Key Networking Events in 2026 for Pharmaceutical, Biotech, and Gene/Cell Therapy Professionals in the UK
- Tom Marsden
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
As the owner of eCTD Pharma, I appreciate how UK events deliver targeted networking in a dynamic ecosystem, with easier access to MHRA regulators, UK investors, and European partners. Following feedback, I've expanded this list to include more events—both paid conferences (with strong partnering and exhibition opportunities) and free or low-cost networking meetups (ideal for informal connections).
This covers a broader range of 2026 options across pharma, biotech, and advanced therapies. I've noted approximate costs where known (many offer early-bird or member discounts; free events are highlighted). Dates are based on announcements as of December 2025—always confirm on official sites.
January–February 2026
3rd World Congress on Biologics and Biosimilars (Paid) February 23–24 | London Focuses on biologics, biosimilars, and gene/cell therapy integration. Great for scientific exchange and industry networking.
March 2026
Cell & Gene Therapy Summit Europe (Paid) March 5–6 | London Exclusive executive gathering with curated one-on-one meetings for CGT leaders.
Advanced Therapies Congress (Paid – tickets ~£1,000–£2,000) March 17–18 | ExCeL London Europe's largest cell and gene therapy event: 3,300+ attendees, 300 speakers, startup zone, and extensive partnering.
AngloNordic Life Science Conference (Paid – often invite-only or selective) April 23 (reception) & 24 | London Premier UK-Nordic partnering event for drug discovery, biotech, and investors.
April 2026
British Society for Gene and Cell Therapy (BSGCT) Annual Conference (Paid – member discounts available) April 15–17 | Newcastle UK's flagship academic-industry event for gene and cell therapy research, clinical advances, and networking.
May 2026
30th Annual Meeting on Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Paid) May 21–22 | London International forum on biopharma innovations, gene therapy, and drug delivery.
June 2026
London Biotechnology Show (3rd Edition) (Paid – exhibition-focused) June 9–10 | London Showcases biotech advancements with strong networking across pharma, medicine, and value chain stakeholders.
December 2026
SynbiTECH 2026 (Paid) December 1–2 | IET London: Savoy Place Leading synthetic biology conference with applications in cell/gene therapies and industry partnerships.
Ongoing/Free Networking Opportunities in 2026
BIA (BioIndustry Association) Networking Events (Many free for members/non-members) Various dates/locations (e.g., March 5, May 21) | London and regional Free evening receptions, policy briefings, and sector-specific meetups—excellent for informal connections with biotech leaders.
Bionow Events & Biotech & Beers Meetups (Often free or low-cost) Various dates | Northern England (e.g., Alderley Park, Manchester) Agenda-free networking evenings, plus conferences like Precision Medicine and BioInfect—perfect for regional biotech/pharma professionals.
One Nucleus Networking Events (Mix of free/paid) Various dates | Cambridge/London Regular free meetups, breakfast briefings, and partnering sessions for life sciences companies.
These additions provide more options, from large-scale paid conferences for deal-making to free local meetups for building relationships without travel costs. UK events often feature MHRA sessions, making them invaluable for regulatory insights.
At eCTD Pharma, we leverage these to stay connected and support client submissions. Which ones (paid or free) are you considering? Let's connect if we'll cross paths!
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