Human Specific Research Community Midlands
Established to connect researchers across the Midlands who share an interest in advancing human-specific research, the Human Specific Research Community Midlands will provide a space for them to meet, connect, and build meaningful collaborations whilst ensuring their priorities and experiences are represented within the wider Human Specific Research Community.
The Midlands community is supported by regional champions Professor Chris Denning and Professor Cinzia Allegrucci at the University of Nottingham, and Dr Liam Weaver at the University of Warwick, who are helping to shape its direction with their invaluable insight and dedication to human-specific research.
Launch Event
Tuesday 24 November 2026 | 10am – 4pm | Senate Chamber, Trent Building, University of Nottingham | Free to attend
The Midlands has a strong tradition of making, testing, translating and applying innovation. The Human Specific Research Community Midlands launch event will bring together researchers from across the region to explore human-specific innovation, commercialisation and translational research – laying the foundations for a connected and engaged regional community.
Deadline for tickets: Friday 30 October 2026
Meet Our Champions
Professor Chris Denning
Based at the University of Nottingham, Professor Chris Denning uses stem cells to create mini hearts to understand how drugs and disease affect the cardiovascular system.
Professor Cinzia Allegrucci
Based at the University of Nottingham, Professor Allegrucci’s research uses stem cell models to understand how cancer develops and becomes resistant to treatment.
Dr Liam Weaver
Based at the University of Warwick, Dr Weaver’s research uses in silico approaches for critical care and emergency medicine.
What to expect on the day
- Presentations – Showcasing the outstanding human-specific research taking place in the Midlands.
- Roundtable Discussions – An opportunity to connect with fellow researchers, build new connections, and help shape the future of the community.
- Match-Maker Networking Opportunity – Designed as a focused networking time for researchers looking to build meaningful collaborations. Before the event, researchers can submit a list of technologies or expertise they are looking for from a potential collaborator, and in turn what they have to offer to a potential collaborator. On the day, they will be able to meet with their ‘Matches’ and discuss how to collaborate and apply for up to £TBC in grant funding.
- The Impact Factor: Turning an Idea into Action – A Dragon’s Den-style pitching session, offering the chance to secure up to £TBC to support a human-focused research project.
Join our Forum
A dedicated space for our Human Specific Research Community Midlands exists – to ask questions, share knowledge and expertise, and connect with like-minded peers. Watch this community grow and advance human-focused research in your region. Register in a few simple steps or log in to join the conversation: