SkinBioTherapeutics plc announced that it has initiated a research and development project with the University of Manchester, named the Epiderm project. The Company also announces that Professor Cath O'Neill has confirmed that she intends to stand down as Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) and move to a Scientific Adviser role. The project will be run by Professor Andrew McBain and Professor Sheena Cruickshank.

Professor Andrew McBain co-created the SkinBiotix® technology and is an expert in the Microbiome. Professor Sheena is a Professor in Biomedical Sciences and Public Engagement at the University of Manchester and is a highly regarded figure in the field immunology. Epiderm will explore the use of a non-pathogenic ('friendly') skin bacterium with novel features that support barrier function in the skin.

These friendly bacterium encourage the skin to heal by promoting the migration of skin cells, which help close up a wound. By the end of the six month project, the aim will be to develop a technology derived from specific non-pathogenic skin bacterium that promotes wound healing. The total budget for the project is £100,000 which will be joint funded by SkinBioTherapeutics and future grant funding.