A new innovation centre that could create up to 200 jobs is in the pipeline -- using expertise from Cambridge University.
The £4m development will be built at the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority site at Harwell if planners give the green light.
The scheme has been put forward by Start, a joint venture between developers and an innovation centre created by St John's College, Cambridge, 15 years ago.
One of the key features of the new centre will be to have a minimum of four resident experts to give business and financial advice to tenants.
Funding for the centre will come from a variety of sources, including individuals. It has no connection with Oxford Innovation, which has built 13 centres -- including one at Harwell.
Roger Perrin, managing director of Start, said: "We know what the Oxford Innovation model is and we are different -- the centre will be newly-built, have purpose-built laboratory and studio space and at least four business support staff which will be a combination of people from St John's and those recruited from Oxfordshire.
"We have particular links with a lot of technical staff in Cambridge University."
Ian Rodham, commercial manager at UKAEA's Harwell International Business Centre, said: "We have been aware for a long time there is a need for flexible premises for small, science-based businesses who can come and go on a short-term basis."
The new building could be open by September next year if planners at the Vale of White Horse District Council give the go-ahead.
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 The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.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 hereComments are closed on this article