portal Way Imperial announces a major investment in Old Oak Imperial has identified a need for flexible and affordable follow-on space to enable innovators to stay and scale in West London. Read More 1 PORTAL WAY Cookie Policy | Privacy Polic y All rights reserved. ©Sciopolis@OnePortalWay 2026 | Website designed by Jamin Design Home The Building Location Community Latest Insights Contact Contact +44 7943 980146 info@sciopolis.co.uk Follow us on LinkedIn >

  • How Imperial Incubator Accelerates Innovation for One Portal Way Tenants | Sciopolis

    Learn how Imperial Incubator gives One Portal Way tenants access to advanced scientific facilities, expert support and Imperial’s world class research ecosystem, helping life sciences and deep tech startups scale faster. Back to Sciopolis 1 PORTAL WAY THE BUILDING AVAILABILITY FAQS LOCATION COMMUNITY INCUBATOR INNOVATOR STORIES NEWS & INSIGHTS CONTACT IMPERIAL INCUBATOR IS ONSITE By benefitting from resources that are typically out of reach to early-stage startups, our companies can accelerate their development. A member of Imperial Incubator’s team will be based onsite at 1 Portal Way to link the two operations. Alongside providing hands-on support, they will help our tenants access the resources, expertise and networks of Imperial, a top-tier university. This includes advanced equipment, prototyping facilities and research centres, academic expertise, skilled graduates and valuable industry contacts. OUR MEMBERS GAIN: Technical support Our Imperial Incubator’s onsite Lab Manager provides equipment training and inductions, supports lab safety and best practice and enables access to communal specialist equipment. Business-building support Including peer‑to‑peer mentoring, introductions to investors, connections to specialist business service providers, access to advanced equipment and opportunities to work with graduate talent, from placements to consultancy assignments Community Engagement Access to regular events across the Imperial Incubator and wider Imperial university ecosystem, facilitated member introductions between different Incubator sites, and updates through the community newsletter. DRIVING GROWTH AT ONE PORTAL WAY By integrating Imperial Incubator into our site, we create an environment where science‑led companies can accelerate their development from day one. This partnership strengthens the broader WestTech London innovation cluster and ensures our tenants have the resources, expertise and momentum they need to deliver meaningful breakthroughs. INTERESTED IN OUR LABS? See what's available Book a Tour 1 PORTAL WAY Cookie Policy | Privacy Polic y All rights reserved. ©Sciopolis@OnePortalWay 2026 | Website designed by Jamin Design Home The Building Location Latest Insights Contact Contact +44 7943 980146 info@sciopolis.co.uk Follow us on LinkedIn >

  • Scaling Stories: how community can help founders thrive | Sciopolis

    16 Sept 2025 Scaling Stories: how community can help founders thrive When launching a new business, there are a few key things you must consider: what you enjoy doing, location and building a high-performing team. Experienced founders will know that the latter is key to longevity. Building a strong community of people not only fosters a supportive and collaborative environment but it also means you are sharing the scaling journey with other people, which is so important and necessary when you consider how lonely it can be as an entrepreneur. There's the unseen part of being a founder or an entrepreneur. It’s the work you're doing when you're not in the office; the kind of things that tend to consume your mind. You'll find yourself sneaking stuff in an evening and a weekend because you've got to keep up with the pace of everything. Inevitably, that does mean you make sacrifices in your family life. Giving up time to work on getting ready for the week ahead or catching up on the week before. This is where you see the benefits of being near to people who are having a similar journey. As a founder, there is an expectation to know everything, but knowing that you don’t know everything and being willing to ask for help is a very powerful leadership move. What matters is having a supportive network around you. Whether it’s collaborating with your team to get the best out of them as part of the community or talking to a peer in another industry, who just happens to be in the same building about things you're wrestling with, is really helpful. The more someone feels they belong to a community the more likely they are to perform at a high level and the less likely they are to leave. It’s well documented that being a founder and an entrepreneur is a lonely gig. Not only is community vital for helping to combat that, it is key for fostering employee engagement and for boosting productivity. 👉 If you believe in growing in the right community, explore our locations and be part of something big, from the start.

