Newcastle spin-outs bring research to market

Two Newcastle-based startups are commercialising cutting-edge research.

Newcastle University spin-outs Ocular Systems and RecoVolt have launched to commercialise cutting-edge technologies, backed by strengthened leadership teams. 

Ocular Systems has developed a patented 3D particle measurement system that delivers real-time, three-dimensional imaging of particles in motion. 

The technology, applicable to pharmaceuticals, batteries, fertilisers, food and cosmetics, helps manufacturers predict material behaviour during processing, improving product performance while reducing development time and cost. 

Executive chair Dr Neil Loxley leads the company alongside co-founders Dr Sadegh Nadimi Shahraki and Dr Vasileios Angelidakis, with Chris Beevers overseeing commercial strategy.

Dr Loxley said: “I’m thrilled to be working with the brilliant team at Ocular to commercialise their groundbreaking technology, which has the potential to deliver significant value across multiple sectors.”

Meanwhile, RecoVolt addresses electric vehicle battery waste with a dual offering: a discharging kit for safer, faster battery deactivation and a diagnostic platform for reuse or recycling. 

The spin-out is led by Dr Mahfuz Kamal and Dr Simon Lambert, joined by Stephen Irish and Cristoph Atkins to drive commercial growth.

Dr Kamal added: “I'm so pleased to reach this significant milestone in our journey towards becoming a critical infrastructure provider in EV battery management, helping third-parties significantly contribute towards sustainability goals, increase efficiency and realise financial benefits in a growing EV market.”

The spin-outs have been supported by North East law firm Ward Hadaway, which advised on all legal aspects, including shareholder agreements, governance and licensing the university's intellectual property.

Sally Sanderson, associate in the intellectual property team at Ward Hadaway, added: “It has been a pleasure to support Ocular and RecoVolt on the first steps of their journey. 

“Their technologies are genuinely novel and the intellectual property licensing considerations were complex. 

“We work with over half of Newcastle University’s current spin-out portfolio and look forward to supporting these businesses as they grow.”

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