Spectre Bio joins the BioEscalator at a pivotal moment as it transitions from computational research to hands-on laboratory development. Since its incorporation in March 2025, the company has been building the foundations of its technology: a breakthrough process that can disintegrate a bacterium’s genome while preserving the essential cellular machinery required for user-defined applications. This innovation underpins the company’s versatile Bacterial-Like Particle (BLiP) platform, programmable, non-replicative bacterial cells that retain a full native antigen profile while being completely inactivated.
Spectre Bio has deep roots within Oxford’s scientific community. Both co-founders, Dr Boon Chuan Lim and Dr Chia-Chen (Jane) Hsu, are former Oxford researchers and draw on their strong professional networks across the university for consultation and collaboration.
The company’s lead programme targets Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), a major unmet medical need and a key driver of antimicrobial resistance, to deliver a non-antibiotic prophylactic vaccine. The company seeks to break the cycle of recurrent infections that affects millions of patients worldwide.
Spectre Bio shared that joining the BioEscalator offers a uniquely beneficial environment for its next stage of growth. The strong links to the University of Oxford, access to cutting-edge facilities and equipment, and proximity to a diverse pool of advisors and consultants will meaningfully accelerate their R&D and strategic development. Being part of a vibrant community of biotech and life science start-ups also opens new opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and partnership.
We are thrilled to welcome Spectre Bio into the BioEscalator community and look forward to supporting their mission as they advance innovative solutions in the field.
Welcome to the BioEscalator, Spectre Bio.