Innovation in Oncology: Insights from Paris-Saclay and what it means for London Cancer Hub

The Populate team recently attended the Annual Innovation Summit at the Paris-Saclay Cancer Cluster, an inspiring gathering of researchers, founders and ecosystem leaders focused on how oncology breakthroughs can reach patients faster.

A strong theme throughout the day was the importance of aligning science, infrastructure and capital to help innovation scale, with honest discussions about funding, partnerships and the realities faced by early-stage companies. It was great to attend alongside Kindling Bio, an occupier at Innovation Gateway, highlighting the value of founders being part of global innovation conversations.

Many of the insights from Paris-Saclay strongly reflect what we’re building at London Cancer Hub in Sutton, championed by Socius and Aviva. With planning approval now in place, the Hub will deliver around one million square feet of research and laboratory space within a campus dedicated to cancer research, treatment and commercial innovation. The focus is on creating flexible, future-ready spaces, supporting talent and collaboration, and helping science-led companies not just start, but grow and scale.

Paris-Saclay’s integrated approach to discovery, delivery and scale reinforces our belief that when infrastructure, clinical excellence and commercial ambition are intentionally connected, innovation can move faster - and make a real difference for patients.