Pharmagene Discovery Services Ltd. has announced its launch alongside the acquisition of an established human tissue laboratory business based near Cambridge, UK. The move brings together an experienced leadership team, long-standing laboratory infrastructure, and nearly three decades of expertise in human tissue-based research.

The acquired business, originally founded in 1996 and now returning to its original trading name, specializes in laboratory-based research services using consented human tissue across both preclinical and clinical settings. Over the past 30 years, it has conducted hundreds of studies for clients worldwide.

Strengthening human tissue-based research capabilities

With the acquisition complete, Pharmagene inherits the laboratory’s facilities, scientific team, client base, and accumulated technical know-how. The company aims to build on this foundation to support life science organizations in discovery and translational research.

Tom Mander, CEO and co-founder of Pharmagene, said: “We are thrilled to be taking on the business and are grateful to the previous owners for agreeing to sell the business to us. We inherit all the laboratory infrastructure, people and clients alongside all the know-how and expertise within the company.”

He added: “Amanda, Richard and I look forward to working with the life science community to continue to demonstrate the value of human tissue-based research. We are fully committed to supporting our clients with their discovery and translational research projects to develop safe, effective new medicines to treat disease.”

A legacy of innovation and scientific expertise

The launch coincides with the Royston-based scientific team marking 30 years of delivering human tissue-based research services to the biopharma industry. During that time, the laboratory has adapted to significant technological and methodological advances.

Amanda Woodrooffe, CSO and co-founder, commented: “Coinciding with the Royston UK scientific team celebrating 30 years of delivering human tissue-based research services to the biopharma industry, I am absolutely delighted that we have this opportunity to take the business forward to its next chapter.”

She noted the implementation of advanced analytical platforms and tailored assays, adding: “We apply our knowledge, experience, and innovative methods, maintaining a commitment to continuous learning and development to provide optimal scientific solutions tailored to each project.”

Advanced Lab Management Certificate

The Advanced Lab Management certificate is more than training—it’s a professional advantage.

Gain critical skills and IACET-approved CEUs that make a measurable difference.

Supporting decision-making in drug discovery

Pharmagene positions itself as a specialist CRO focused on flexible, consultative partnerships, reflecting the growing importance of in vitro human data in drug discovery.

Richard Willock, CBO and co-founder, said: “Throughout my time working in drug discovery, the industry’s adoption of in vitro preclinical human data has grown year upon year, and its relevance and value is now ubiquitously accepted across the scientific community.”

He added: “As a pioneer in this field with three decades of experience, Pharmagene is now poised to grow strongly as the partner of choice for companies requiring deep expertise in human tissue-based research.”

What this means for lab managers

For laboratory leaders overseeing internal research or outsourcing decisions, the launch of Pharmagene brings continuity alongside expanded capability. The acquisition combines long-standing operational stability with renewed strategic focus, which may be particularly relevant for teams seeking reliable partners in human tissue-based studies.

Key considerations include:

• An established laboratory infrastructure and experienced scientific staff, reducing transition risk for ongoing and future projects
• Nearly 30 years of hands-on experience in consented human tissue research supporting both preclinical and clinical work
• Use of advanced analytical platforms and tailored assays aligned with emerging therapeutic modalities
• A flexible, consultative CRO approach designed to support translational research and earlier, more informed decision-making

The transaction was supported by advisors from HCR Legal LLP, Moss Solicitors LLP, and Whitings LLP.