BIO-Europe Autumn

Jonathan Thomas

Since joining Medicines Discovery Catapult in April 2022 as a Business Development Manager, Jonathan has worked with the Biomarkers team, supporting SMEs, academics, and drug discovery researchers in identifying suitable biomarkers and clinical approaches for their drug or asset development.

Jonathan’s passion for innovation has led him to excel in commercial roles within the Life Sciences and Biotech sectors since his departure from the laboratory in 1998.

Dr Francesca Sadler

Francesca Sadler has 20 years’ commercial experience in the drug discovery and development field.

Francesca started her career as a Clinical Scientist working at the Public Health Laboratory Service (now part of Public Health England) researching meningococcal disease. Following a rewarding early career in the laboratory, Francesca moved into the commercial arena, most recently serving as Chief Commercial Officer and Board Member at Charnwood Discovery. This follows a distinguished career in key roles at leading drug discovery companies including Eurofins Discovery, Cyprotex, Aptuit and Charles River Discovery.

Francesca gained her PhD in microbiology and molecular biology from Manchester Metropolitan University and an MBA from Alliance Manchester Business School.

Francesca joined MDC in 2025 as Chief Commercial Officer, bringing extensive experience in sales and marketing within the discovery and development services field, and is responsible for delivering MDC’s commercial strategy across the business, supporting MDC’s mission in reshaping drug discovery for patient benefit.