  • LOCATIONS | Sciopolis

    OUR LOCATIONS We are busy building a network of sites across key locations. Watch this space for further announcements! LONDON, NORTH ACTON Exciting opportunity for ready-to-occupy laboratory and office space, with great amenities, in a well-connected location, linked to Imperial. Available in June 2026 FIND OUT MORE CAMBRIDGE We are looking at opportunities in Cambridge for new innovation spaces that would suit early-stage science and technology businesses. Get in touch if you would like to find out more ENQUIRE NOW WANT TO DEVELOP A NEW INNOVATION HUB? Contact us to discuss how we can help convert existing space or build and activate new Innovation Hubs for science and technology businesses. +44 7943 980146 info@sciopolis.co.uk sciopolis

  • Old Modules | Sciopolis

    Cambridge We are looking at opportunities in Cambridge for new innovation spaces that would suit early-stage science and technology businesses. Enquire Now SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER Name Email Thanks for submitting! SIGN ME UP Sciopolis needs the contact information you provide to us to contact you about our products and services. You may unsubscribe from these communications at any time. For information on how to unsubscribe, as well as our privacy practices and commitment to protecting your privacy, please review our Privacy Policy . Type Unit Size (sq meters) Size (sq feet) Occupancy Type Unit Size (sq meters) Size (sq feet) Occupancy (Guideline) OUR LOCATIONS We are busy scoping out innovation sites in Cambridge and London, comprising of lab, office and event spaces. If you are looking for space, please get in touch so we can capture your requirements early. One Portal Way, London NEW: Exciting opportunity for ready-to-occupy laboratory and office space located in North Acton, part of Imperial College London Old Oak Cluster Learn More Book A Tour Cambridge We are looking at opportunities in Cambridge for new innovation spaces that would suit early-stage science and technology businesses. Enquire Now WANT TO DEVELOP A NEW INNOVATION HUB? Get In Touch Get In Touch CONTACT US Landlords: we can help you convert and activate your existing space or build new Innovation Hubs for science and technology businesses. Ventures: we are creating exciting lab and office spaces for you, pls contact us early so we can accommodate your requirements +44 7943 980146 info@sciopolis.co.uk sciopolis GET IN TOUCH Are you a landlord, university or local authority looking to create Innovation Hubs in one of your buildings? Or a science and technology business looking for inspiring and ready to occupy lab and office space in London and Cambridge? WHY CHOOSE SCIOPOLIS? Ready to occupy labs and offices Move in straight away, no upfront capital expenditure, no months lost negotiating leases or managing contractors Access to expertise Tap into our “black book” of trusted service providers; from equipment specialists and branding experts to legal advisors and mentors Cost effective, flexible terms We understand the needs of early-stage ventures. Our leasing models are designed to give you room to grow without long term commitments holding you back Operational support We take care of facilities and day‑to‑day operations so you can focus on your science and scaling your business University connectivity We have scoped out access to equipment, academics, and projects that can make a material difference to your discovery Connections to accelerate growth We proactively link you with academics, innovators and industry partners who can help you solve problems, hire talent and open doors Community and collaboration We make coming to work more fun. Great food, lively events, socials and curated introductions spark collaboration and help you hire and retain great people Part of a wider network We are building Innovation Hubs in strategic locations. By joining one, you will gain visibility and connectivity across the network Discover Lab Space Discover Work Space EXPERT HELP AND COMMUNITY Join a connected community of founders, researchers and industry experts. You will be surrounded by people who can help you solve problems, share knowledge and accelerate breakthrough ideas. Our community awaits you Book A Tour View Available Lab Space

  • Lab & Office Space Availability | London, North Acton

    Flexible, fully fitted lab and office space available at One Portal Way, with hot desking, private suites and meeting rooms, plus onsite support from Imperial’s innovation ecosystem. Back to Sciopolis 1 PORTAL WAY THE BUILDING AVAILABILITY FAQS LOCATION COMMUNITY INCUBATOR INNOVATOR STORIES NEWS & INSIGHTS CONTACT LAB AND OFFICE SPACE IN LONDON, NORTH ACTON A cost-effective and inspiring home for ambitious science and technology teams is about to open in North Acton. Move-in-ready CL2 labs, private offices, hot desks and meeting rooms for 3 to 70 people, with flexible leases, all-inclusive bills and the Imperial Incubator on hand whenever you need them. Book a Tour Download Brochure WHY CHOOSE 1 PORTAL WAY Cost-effective Fully fitted, affordable and ready to occupy, with one bill a month. No surprise charges, no separate utilities, no admin headache — just lab & coworking space that works from day one. Future ready space Built for growth, with adjacent advanced manufacturing space to support your scaling needs, so you can start here and stay here. Connected location Central Line/North Acton on the doorstep. White City next door, Heathrow a short hop, Central London faster than most commutes — your team and your investors will thank you. Flexible leasing options Two-year leases as standard for lab and office, with room to grow or shrink as you go. Day or month passes for hot-desking options. Imperial-affiliated Onsite support by Imperial Incubator and access to world-class talent, equipment, expertise and research in nearby White City. Great Community Join a community of scientists and founders who are building what's next, and lean on the experts, mentors and services we bring in to help you get there faster. COME SEE IT FOR YOURSELF We host site tours every Tuesday and would be delighted to show you around. Book a Tour LATEST PHOTOS 1/4 LABS Designed for life sciences, cleantech, chemistry, materials, engineering and deep-tech teams, our CL2 labs are fully fitted and ready to use, with extracted ventilation and a high-spec finish across every unit. Shared equipment available as standard. For more detail, read our FAQs. Imperial Incubator is onsite too, so scientific and commercial support is always close at hand. And if your work has specialist requirements, our team will work with you to tailor the space. HOW MUCH LAB SPACE DO YOU NEED? Not sure what you need? A quick tour usually makes it clear. Have a look at the rough guide below, then come and see the space in person. We'll help you work out what fits. Small Lab 3-5 scientists 40-55 sqm. 430-600 sqft. Medium Lab 5-9 scientists 55-90 sqm. 600-1000 sqft. Large Lab 9-12 scientists 90-120 sqm. 1000-1300 sqft. Lab Suite 13-25 scientists 120-250 sqm. 1300+ sqft. Prices starting from ÂŁ4,800 per month INTERESTED IN OUR LABS? View Floorplan Book a Tour HOT DESKS, OFFICES & MEETING ROOMS If you're looking for an exciting and cost-effective workspace in the middle of an innovation cluster, look no further. Hot desk by the day, private suite by the month and everything in between. Meeting rooms for 3 to 24, a training room and event spaces for when you're ready to bring the world in. Our open-plan atrium and onsite cafĂ© are the gravitational centre, where corridor conversations turn into collaborations and our community programme, supported by Imperial Incubator, brings founders, scientists and investors through the door every week. Whether you are a solo researcher needing occasional desk access, a small team looking for a consistent base, or a growing company ready for a private office or lab, we have a workspace to match - with the flexibility to grow into the next one. With us, you are always a member, never a tenant. FLEXIBLE WORKSPACE MEMBERSHIPS Hot Desks ÂŁ300/month | ÂŁ40/day Per person, unassigned seating All inclusive Dedicated Desk ÂŁ450/month Per person, assigned seating All inclusive PRIVATE OFFICES Small Office 3-6 people 20-35 sqm. I 200-380 sqft. Medium Office 8-10 people 35-75 sqm I 380-800 sqft Large Office 12-18 people 75-120 sqm I 800-1300 sqft From ÂŁ2,250 per month INCLUDED WITH EVERY LAB/OFFICE: High-speed wifi Shared equipment (labs only) Private garden access Onsite Cafe (member discount) Meeting/event catering Complimentary tea & coffee Meeting room credits Business Partners intros Phone booths and quiet rooms Printing credits Free events and socials UK Registered address (add-on) INTERESTED IN OFFICE, MEETING ROOMS & EVENT SPACES? Enquire Now Book a Tour 1 PORTAL WAY Cookie Policy | Privacy Polic y All rights reserved. ©Sciopolis@OnePortalWay 2026 | Website designed by Jamin Design Home The Building Location Community Latest Insights Contact Contact +44 7943 980146 info@sciopolis.co.uk Follow us on LinkedIn >

