Firm bidding to improve cancer treatments says North West move ‘positions the company for growth’
Andy Burnham was at Manchester Science Park for the opening of Vortex’s labs(Image: Vortex)
Andy Burnham says a Cambridge biotech firm’s move to expand into Manchester and create jobs there as “fantastic news for Greater Manchester”. Vortex Biotech Holdings has opened its advanced laboratory facilities at Manchester Science Park to serve as its R&D and commercial delivery centre.
Vortex develops liquid biopsy technology that can be used in cancer treatments. Its new site will also serve as the company’s European hub for research partnerships and allow for future expansion into clinical trial support and commercial product development.
Vortex was spun out from the University of California, Los Angeles. As well as its Cambridge and Manchester hubs, it also has a base in the Bay Area in California.
Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said: “Vortex Biotech’s expansion at Manchester Science Park is fantastic news for Greater Manchester and a further vote of confidence in our life sciences sector.
“This investment strengthens our established life sciences cluster on the Oxford Road Corridor, where companies can access the world-class research, clinical networks and talent they need to succeed.
“This new site will create high-skilled, high-value jobs for people across Greater Manchester, while developing diagnostic technologies that could improve the treatment of cancer worldwide.”
Nigel Brooksby, non-executive chairman at Vortex, said: “The establishment of our laboratory at Manchester Science Park is a strategic step in expanding collaborations with leading academic and clinical institutions and positions the company for growth.
“The Park’s proximity to the University of Manchester, NHS Manchester Foundation Trust, and a thriving life sciences ecosystem provides direct access to world-class expertise, clinical samples, and translational infrastructure essential for advancing liquid biopsy into clinical practice.”
Joe Manning, managing director at MIDAS, Manchester’s inward investment agency, added: “Vortex Biotech’s decision to relocate from London to Manchester Science Park shows what Greater Manchester can offer life sciences companies looking to scale. The technology developed will enable earlier cancer detection through blood samples, strengthening Greater Manchester’s position in cancer diagnostics.
“The company chose our city region because we offer direct access to the University of Manchester’s research capabilities, partnerships through the NHS Manchester Foundation Trust, and a talented workforce. The expansion will create new skilled jobs in diagnostics, science, data and operations, with a commitment to developing local talent through apprenticeships and early-career pathways.”