The Key People behind Bioniqs

Dr. Adam Walker MRSC - CEO and Co-founder
Adam studied chemistry at the University of Wales, where he completed a Masters degree in organic synthesis. Adam moved to the University of Cambridge, to undertake a PhD under the supervision of Professor Neil Bruce, in the area of biocatalysis in ionic liquids. In the course of these studies and subsequent postdoctoral research at the University of York, Adam developed the key platform technologies upon which Bioniqs’ business is based.

Prof. Neil Bruce FRSC - Director and Co-founder
Neil Bruce is currently Professor of Biotechnology at the Centre for Novel Agricultural Products (CNAP) at the University of York and is a leading expert in biocatalysis and environmental biotechnology. Following a PhD in microbial biochemistry Neil joined the Institute of Biotechnology at the University of Cambridge as a postdoctoral research associate and was awarded a Research Fellowship at Wolfson College. He was subsequently appointed to a University Lectureship and then a Readership in Biotechnology in the same department. He then took on his current role of Chair of Biotechnology at the University of York in July 2002.

Dr. Guy Hembury - Senior Scientist
After completing a PhD in chemistry at the University of Sheffield, studying the factors influencing intermolecular interactions, Guy spent five years working in Osaka for the Japan Science & Technology Agency. During this time, he pursued varied studies into the control of chiral processes in solution, focusing on the role played by solvents and the commercial application of molecular technologies. Prior to joining Bioniqs, he worked for three years at the University of Manchester’s Molecular Materials Centre, investigating the influence of solvent on commercially important processes and creating links with business to foster the exchange of knowledge and ideas.

Dr. Lorna Crowhurst - Senior Researcher
Lorna studied for her Masters and PhD degrees at Imperial College London. She completed a PhD (GSK funded) and postdoctoral work (BASF funded) with Prof. Tom Welton, studying the solvation properties of ionic liquids. Work focussed on solutions of acids, of inherently acidic ionic liquids, and reactivity in these media. Further postdoctoral work with Prof. Chris Hunter FRS, researching solvent effects on hydrogen bonding, has broadened her understanding of solvation, and encouraged an interest in high-throughput methodologies.

Robert Newton ACIM - Marketing Manager
Robert studied at Buckinghamshire University where he completed a degree in Marketing Management. He joined the security company Pyronix, where as a marketing assistant he gained experience in a wide range of marketing activities. Alongside his work Robert undertook a Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) professional diploma. He joined the Bioniqs team in 2006 as Marketing Manager.