  • Businesses FAQs | Sciopolis Innovation Hubs – Ready Labs, Offices & Coworking

    Explore how Sciopolis supports scientists, engineers and founders with flexible lab and office space across the UK. Learn about leases, services, community and the network connecting innovation hubs nationwide. LAB & OFFICE SPACES - FAQs Our hubs offer far more than ready‑to‑occupy labs and offices. We bring scientists, technologists and founders together in flexible, well‑designed work spaces - supported by our onsite community and by our network of specialist service partners. Whether you need serviced labs, furnished offices or hot-desking space, we provide solutions that grow with your business. Frequently asked questions What types of workspace does Sciopolis offer? Our hubs feature flexible lab spaces (which are set up to support Containment Level 2 works, both wet and dry), modern offices, collaborative areas, meeting rooms, event spaces, coworking areas, and a CafĂ©. Each site is designed for multidisciplinary innovation across life sciences, engineering, cleantech, deep tech and creative technology. What makes Sciopolis space different from other science workspaces? Sciopolis combines ready‑to‑move‑in labs and offices with an active innovation community. Unlike standard serviced space, our hubs integrate property, operations and ecosystem management: one monthly cost covers rental of the space itself, Wi-Fi, utilities, common equipment use, coffee and tea, compliance, maintenance, etc. while onsite teams connect tenants with mentors, investors and partners. Each hub belongs to a planned national network that will link Sciopolis communities across the UK, giving occupiers access to research, talent and collaborative opportunities that go far beyond a single building. What type of companies are best suited to Sciopolis hubs? Sciopolis is built for early‑stage and scaling science and technology ventures across multiple disciplines. We believe innovation happens at the intersection of sciences, so our hubs promote collaboration and cross‑pollination between sectors. Typical tenants include life‑sciences, biotech. healthtech, medtech start‑ups, engineering and cleantech innovators, deep‑tech and AI developers and creative‑tech teams working with hardware or digital platforms. If your business depends on research, prototyping or technical collaboration, Sciopolis provides the facilities and community to help it grow. What technical standards do Sciopolis labs meet? Labs across the Sciopolis network are built to containment level 2 standards and suited to most benchtop science. Key features include six air changes per hour, three-phase electrical supply, multiple power and data points, dedicated gas and air lines, vented extract for standard fume cupboards, lab sink, and vinyl flooring with coved edges ensuring easy cleaning and maintenance; ground-floor and some of the first-floor labs are built on concrete floors which will provide low vibration performance which can be key for certain experiments. More information on our labs can be found here What equipment and furniture are typically included? Fixed benching around sinks and a series of mobile benches are provided as standard allowing tenants to develop their own layouts. Additional furnishing can be added by tenants, as required. Tenants are generally responsible to provide their own science equipment, however some shared equipment is provided in Common Equipment rooms (see next question). What shared equipment is available? Equipment rooms typically include autoclaves, glass washers, flake-ice machines and demineralised water systems. These can be booked through the Sciopolis app. Does Sciopolis offer office space as well as labs? Yes. Offices are fully furnished with fast connectivity and meeting-room access. Options range from private suites to coworking desks. What common amenities can tenants use? Our hubs typically provide meeting rooms, cafĂ©s, breakout zones, social spaces and event areas. Tenants have access to tea points on each floor. Bike racks and showers are standard; limited car parking is typically bookable for visitors. Check out our locations for site-specific information. How do I apply for space? Contact our leasing team. We’ll arrange a tour, discuss your requirements and recommend the hub best suited to your work. How are service charges calculated and what’s included? Sciopolis locations charge an “all-in” rental fee for each office / lab. That includes service charges, meeting room access, utilities, maintenance, cleaning, business rates, security, shared facilities, site management, as well as programmatic community events. A single monthly payment keeps costs predictable. What’s the difference between Serviced and FRI leases? Sciopolis typically offers serviced lease agreements for ready-to-occupy lab and office spaces that bundle all costs into one monthly charge for maximum flexibility. For larger units in certain buildings, Sciopolis may offer FRI leases (Full Repairing and Insuring) which would typically suit larger occupiers seeking longer leases and more control over their space. Can leases be scaled or relocated? Yes. Our flexible approach makes it easy to expand or move between locations within the Sciopolis network as your business grows. How is waste managed across Sciopolis hubs? Sciopolis will hold central contracts for the management of most waste streams and will directly manage and handle standard non-hazardous waste via the cleaning team. Tenants will directly handle clinical, chemical and other specialist streams themselves utilising the central contract (at tenant cost), which will be managed by our local Lab-Manager. Who oversees laboratory standards? Each hub has an experienced Lab Manager who will be responsible to manage shared equipment, waste contracts, gas contracts and safety compliance, amongst other activities. Where are Sciopolis hubs located? Our hubs will be positioned within major UK innovation clusters with excellent connectivity to transport links. For example, our London site at One Portal Way is two minutes from North Acton station and 10 minutes to the Elizabeth Line, with further HS2 connectivity coming in the near future, making it one of London’s best connected Innovation Hubs. Check out our locations page to see where we have sites. What support do tenants receive beyond workspace? Every Sciopolis hub is built around an ecosystem that combines space with people and partnerships. Support includes: Academic and clinical connections – links to universities, equipment sharing and research collaboration. Curated service network – partners provide expert help in IP, HR, finance, legal, marketing and compliance, introduced directly by our team. Access to talent – introductions to recruiters and research networks. Active community management – onsite teams foster engagement and track impact. Check out our Locations Get in Touch

