Harwell Science and Innovation Campus has won Best Research & Commercial Partnership at the Construction News and Property Week Life Sciences, Tech and Research Clusters Awards, recognising the success of its unique partnership model in delivering scientific excellence, economic growth and long-term societal impact.

The award comes as Harwell celebrates its 80th anniversary, marking eight decades of scientific discovery and innovation. Today, the 700-acre campus is home to a globally recognised ecosystem of researchers, innovators and businesses, built on the long-standing partnership between the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) and Brookfield Asset Management. Together, the partners have transformed Harwell into one of the UK’s leading science and innovation campuses and a major destination for international investment.

Over recent years, the partnership has driven significant growth across the campus, supporting the expansion of nationally important capabilities in life sciences, space, energy and quantum technologies. More than 600,000 sq. ft of new laboratory and innovation space has been delivered in the las two years, enabling Harwell to meet growing demand from science and technology organisations seeking access to world-class facilities, expertise and collaboration opportunities.

The award also recognises Harwell’s success in attracting new organisations and investment. Over a two-year period, more than 60 new occupiers have joined the campus, including major organisations such as Moderna and the UK Space Agency. During the same period, Harwell expanded its specialist incubator programmes supporting emerging space and quantum businesses and helped attract more than £2 billion of inward investment.

Dr Barbara Ghinelli, Director of Innovation Clusters and Harwell Campus, UKRI-STFC, said:

“We’re delighted to win Best Public-Private Partnership, recognising the strength of the joint venture partnership and the collaborative approach that sits at the very heart of Harwell. As we celebrate 80 years of scientific achievement, this award demonstrates how our unique partnership model continues to evolve, creating an environment where world-leading research, innovative businesses and investment can thrive together.

Through collaboration between the public and private sectors, we have built a globally recognised innovation ecosystem that delivers lasting economic and societal impact while helping to address some of the world’s biggest challenges.”

Judges praised the submission adding: “The Harwell Science and Innovation Campus is a stand-out public-private partnership that has developed one of the UK’s premier science campuses. A great public-private partnership with high levels of impact in their design, economic growth and community engagement.”

Alongside its scientific and commercial success, Harwell continues to play a leading role in public engagement and inclusive innovation. As part of its 80th anniversary celebrations, the campus welcomed more than 18,000 visitors through Open Week and delivered the Light Project, strengthening connections between science and society and inspiring future generations of scientists and innovators.

Harwell is also pioneering new approaches to sustainable and inclusive campus development, including the introduction of the UK’s first science campus Smart Grid and the delivery of neuroinclusive laboratory environments designed to support a broader range of talent within science and technology sectors.

The recognition reinforces Harwell’s position as one of Europe’s leading science and innovation campuses, demonstrating how a successful public-private partnership can accelerate scientific discovery, attract global investment and create lasting value for the UK economy.