Phage Innovation Network
Driving innovation in the development of phage-based technologies for applications across multiple sectors, ensuring the UK maintains its strong stance on tackling antimicrobial resistance and furthering phage research and development in the UK.
About the Phage Innovation Network
Phage-based technologies (PBTs) can be used in a variety of ways and are useful for different applications across multiple sectors. PBTs can be used as diagnostic tools, surveillance tools, sustainable biocontrol agents and they are viable aids for addressing the global issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
There is a significant, globally recognised knowledge base for phage (also known as bacteriophage) research and development in the UK. However, there are barriers to realising the potential of PBTs and translating knowledge into real-world solutions.
Innovate UK’s Phage Innovation Network is working to address these barriers to further the development and use of PBTs and ensure the UK maintains its strong stance on tackling AMR.
Key sectors
Human health
Phages can be used as therapeutic agents and diagnostic tools in human medicine.
Animal health
Phages can be used as feed additives, therapeutics, and more in veterinary medicine.
Food safety
Phages can be used as biocontrol agents to reduce the spread of foodborne pathogens.
Crop production
Phages can be used to reduce the spread of plant pathogens and spoilage organisms.
Aquaculture
Phages can be used to reduce levels of pathogenic bacteria and prevent disease.
Water
Phages can be used as tools to assess water quality.
How network activity can support you
The Phage Innovation Network is working to further the development and implementation of PBTs in the UK in a variety of ways.
Understand emerging innovations
The Phage Innovation Network provides a forum for the UK’s community of phage researchers, innovative companies, end user industries, funders, regulators, those interested in alternatives to antibacterial solutions, and other key stakeholders to network and develop new ideas.
Improve awareness and engagement in the development of PBTs
The network showcases PBTs to increase awareness of their potential among key stakeholders across multiple sectors and strengthen and improve engagement in their development.
Change perceptions of anti-infectives
Expand network activities to contribute to redefining antimicrobials as infrastructure necessary for global health and economic security.
UK Phage Innovation Showcase
This event showcased translational research into developing phage-based technologies in the UK.
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Virtual Phage Innovation Exhibition
Explore this collection of translational phage work that is ongoing in the UK.
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Our Experts
Related Events and Recordings
Related News
01/02/2024
Phage Innovation Network delivers significant impact
Innovate UK has welcomed the House of Commons Science, Innovation and Technology Committee’s recent report on the findings of its inquiry into the antimicrobial potential of phages.
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24/07/2024
£3.2m funding awarded to advance early-stage healthcare innovation
Thirty-three companies, which took part in Innovate UK Biomedical Catalyst pilot accelerators, have been awarded funding to further develop their innovative projects.
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Opens: 12/11/2024 Closes: 17/01/2025
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DASA challenge: Future-proofing Biosecurity by Strengthening the UK’s Microbial Forensics Capability
Opens: 12/12/2024 Closes: 18/02/2025
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Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP): 2024 to 2025 Round 5
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UK registered academic institutions, RTOs or Catapults can apply for a share of up to £9m to fund innovation projects with businesses or not for profits.