Almac has entered an academic collaboration for a synthetic biology project to develop novel routes to chemicals with Bangor University (Wales) and Hockley International, a manufacturer of environmental health and industrial chemical products. The Biotechnology & Biological Sciences Research Council and Technology Strategy Board is providing £1 million to fund research aimed at bringing a novel chemical to market produced via an enzymatic route from under-utilized natural oil.
 
Almac is currently performing the R&D work at its labs in Northern Ireland. The company is partnering with scientific experts from both the University’s College of Natural Sciences and Hockley for the three-year project.
 
Professor Tom Moody, head of Biocatalysis & Isotope Chemistry at Almac, said, “Almac has cultivated considerable enzyme technology experience and expertise over the past decade and collaboration in this research is especially important for the development of green processes in this industry. Our expert team of scientists are excited to work on this project as we recognize the opportunity for researchers across industry and academia to work more closely together, sharing skills and knowledge to deliver truly excellent research that can make an impact not just on this project but also the UK. Indeed, we are delighted to be at the forefront of such partnerships.”
 
Frank Howard, MD and owner of Hockley International, added, “We look forward to starting this major three year project in synthetic biology along with Almac and Bangor University which promises to be most exciting and scientifically challenging for us all.”