Dr Rich Ferrie named new CEO at Babraham Research Campus

Dr Ferrie joins from LBIC (London Bioscience Innovation Centre Ltd) – a key provider of innovation space and support services for early and growth stage life science companies in London. As CEO, he led the expansion in King’s Cross, doubling the Centre’s footprint.

Prior to LBIC, Dr Ferrie spent three years at University College Cork (UCC) as Director of Innovation, responsible for technology transfer, entrepreneurship, consultancy and incubation; further to 18 years at the University of Manchester culminating in the role of Director of Operations for its subsidiary innovation company. Earlier in his career he the led international sales and marketing function for AstraZeneca Diagnostics.

Jo Parfrey, Chair, Babraham Research Campus Board, said: “We are delighted to appoint Rich Ferrie as Chief Executive Officer of BRCL. Rich brings a strong track record of leadership, along with deep experience and an extensive network across the life sciences and innovation ecosystem. His vision and energy will be instrumental as BRCL enters its next phase of growth, and we are very much looking forward to working with him.”

Dr Ferrie said: "I'm delighted to be taking the reins as CEO of Babraham Research Campus at this pivotal time for UK life sciences. The Campus has a rich tradition of scientific leadership, with the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship a particular hallmark of the community. I am eager to work closely with the Board and colleagues at BRCL together with the broader Cambridge ecosystem to build on its strengths, deepen its impact, shape its future development and set a sustainable trajectory for growth."

Professor Anne Ferguson-Smith, Executive Chair of the UKRI Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) added: “As one of five BBSRC-supported research and innovation campuses, Babraham Research Campus demonstrates how strategic investment can catalyse growth. By connecting cutting-edge bioscience with entrepreneurial expertise, it enables promising companies to scale, strengthens the UK life sciences ecosystem and helps turn breakthrough research into tangible health and economic benefits.

“We welcome Rich as the new CEO and look forward to working with him as the Campus and its community enters its next phase of growth and enhanced impact.”