Oxford North: The New Innovation District in Oxford

How do you design a physical space that matches the lightning-fast pace of modern scientific discovery? This episode explores the new paradigm for innovation districts with Professor Dame Kay Davies and Victoria Collett of Thomas White Oxford, the development company of St. John's College. The conversation covers the critical transition from academic lab work, where Professor Davies has spent 30 years researching Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, to the intense, milestone-driven world of biotech spin-outs. Victoria Collett, Development Director for the £1.2  billion Oxford North project, explains how its mixed-use, master-planned environment—complete with flexible lab spaces, public art, and community areas—is specifically engineered to foster the "serendipitous moments" crucial for breakthroughs. Kay and Victoria also discuss the vital importance of connectivity, noting that the UK’s life sciences VC investment has been selective recently, making integrated innovation clusters like Oxford North, which is positioned on the East West Rail corridor, essential for capturing future talent and growth. (00:00) - Welcome to Oxford+ (01:10) - Kay Davies' Journey in Medical Research (02:10) - Challenges and Innovations in Drug Development (03:11) - The Role of Oxford North in Scientific Advancements (06:39) - Victoria Collett on Developing Oxford North (08:06) - Designing Spaces for Innovation and Collaboration (11:54) - Integrating Science, Art, and Community (18:19) - The Importance of Connectivity and Accessibility (25:49) - Long-Term Vision and Investment in Oxford North (29:33) - Historical Significance and Future Aspirations Professor Dame Kay Davies: An acclaimed academic and innovator, she is Emeritus Dr Lee’s Professor of Anatomy at the University of Oxford and a Fellow of Hertford College. Her research group has an international reputation for work on Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, an effort that has driven her journey from the academic lab to founding biotech spin-out companies to deliver effective treatments to patients. Her insights provide a critical 'user perspective' on the needs of a pioneering science ecosystem. Connect with Kay on LinkedInVictoria Collett: Development Director at Thomas White Oxford, the development company of St. John’s College, where she led the creation of Oxford North. A chartered surveyor with over 20 years of experience in development and regeneration, Victoria specialises in large-scale mixed-use masterplans, bringing a unique perspective on community, placemaking, and commercial flexibility to the £1.2 billion global innovation district.Connect with Victoria on LinkedInSusannah de Jager: Susannah is a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience in UK asset management. She has worked closely with industry experts, entrepreneurs, and government officials to shape the conversation around domestic scale-up capital.Connect with Susannah on LinkedIn / Subscribe to the Oxford+ Newsletter for exclusive contentOxford+ is hosted by Susannah de Jager and supported by Mishcon de Reya and Oxford North.Produced and edited by Story Ninety-Four in Oxford.