The BioEscalator alumnus has expanded through an international playbook, in contrast to the more domestic focus seen across much of our community. Keen to learn more about OXcan’s approach, hear about its plans as it transitions to a new location, and gather reflections on its time at the BioEscalator, we recently spoke with co-founder, President and COO, Dr Andreas Halner.
The international approach
Launched in Oxford as a start-up by Andreas and Dr Peter Liu in 2019, the company’s strong collaborations with the University of Oxford and the desire to remain close to its high standards for clinical practice meant it put down roots locally. When Canadian Chief Product Officer Dr Daniel Szulc came on board, the company gained the opportunity to further establish its presence in Canada and tap into the country’s vibrant life sciences ecosystem. This included participation in the famous Creative Destruction Lab programme in Toronto and Vancouver in 2023/24.
US activities began this year, with preparations underway to establish a commercial laboratory and launch a future product in the United States. The recent arrival of CEO Simon Meier, who spent nearly two decades at Roche (including Roche Ventures), adds a new European dimension to the team alongside his corporate and investment expertise. The international approach makes staying connected across countries and time zones a priority for OXcan.
What are the advantages of this international approach, and would Andreas do the same again? He highlights external visibility, access to R&D collaborations, and additional funding opportunities as reasons he would embrace this model again.
“Our international presence brings us an expanded range of collaborators, a deep understanding of different healthcare environments and a wide source of funding.” - Dr Andreas Halner
The global outlook is reflected in the company’s two fundraising rounds during its time as a BioEscalator tenant. OXcan has raised over $18M from investors across the UK, North America, Europe and globally.
Growing across its locations
With Oxford remaining the location of the company’s headquarters, the move to larger premises provides an opportunity to expand its R&D activities. The US team will also grow significantly as OXcan advances its lead diagnostic through clinical studies ahead of initial commercialisation.
The Oxford ecosystem driving growth
As we discussed OXcan’s plans, Andreas also reflected on the company’s impressive development since it arrived at the BioEscalator and the role of the Oxford environment.
The Oxford ecosystem has included advisors and collaborators such as Professor Roman Fischer, an expert in discovery and clinical proteomics at the university, and Benedikt Kessler, Professor of Biochemistry and Mass Spectrometry at the Target Discovery Institute.
From one end of the R&D process to the other, OXcan has benefited from proximity to the Oxford Radcliffe Biobank and taking part in The Hill’s NHS-focused Market Access Accelerator. It has also worked with Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust on a biomarker study.
The benefits of the BioEscalator
Andreas and the OXcan team have greatly valued their time at the BioEscalator. There are many benefits to being located here, particularly the strong connectivity it provides to both the industrial and academic worlds, a ‘great environment for entrepreneurs’. Investors also welcome the opportunity to visit Oxford and meet companies in person. On the operational side, the monthly Mini Supplier Shows have facilitated the team’s engagement with the latest product and service offerings available.
Helping to build the community
Recognising the importance of the BioEscalator community and the networks that have supported OXcan’s growth, Andreas is enthusiastic about contributing to the next generation of companies. We look forward to welcoming him back in the future and benefiting from his experience as the company continues to expand and moves ever closer to becoming that unicorn.