The Liverpool-founded spin-out is bringing AI-powered image analysis into NHS clinical workflows to tackle a growing shortage of specialist pathologists.
Spotlight Pathology, a UK healthtech company, has raised £1.4 million in seed investment to support its development of AI software that analyses digital pathology images to support clinicians in identifying blood cancers faster and consistently.
Blood cancers are among the hardest to diagnose, often requiring multiple reviews by specialist pathologists. Delays can have serious consequences for patients, yet pathology departments across the UK are facing growing demand and a shortage of trained staff.
Designed to slot into existing clinical workflows, Spotlight’s technology helps pathologists prioritise cases and reach decisions sooner – enabling patients to begin treatment earlier.
Spotlight Pathology was founded by Dr Richard Byers, a Consultant Haematopathologist, and Dr Martin Fergie, an AI specialist with more than 15 years’ experience developing advanced algorithms for healthcare applications. The investment will support the company as it gains additional regulatory approvals and progresses through the first clinical in-use trials.
According to Sam Perona, Chief Executive Officer of Spotlight Pathology, blood cancers can be extremely challenging to diagnose, and diagnostic delays can have devastating consequences for patients:
“Our mission is to support pathologists with tools that fit seamlessly into existing workflows, helping them reach accurate diagnoses faster and with greater confidence.
This investment gives us the momentum to move from development into real-world clinical settings. We’re excited to be scaling the business from Daresbury, working alongside partners across the North West and beyond, and to be strengthening our board with experienced leadership as we enter this next phase.”
Sakura Holloway, Investment Director at the UK Innovation and Science Seed Fund, managed by Future Planet Capital, added:
“Spotlight Pathology is a strong example of how UK university research can be translated into technologies that will transform patient outcomes. The team are addressing a critical challenge in blood cancer diagnosis, and with the right leadership and support in place, the company is well positioned to bring this technology into clinical settings.
This investment reflects our conviction in both the team and the technology, and our commitment to backing spin-outs that apply advanced science to pressing healthcare challenges, improving productivity in the health system and delivering meaningful global patient impact.”
Lead image: Richard Byers, Sam Perona, and Martin Fergie. Photo: uncredited.