Prince of Wales Celebrates Environmental Innovation at Surrey Research Park with Visit to Earthshot Finalist NatureMetrics
The Prince of Wales visited Surrey Research Park today to champion environmental innovation at NatureMetrics, a finalist in last year’s prestigious Earthshot Prize.
Guided by Kat Bruce, the company’s founder, alongside a scientist and local school children, Prince William began his visit with a live demonstration of eDNA collection from one of the Park’s biodiversity-rich ponds – a haven for freshwater fish and wildfowl.
NatureMetrics, a pioneer in biodiversity measurement, has been based at the University of Surrey-owned Research Park since May 2021. The company’s innovative technology enables organisations to measure and report on their impact on nature, providing critical data to better protect and sustain ecosystems.
Using patented techniques, NatureMetrics can identify tiny traces of DNA left behind by species – from bacteria to blue whales – making nature data collection accessible at an unprecedented scale.
Prince William’s visit comes at a pivotal moment for the company, which recently secured £20 million ($25 million) in Series B investment, supported by The Earthshot Prize’s investment platform Launchpad.
It’s always exciting to welcome a member of the royal family to Surrey Research Park, and this visit was particularly special as it not only highlights the expertise of businesses at the Park but also the incredible biodiversity here. It’s the perfect backdrop to NatureMetrics’ work, which exemplifies innovation to identify and protect habitats and safeguard the health of our planet.Caroline Fleming, Director of the Surrey Innovation District ecosystem at the University of Surrey
We’re incredibly impressed by NatureMetrics’ successes – from being a global finalist in last year’s Earthshot Prize to securing significant investment earlier this month. The company’s growth story is an excellent example of the innovation that has defined Surrey Research Park for the past 40 years. We are delighted to provide a business ecosystem where companies like NatureMetrics can grow and teams can thrive.
Surrey Research Park, University of Surrey, and NatureMetrics: A Collaborative Partnership
As part of Surrey Research Park’s dynamic innovation ecosystem, NatureMetrics has played an active role in knowledge-sharing and community engagement. In 2024, the company hosted several inspirational student career tours and contributed its environmental expertise to the Park’s Environmental, Sustainability, and Governance (ESG) group, supporting fellow tenants in their sustainability initiatives.
Beyond the Park, NatureMetrics has partnered with the University of Surrey to inspire the next generation. Last year, the company collaborated with the University’s Institute for Sustainability to give primary school children hands-on experience with its easy-to-use eDNA soil kits at Winchester Science Centre.
NatureMetrics' leadership has also been instrumental in fostering entrepreneurship within the Surrey business community. In November, CEO Dimple Patel joined a panel discussion at the Surrey Women’s Entrepreneurship Network, established and chaired by Surrey Research Park, where she shared insights on her journey as an entrepreneur.
Most recently, as part of the Park’s 40th anniversary celebrations and International Women’s Day, NatureMetrics’ Chief Scientific Officer Juliet Jones and Research Development Lead Tiffany Jedrecka are featured in The Women of Surrey Research Park exhibition and social media campaign. This initiative highlights the inspiring stories of women working in STEM at the Park, reinforcing Surrey Research Park’s ongoing commitment to supporting talent, diversity, and innovation.
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