SCELSE, Haleon and PC Biome have formalised a strategic partnership to accelerate science-backed, microbiome-led innovations for everyday health.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) brings together a global consumer health leader, a multidisciplinary biofilm & microbiome research centre, and a Singapore biotechnology company to translate microbiome science into evidence-based solutions for diverse populations across Asia Pacific and beyond.

At the signing ceremony, Prof Alain Filloux, Centre Director of SCELSE, highlighted the centre’s internationally recognised strengths in biofilms and microbiomes. SCELSE integrates advanced biophysics, imaging, in-vivo and ex-vivo microbiome models, and deep mechanistic understanding of microbial interactions — capabilities that enable the co-development of differentiated formulations tailored for local health needs, including immunity, oral health, metabolic wellness, stress, and sleep.

PC Biome, led by Prof Patricia Conway, who is also SCELSE’s Visiting Professor, adds agility and innovation to the collaboration. The company contributes disruptive microbiome technologies and a rapid prototyping approach that bridges fundamental science with functional foods, supplements, and microbiome-modulating ingredients.

The partnership was further underscored by remarks from Prof Lim Kah Leong, Associate Vice President (Biomedical & Life Sciences), NTU, and Dr Michelle Zhang, Head, Technology Development, NTUitive, who emphasised the importance of connecting world-class research with entrepreneurial capabilities and industry translation.

Representing Haleon, Dr Keith Choy, President, Asia Pacific, reflected on the collaboration’s momentum since 2023 and Haleon’s ambition to reach one billion consumers by 2030. Mr Carl Haney, Chief R&D Officer, Haleon, reinforced the company’s consumer-first strategy, supported by sustained investment to ensure scientific rigour across product development.

The event concluded with a tour of SCELSE’s laboratories, featured in the video (coming soon), showcasing the scientific infrastructure supporting this collaboration. The tour was led by SCELSE researchers and facility experts — Dr James Ho, Dr Anika Cokro, Ms Justine Dacanay, and Mr Edric Sim — who demonstrated the centre’s advanced biofilm imaging, bioreactor, high-throughput sequencing capabilities, as well as the Haleon-sponsored gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) platform.

SCELSE extends its appreciation to all teams involved for their contributions in bringing the science behind this partnership to life. This collaboration marks an important step forward in shaping the future of microbiome-based health solutions — grounded in excellent research, enabled by strong collaboration, and focused on translational impact.