ONE of the Strathclyde university scientists behind a blood test designed to detect brain tumours faster has delivered the winning 60 second pitch in a competition that helps emerging entrepreneurs develop the communications skills needed in business.
Dr Holly Butler, a research associate at the university, impressed the judges in the Converge Challenge Ready Steady Pitch event with her summary of how the ClinSpec Dx test could help improve the statistics for brain tumour diagnosis.
The test can allow same day diagnosis of an illness which is usually only detected following repeat visits to a doctor or in an emergency.
It is based on the analysis of small samples of blood.
“I’m incredibly pleased that the judges saw the potential in ClinSpec Dx,” said Ms Hunter. “Pitching was a nerve-wracking but very thrilling experience and it’s exciting to have the support from leading entrepreneurs and investors.”
The judges at the Edinburgh event included serial entrepreneur Lynne Cadenhead,
Dr Fiona Rudkin of the University of Aberdeen delivered the second placed pitch for mycoBiologics, which is developing technology that can be used to help combat invasive fungal infections.
Third place went to the novosound sensors operation. Its pitch was led by Dr Dave Hughes of the University of the West of Scotland.
Converge Challenge director Dr Olga Kozlova said: “Being able to communicate an innovative proposition in less than a minute is a core skill that will serve our participants well when they are talking to their customers and investors.”
The Converge Challenge programme was developed to encourage entrepreneurship among students and academics.
Sixty entries have been shortlisted for this year’s awards. A record 212 entries were received from 19 institutions.
Awards will be made for established ideas, earlier stage proposals and social enterprise projects.
The winners will be announced on 28 September.
Ms Butler won an iPad for her success with the pitch.
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