BU Research Blog

Are you a PhD student, postdoc, or early-career researcher with ground-breaking research you believe could change the world? Now is your chance to turn that vision into a reality. Applications for Conception X are open, offering you a unique opportunity to join Europe’s largest community for entrepreneurial researchers.

The deadline to apply is Tuesday 16 December 2025.

What is Conception X?

Conception X is a UK-based not-for-profit that runs the largest cross-university deeptech venture programme for researchers across Europe. Its core mission is to turn more scientists and engineers into founders, accelerating breakthroughs and building new career pathways for researchers.

Since launching in 2018, Conception X has recruited eight cohorts from 80+ universities across 11 countries, and accelerated success in the deeptech ecosystem:

• 191 deeptech companies have been built.
• The portfolio is valued at £500 million.
• Startups have developed everything from vaccines for cancer metastasis to living building materials that absorb carbon.
• Successful ventures include quantum drug discovery company Rahko, energy optimisation startup Kapacity.io, and LLM evaluation platform Humanloop.

Research to Real-World Impact

Conception X is designed to fit around your research timeline, helping you translate cutting-edge work into real-world impact. They recognise that not all research is at the same stage, so they offer a two-track approach. This flexible model ensures you can move at a pace that works best for you and your project.

• Move Fast: For researchers ready to quickly move toward their first investment raise.
• Explore: For those who want to explore research commercialisation at a more measured pace.

BU Success Story: Green Hydrogen Pioneer

Earlier this year, Conception X welcomed Cohort 8, which included BU PhD researcher Shadeepa Karunarathne and his startup, OcenGen.

OcenGen is pioneering green hydrogen production by developing next-generation, low-cost electrocatalysts that can generate hydrogen directly from seawater without costly desalination. This ground-breaking BU research aligns closely with the UK’s Net Zero goals, demonstrating how fundamental science can be quickly translated into practical solutions for global energy challenges.

Find out more

What Conception X Offers

From the moment you join, Conception X provides critical support and unparalleled access:

• Connections: You will be connected directly with industry decision-makers and investors.
• Funding Opportunities: They help you become eligible for innovation grants, awards, and equity investment.
• Support: Gain access to tailored coaching and networking opportunities to build your startup foundation.

For the top-performing founders, there is the chance to pitch directly to the Conception X Angel Syndicate and XTX Ventures, with the potential to receive up to £250k in investment.

A Proven Track Record

Since its launch in 2018, Conception X has championed success in the deeptech ecosystem:

• 600+ researchers have been supported in launching deeptech startups based on their research.
• 190+ companies have been created.
• These companies have collectively raised £147+ million in early-stage investments and grants.

Your Next Step: Join a Discovery Session

Want to hear directly from people who have gone through the process?

Register for a Discovery Session. It is the perfect opportunity to:

• Hear inspiring stories from Conception X alumni.
• Learn more about the available pathways.
• Get all your questions answered.

Please visit the Conception X website to learn more about the programme, register for a session, and apply when you are ready.