  • UK Life Sciences miss out on ÂŁ15bn to global rivals | Sciopolis

    25 Mar 2025 UK Life Sciences miss out on £15bn to global rivals By Mark Sanders, Chairman of Sciopolis UK Life Sciences are missing out on billions to global rivals: isn’t it time to act before it’s too late? The SCI report yesterday highlighted a competitiveness gap costing us £15 billion annually. Despite being identified as a key sector for economic growth, the UK is falling behind international rivals. Key findings from the report were: - The UK has dropped from the second to eighth place in global life sciences FDI - Clinical trials initiated in the UK have decreased by 8% since 2017/18. - Employment in life sciences has remained flat in the UK while growing by 20% in Europe. - The UK’s share of global pharmaceutical exports has dropped from 5.4% in 2018 to 3.8% in 2023. These findings are not encouraging and even less so in the context of the ambition for the UK to be a Science Superpower. My perspective is that we need to not only focus on the desired outcomes, but also the process and infrastructure to get us there. One positive way to react to this crisis would be for the government to focus on physical infrastructure that can retain and support innovators in the UK. Innovation Hubs similar to what Imperial has built at White City Innovation District - well connected, with density of researchers and industry, supported by the local authority as well as by a top university- increase the chances for innovators to attract investment, develop their ideas and make it through their commercialisation journey We need to quickly refocus on the needs of innovators and build places for them to come together, and robust networks that help them to connect the dots. This, of course, is in addition to the other measures suggested by the report, i.e. tailored incentives, streamlined regulatory processes etc. We can celebrate the UK at the forefront of life sciences invention, but we need to better sustain innovation through the other tricky phases too- including scaling and manufacturing. The risk of not doing it may mean losing the battle to other ecosystems that can cater for the entire journey. Read the full article here

  • Summer Update 2025 | Sciopolis

    10 Sept 2025 Summer Update 2025 After a well-earned summer breather, the Sciopolis team returned recharged, and just in time. July and August brought a wave of good news that has set the tone for an ambitious autumn . Appointed at One Portal Way, Old Oak In July, we were appointed by Imperial College London to deliver a new scale-up space at One Portal Way, Old Oak . The site will offer flexible lab and office space for early-stage ventures, with a focus on affordability, speed to occupancy, and community. This marks a major step forward in our mission to support companies that have outgrown incubators but aren’t yet ready for full commercial leases. We’re proud to be working alongside Imperial to shape a new innovation cluster in West London, and we’ve already started receiving enquiries from ambitious tenants looking for an exciting new home. The Standard covered the announcement Shortlisted for Estates Gazette Awards 2025 We’re delighted to share that Sciopolis has been shortlisted for “New Business Launch of the Year” at the Estates Gazette Awards 2025 . The awards ceremony takes place in November, and we’re honoured to be recognised alongside other ambitious, sector-shaping organisations. Civic Campus, Hammersmith: Feasibility Study Completed It was a pleasure to immerse ourselves in the Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham and gain a deeper understanding of its bold vision for innovation . As part of our six-week feasibility study, we delivered recommendations for a new Innovation Hub at the Civic Campus, designed to support local entrepreneurs and connect deeply with other innovation hotspots in the Borough. The study allowed us to analyse market demand and opportunity and propose a use of space that aligns with the borough’s ambition to be “the best place to do business in Europe.” Feasibility Study: designing the Heart of Innovation in Hammersmith & Fulham Looking Ahead We continue to scope new sites across Cambridge, London and beyond. These hubs will feature our signature emphasis on community, shared amenities and curated programming to foster collaboration and accelerate growth. If you are a venture looking for space in London or Cambridge, it’s not too early to get in touch If you are a landlord, university or local authority interested in partnering to create or repurpose a building into an Innovation Hub , we’d love to hear from you early in the process. Read how we can help If you are a company offering services to science and technology innovators and want to join our Service Partners Network, find out more Want to receive this monthly update in your Inbox? Sign up to our Newsletter here

