A new film has been released showing how a key North East site built on a former coal mine and a brewery has become a hub of innovation.
Newcastle Helix is becoming a powerhouse of scientific innovation, with groundbreaking companies, including Hexis Lab and ExplantLab, leading the charge in revolutionising their respective industries and now taking on a starring role in the first of a new series of films all about the Future of Work.
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The Future of Collaboration also features Helen Crampin from the National Innovation Centre for Ageing, also based at Newcastle Helix, who explores the importance of collaboration in creating solutions for healthier, longer lives; Dr. Bess Price, Lecturer in Psychology at Newcastle University, who gives her expert view on collaboration; Di Gates from Connection Heroes, who discusses how fostering a culture of connection within organisations can unlock the full potential of their teams; and Bev Fox from Boho Arts, who emphasises the role of improvisation and creative collaboration in building resilience and wellbeing.
Hexis Lab
At the forefront of the cosmetics industry, Hexis Lab, in collaboration with NewChem Technologies, is breaking new ground in hair care tailored for women with Type 3 and Type 4 textured hair. Combining advanced chemistry and artificial intelligence, the partnership has developed the Layla & Kays shampoo and conditioner line, now available online and through retailers in India.
This innovation stems from the personal journey of Hexis Lab’s CEO, Sola Idowu, whose daughter, a national swimmer with textured hair, struggled to find suitable haircare products. Inspired by this challenge, Sola partnered with Bernard Golding, a renowned chemist and Emeritus Professor at Newcastle University, to create a product line that meets the unique needs of textured hair but also prioritises sustainability by significantly reducing the number of ingredients in each product.
“Through our work at Newcastle Helix, we’ve been able to push the boundaries of what’s possible in cosmetic chemistry,” said Sola Idowu.
“Our goal is to deliver products that genuinely address the needs of those with curly and kinky hair, ensuring their hair remains healthy and strong.”
ExplantLab
ExplantLab is transforming joint replacement technology through its pioneering research and collaborative approach. Led by orthopaedic surgeon David Langton, ExplantLab is the world’s only independent retrieval laboratory focused on analysing failed implants. This unique expertise enables the development of personalised solutions.
In partnership with Newcastle University and a team of interdisciplinary experts, ExplantLab has developed a genetic test to match patients with the most compatible implant materials. This innovation addresses the limitations of traditional materials like cobalt-chrome alloys, reducing adverse reactions and extending the lifespan of implants.
“The creation of ExplantLab was driven by a critical gap in the analysis of failed implants,” said David Langton.
“Our collaboration with experts across various fields allows us to create tailored solutions that significantly improve patient outcomes.”
John Seager, Estates Director at Newcastle Helix said: “Newcastle Helix is proud to support the work of Hexis Lab and ExplantLab. Their achievements are a testament to the power of interdisciplinary collaboration in driving scientific innovation and delivering real-world benefits.”
“This is a film that explores the concept of collaboration as a fundamental driver of innovation and progress across various fields and industries at Newcastle Helix and across the wider region but with wider implications.
“Collaboration has been the driving force behind some of the world’s most remarkable achievements and it’s happening every day here at Helix. It’s great to witness how collective effort, shared goals, and the merging of diverse ideas lead to breakthroughs that are shaping society for the better. We are very proud to showcase the importance of teamwork, trust and communication in fostering successful collaborations.”
- The full film is HERE
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