Exeter Supernumerary Fellow Dame Molly Stevens shares the Biomedical Entrepreneurship Journey at EnSpire Event

Professor Dame Molly Stevens, Supernumerary Fellow at Exeter College, took part in a landmark EnSpire Oxford event, From Lab to Market: Pioneering Biomedical Entrepreneurship, on 24 June 2025. Held at the Holywell Music Room and introduced by Oxford’s Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Chas Bountra, the sold-out event brought together leading voices in scientific innovation and commercialisation. 

In conversation with Professor Robert Langer of MIT, one of the most influential figures in biotechnology, Professor Steven’s drew on her distinguished academic and entrepreneurial career to reflect on how transformative biomedical ideas progress from initial research to real-world application. She spoke candidly about the challenges of securing intellectual property, navigating complex regulatory systems, and building trust-based teams capable of advancing innovation at scale. 

A strong theme throughout the discussion was the importance of resilience and values-led leadership. Professor Steven’s also acknowledged the lasting impact of mentorship, noting that Professor Langer’s support during her postdoctoral work at MIT had been formative in shaping her translational research approach. 

The event attracted a broad audience of researchers, students, and aspiring entrepreneurs who were keen to learn from two pioneers of biomedical innovation. Professor Steven’s contribution highlighted the powerful intersection of rigorous science, inclusive leadership, and entrepreneurial vision.