  • Great science needs great people: introducing Talentmark | Sciopolis

    18 May 2026 Great science needs great people: introducing Talentmark Building a high-performing team is one of the most critical and challenging parts of scaling an early-stage science company. We know this not just from personal experience, but from the founders we've spoken to directly. In our recent research with London science and technology founders, one message came through clearly: the best innovation hubs don't just provide space. They actively support and help their tenants to succeed. "When we look for space, we’re less worried about the building, we’re more interested in how can you help us?" COO, Medtech company That question sits at the heart of what we're creating at Sciopolis, and one of the most important answers is this: we're building an ecosystem designed to help our tenants develop their technology and build their business. And one key aspect is to help them find, attract and grow the teams they need. A community of diverse companies needs diverse talent pathways Our tenants will come from many different scientific disciplines: life sciences, clinical research, cleantech, chemistry etc — at different stages of growth, with very different hiring needs. The founding team of a medtech startup has entirely different requirements to a chemistry company scaling its technical function, or a drug discovery business hiring its first commercial lead. Our research showed that early-stage founders in particular feel this acutely: they need access to talent, community and networks all at once, and the right connections matter enormously. And that's exactly what we're building, through multiple strands: Imperial College London & other universities: connecting our tenants with world-class graduate and postgraduate talent from the UK's leading research institutions Local Colleges, creating pathways for local talent into our community, supporting skills development and widening access to the life sciences and chemical sectors Local talent placement — investing in the communities around us and building sustainable pipelines that reflect the diversity of west London And now.. Talentmark , a specialist recruitment partner serving the life science, clinical and chemical sectors, bringing dedicated expertise in scientific, technical and commercial hiring Why specialist recruitment matters Our founders told us they don't want to feel like just another tenant. They want support that's genuinely invested in their outcomes: "As a founder, what I want first is really support. It's more knowing that you feel supported rather than you're going to have to pay a hefty fee for anything." — CEO, Cleantech company That's exactly the philosophy Talentmark brings. As a key strand in our talent ecosystem, they work consultatively, helping Sciopolis tenant companies define roles, shape hiring strategy and build teams for the long term. This isn't a transactional recruiter relationship. It's a genuine partner who understands the specific demands of life science, clinical and chemical hiring and who is focused on long-term outcomes, not just placements. As a Sciopolis member, with Talentmark you will have access to: Specialist recruitment across scientific, technical and commercial functions in life science, clinical and chemical sectors Flexible hiring solutions — permanent, interim or contract, aligned to your stage and needs A free initial consultation to assess your hiring needs and shape your talent strategy Salary benchmarking and real-time market insights to keep your hiring competitive An established network of high-quality, often passive, specialist talent Competitive rates , available following an initial discussion " We’re really excited about this partnership with Sciopolis and the opportunity to support companies from early concept through to scale. The stages may differ, but getting the right people in place at the right time is always critical. By embedding ourselves within this ecosystem, we can do more than just recruit – we can help define roles, provide real-time market insight, and connect founders to high-quality talent, including those who aren’t actively looking but are open to the right opportunity." Georgia Barnes, Client Development Manager, Talentmark Cat, Georgia and Charlie at Lab Live 2026 This is just the beginning Talent is consistently one of the biggest growth barriers for early-stage science companies and supporting our tenants means helping you build the teams that will drive your science forward. The Talentmark partnership is a strong next step in that mission and there is more to come as we continue to develop and expand these pathways. "I don't want it to be just a building." — Founder, Cleantech company Neither do we. Find out more about the ecosystem we are building at 1 Portal Way About Talentmark

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