The UK's science minister has commended an Oxfordshire science campus for its "remarkable achievement" of introducing 25 new businesses, creating more than 300 jobs.
MP Andrew Griffith toured Harwell Science and Innovation Campus as its annual report was released.
He visited RAL Space, operated by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC).
Harwell Campus now houses 240 organisations and employs 7,000 staff members.
The campus has seen new businesses arrive in its energy, health, and space sectors in the last year.
Mr Griffith said: "Harwell Campus' remarkable achievement in welcoming 25 new businesses is a testament to the thriving ecosystem we have cultivated."
He added: "This growth not only positions us as a key player in global research and development but also marks a significant stride towards our vision of a robust and innovative UK space sector."
READ MORE: Spear's Schools Index: Five Oxfordshire schools make top 500
The companies that recently joined Harwell operate in a range of fields including pharmaceuticals, space, agriculture, and energy.
Moderna’s development base in Harwell contributed to nearly a third of all space rented across Oxfordshire in 2023.
The addition of the new companies is in line with Harwell's aim to expand.
Neil Buchanan, co-founder and CEO of 2023 addition Lodestar Space, said: "Having a presence at Harwell Campus has been a game changer for us.
"Being on-site has given us access to the leading deep-tech ecosystem in the UK, where customer visits are a short walk down the road, and world-leading testing facilities are at your disposal."
The campus plans to add more than 440,000 sq. ft of new laboratory and R&D buildings.
The campus has the largest array of national laboratories globally, operated by the STFC, academia and other established organisations.
The STFC RAL Space's National Satellite Test Facility's first two customers for 2024 have already been confirmed.
Also, the opening of the National Quantum Computing Centre, a new institution funded through Government department UK Research and Innovation to accelerate the development of quantum computing, is anticipated later this year.
Stuart Grant, CEO of Harwell Campus, said: "Over the last twelve months, we’re delighted to have welcomed 25 new innovative businesses and over 300 talented people into our thriving ecosystem.
"Introducing new talent and expertise within these vital sectors will undoubtedly drive more cross-sector collaboration and propel the heights of scientific and technological advancement.
"We believe that the collaborative environment created here at Harwell will inspire breakthroughs that have the potential to change the world and improve lives.”
Dr Barbara Ghinelli, director of Harwell Clusters, said: "We are extremely proud to grow our campus, and the new members of our community are a testament in our commitment to accelerate groundbreaking science.
"I eagerly look forward to witnessing the creativity and innovation in their mission to confront the challenges our world faces today."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here