A new state-of-the-art lab has opened in the UK to accelerate the development of cancer diagnostic solutions. 

Vortex Biotech has opened a new laboratory at Manchester Science Park, hoping to accelerate the development of cancer diagnostic solutions.

The laboratories are designed to GLP-ready specifications, allowing future expansion into clinical trial support and commercial product and services development. The site also serves as Vortex’s European hub for research partnerships, with planned collaborations in single-cell analysis, molecular profiling, and AI-driven data integration. 

Backed by EMV Capital, Vortex’s proprietary liquid biopsy platform isolates and enriches circulating tumour cells (CTCs) and other rare biomarkers from blood samples, enabling high-sensitivity cancer detection, monitoring, and translational research.  

“The establishment of our laboratory at Manchester Science Park is a strategic step in expanding collaborations with leading academic and clinical institutions and positions the company for growth,” said Nigel Brooksby, Non-Executive Chairman at Vortex. 

“The Park’s proximity to the University of Manchester, NHS Manchester Foundation Trust, and a thriving life sciences ecosystem provides direct access to world-class expertise, clinical samples, and translational infrastructure essential for advancing liquid biopsy into clinical practice.” 

“Vortex Biotech’s decision to relocate from London to Manchester Science Park shows what Greater Manchester can offer life sciences companies looking to scale,” added Joe Manning, Managing Director at MIDAS, Manchester’s Inward Investment Agency. 

“The technology developed will enable earlier cancer detection through blood samples, strengthening Greater Manchester’s position in cancer diagnostics. 

“The company chose our city region because we offer direct access to the University of Manchester’s research capabilities, partnerships through the NHS Manchester Foundation Trust, and a talented workforce. The expansion will create new skilled jobs in diagnostics, science, data and operations, with a commitment to developing local talent through apprenticeships and early-career pathways.”