NEWS23 October 2024

Spotlight shines on Surrey Research Park at UK science parks event

While this year’s UK Science Park Association (UKSPA) annual conference may have taken place in Warwick, there were plenty of Surrey Research Park features and anecdotes that highlighted Surrey as a cornerstone of the science park community.

With a strong line-up of guest speakers, case studies, and award nominees, Surrey’s presence stood out as a reflection of its role as a leading community for innovators and pioneers.

This was especially fitting because both Surrey Research Park and the UKSPA association are celebrating their 40th anniversaries this year.

The Past

UKSPA’s origins are inextricably linked to establishment of Surrey Research Park in 1985. Back then it was Malcolm Parry, then CEO of the Park, who co-founded the collaboration between the UK’s seven fledgling science parks.


Speaking at the conference, Malcolm, who is affectionately referred to as the ‘Godfather of UKSPA,’ shared how Surrey Research Park’s vision in the early days helped shape not only the Park itself but also the wider science park community, growing UKSPA from seven members to over 200 by 2024.


His leadership laid the foundation for future success stories, like Surrey Satellite Technology Limited (SSTL), one of the University of Surrey’s earliest spin-outs to be based at the Park.

Building on this legacy, Andrew Greenhalgh, Marketing Director of SSTL, spoke to delegates with warmth and humour about the importance of highlighting anchor companies within science parks. SSTL, now a global leader in satellite technology, remains a prime example of how supporting key businesses can drive engagement and growth across the Park.

Andrew reflected on the ongoing value of featuring ‘anchor’ companies like SSTL to raise the profile of Surrey Research Park. He also highlighted SSTL’s successes, shared some fun insights into the technicalities of a satellite launch and emphasised the company value of inclusion which aligns with the wider Surrey Research Park’s aims to celebrate and make more visible the underrepresented groups in STEM, with women in STEM a current focus for both SSTL and the Park.

The Present

Adding more weight to the Surrey’s credentials as a leader in innovation, was headline speaker Jim Al-Khalili (CBE FRS), broadcaster, author and currently Distinguished Professor Emeritus of the University of Surrey.


Caroline Fleming, Director of Surrey Innovation District ecosystem, and Kat Mack, Head of Engagement at Surrey Research Park, are key figures driving the Park’s strategic growth and leadership within the UK’s innovation landscape.

Caroline contributed as part of a headline leadership panel on sustainability issues. Through her insights she helped to reinforce Surrey’s commitment to embedding sustainability into the Park’s operations.

Meanwhile, Kat shared insight about the Park’s innovative approaches to community engagement, which supports collaboration and knowledge-sharing with the University of Surrey, while supporting our community members’ growth.

Together, their leadership reflects Surrey Research Park’s strategic goal to remain at the forefront of contributing to the UK’s science and research ecosystem by setting standards for inclusivity and sustainability, among other areas.

In addition to contributing ideas, we were also thrilled to be shortlisted and recognised for three categories of UKSPA’s awards. Our shortlisted nominees included SETsquared Alumni TRUEinvivo in the award for the Most Innovative Company at an UKSPA Member’s Location. Our vHive animal health business incubator, built around a strategic partnership between the University of Surrey and Zoetis, was shortlisted for the Partnership Award.

The Future

And looking ahead to the future, we were over the moon that our Oluwatobi (Toby) Balogun, Community and Engagement Officer, was chosen to be a finalist for the Newcomer Award – Most Inspirational Science Park Talent Under 35 category – well done Toby!

Look out for more information over the coming months about how you can help join in celebrating 40 years of Surrey Research Park.


Or if you would like to discover more about what makes Surrey Research Park so special and how we can support your team to thrive and business to grow – please get in touch.