At BioGrad Education, we believe every student deserves access to world-class scientific training , no matter where they study. That’s why we work in partnership with universities across the UK to expand hands-on learning, share cutting-edge laboratory resources, and inspire the next generation of scientists through real-world experience.
From major equipment donations to exclusive residential opportunities, our collaborations are helping universities strengthen practical science teaching and empower students to thrive in the life sciences sector.
Supporting Universities with £10.5 Million in PCR Equipment Donations
Since summer 2025, BioGrad has been leading a national campaign to improve access to laboratory equipment in higher education. Working with our academic partners, we’ve already delivered over £6 million worth of Genesig Q16 Real-Time PCR machines, with £10.5 million in donations scheduled by the end of 2025.
These advanced instruments are transforming how universities teach molecular biology and biotechnology — allowing students to perform real DNA and RNA analysis, explore diagnostic applications, and gain the hands-on skills demanded by modern research and industry laboratories.
Our PCR donation programme supports institutions across the country, including: University College London, University of Chester, University of Huddersfield, Edinburgh Napier University, Edge Hill University, Lancaster University, University of Hertfordshire, University of Warwick, Heriot-Watt University, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, and many more.
Each donation is accompanied by free guest lectures from Dr Natalie Kenny, BioGrad’s CEO and founder, covering topics such as emerging opportunities in the life sciences, BioGrad’s Women’s Health Biobank, and the importance of laboratory skills in scientific careers. The programme aligns with the UK Government’s Science and Technology Framework and focuses particularly on closing the regional gap in science funding — prioritising universities and colleges in the Northern Arc, where access to laboratory technology is often limited.
“The delivery of these PCR machines will significantly enhance our ability to train aspiring scientists across a wide range of disciplines. We are immensely grateful to BioGrad for recognising the huge value of state-of-the-art equipment in laboratory and fieldwork, and supporting our educational activities with this generous act of philanthropy.” — Professor Andrew Pomiankowski, Director of Biosciences, University College London
“The University of Hertfordshire is immensely grateful to the BioGrad group for this donation of PCR machines. This will transform our ability to deliver high-quality, hands-on molecular biology training for our students, positively impacting the education and skills of 3,500 learners over the next 10 years.” — Dr Simon Baines, Head of Biosciences, University of Hertfordshire
Beyond the UK, BioGrad’s impact extends globally. We’ve partnered with the ARTIC Network, based at the University of Birmingham and University of Cambridge, to provide equipment for training in Africa — helping reduce the cost of gene sequencing during disease outbreaks and strengthening preparedness for future global health challenges.
Alongside our equipment donation scheme, BioGrad delivers exclusive weekend residential programmes for university partners. These immersive two-day courses give students the opportunity to train in BioGrad’s industry laboratories at our Liverpool headquarters — working directly alongside industry scientists.
Each residential offers a unique experience that bridges classroom learning with real-world practice. Students take part in a structured programme that can include:
Students take part in a structured programme
that can include:
* Molecular diagnostics and qPCR training
* DNA extraction and gel electrophoresis
* Cell culture in BioGrad’s Stem Cell Research Centre
* Clinical trial design and ethics
* Industry led seminars and networking opportunities
Every residential includes:
* Two full days of hands on laboratory training
* Return coach travel from the university
* Private overnight accommodation
* A Saturday evening networking and social event
These residentials are tailored to each partner university and designed to complement academic study with practical, industry-aligned experience. Students leave with enhanced confidence, employability, and an understanding of the real-world applications of their studies.
“Our students described the weekend as transformational , it gave them a real insight into what working in biotechnology feels like, and opened their eyes to new career paths.”— University Partner Feedback
