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Event - Date, Time & Location

  • Pre-Registration is optional if you are an employee of a company on the Porton Down Science Campus
  • Visitor registration is currently open to:
✓ Personnel based on the Porton Down Science Campus
✓ Ministry of Defence personnel
✓ Members of the UK Armed Forces

Due to limited parking capacity, registration for external commercial visitors has been paused.
  • Exhibition Marquee, Bybrook Road, Porton Science Park
  • Wednesday, 30th September 2026
  • 10:00 AM – 15:00 PM

Main Supporter:

Dstl

Supported by:

Porton Science Park
UKHSA

Event Details

Following the success of four previous Searchlight SME Showcase Exhibitions, we are excited to announce the return of this highly anticipated event for a fourth year. Taking place on Wednesday, 30th September 2026, the exhibition will once again be hosted in the purpose-built marquee at the Porton Science Park, Bybrook Road, and is set to be the biggest and most dynamic yet.

This event has become a highlight of the Porton Down Science Campus calendar, attracting around 70 exhibitors and hundreds of attendees from across the Campus, including scientists, technologists, engineers, project managers, department leaders, and other staff involved in the application, assessment, and procurement of cutting-edge science and technology solutions.

What to Expect


The Searchlight SME Showcase is your opportunity to explore innovative solutions and network with a diverse range of suppliers, from S&T industries and non-traditional Defence providers to Government partners. The event is designed to promote technology transfer, drive collaboration, and introduce new suppliers who can contribute to the ambitious science and technology goals of all Campus organisations.

Covering the needs of Defence, Life Sciences and Pharmaceuticals, many exhibitors will showcase products and services in overlapping fields of interest, including:

Laboratory Equipment and Consumables:
  • General laboratory supplies, glassware, and consumables
  • Diagnostic kits, reagents, and biological sample containers
  • Autoclaves, safety cabinets, cryogenic storage, and sterilisation systems
  • Solutions for cold chain management, contamination control, and sample integrity
Scientific Instruments and Analytical Tools:
  • Chromatography, spectroscopy, and electrophoresis systems
  • Environmental and air quality monitoring instruments
  • Chemical, biological, and materials analysis tools
  • High-precision measurement and calibration equipment
Medical and Biotech Solutions:
  • Biopharmaceutical production and vaccine development tools
  • Cell culture systems, DNA/RNA processing technologies, and microbiology platforms
  • Custom reagents, biosensors, and sample tracking systems
  • Lab automation and diagnostic innovation to support infectious disease response
Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing:
  • Composite materials, advanced fasteners, and modular structures
  • Thermal management solutions and structural components for specialist facilities
  • Engineering support for cleanrooms, containment labs, and technical infrastructure
  • Bespoke manufacturing and precision fabrication for scientific applications
Test, Measurement, and Simulation Solutions:
  • RF and microwave testing, signal processing, and data analysis tools
  • 3D scanning, mechanical testing, and motion control systems
  • Vibration analysis, environmental testing, and simulation software
  • Tools for forensic analysis, sensor calibration, and systems evaluation
Data and Software Solutions:
  • Laboratory information management systems (LIMS)
  • Simulation platforms and data analytics for scientific and defence research
  • IoT devices, digital automation, and system integration tools
  • Cybersecure data management platforms for regulated environments
Sensors and Detection Equipment:
  • Precision sensors for temperature, pressure, and flow monitoring
  • Chemical and biological detection systems for threat identification
  • Gas analysers, air sampling units, and monitoring equipment for secure labs
  • Integration-ready sensor solutions for laboratory and field deployment
Safety and Protective Solutions:
  • CBRN protective gear including respirators and suits
  • Gas detection, decontamination units, and personal safety systems
  • PPE and health protection equipment for laboratory and field operations
  • Emergency response technologies and incident containment support
Photonics and Optics:
  • High-speed imaging and light measurement equipment
  • Laser systems, optical components, and beam control technologies
  • Infrared and UV systems for analysis, inspection, and targeting applications
Energy and Environmental Solutions:
  • Environmental monitoring and air quality control systems
  • Sustainable energy systems and energy-efficient technologies for labs
  • Hazardous waste containment, filtration, and clean energy infrastructure
Security and Defence:
  • Secure communications platforms and encryption tools
  • Radar systems, counter-drone technologies, and surveillance equipment
  • Sensor fusion, tactical electronics, and defence innovation solutions
  • Support for research in threat detection, situational awareness, and resilience
Supply Chain and Contract Services:
  • Specialist logistics, packaging, and cold chain transport solutions
  • Technical consulting, R&D support, and outsourced scientific services
  • Maintenance, calibration, and validation of lab and field equipment
  • Staff training and capability development for regulated or high-security environments

These technologies and solutions may help address current and future challenges, such as reducing costs, enhancing safety, improving efficiency, accelerating project timelines, or promoting sustainability.

Why Attend?


Whether you’re seeking solutions to existing challenges, exploring opportunities for cross-sector collaboration, or simply curious about emerging innovations, this event is a must-attend for everyone on the Campus. It provides an invaluable opportunity to:

  • Engage directly with suppliers who specialise in high-security, high-reliability, and precision-focused products.
  • Discover new tools and technologies relevant to your work or future projects.
  • Connect with peers from other Campus organisations and share insights.

A detailed list of the 2026 exhibitors will be provided in due course.

Visitor Pre-Registration

In visiting this event, you have two options – to pre-book your attendance and jump the entrance queues by securing your ‘fast track ticket’ or registering on arrival at the marquee.

If you are visiting from the Ministry of Defence or UK Armed Forces, or are not based on the Porton Down Science Campus, you MUST pre-register before attending. Please note that visitor registration for external commercial organisations is currently paused due to limited parking capacity.

However, if you are based in one of the companies on the Porton Down Science Campus and would like to receive your ‘fast track’ ticket, please complete the registration form below:

2026 'Searchlight' SME Showcase

  • Which best describes you? *
    Which best describes you?

  • Visitor registration for external commercial organisations has now been paused due to limited parking capacity.

    Registration remains open for personnel based on the Porton Down Science Campus and members of the Ministry of Defence and UK Armed Forces.

    If you believe you should still be eligible to attend, please contact us.

  • I understand and confirm that I will bring appropriate identification (e.g. MOD ID, Service ID, driving licence or passport) to verify my identity if requested. *
    I understand and confirm that I will bring appropriate identification (e.g. MOD ID, Service ID, driving licence or passport) to verify my identity if requested.
  • Would you be interested in exhibiting at this event? *
    Would you be interested in exhibiting at this event?

  • Please note that this is just an expression of interest and you have not reserved any exhibition space etc. at this stage.

  • How did you hear about this event? *
    How did you hear about this event?
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    Do you consent to Nu-Tech sending you direct marketing material about future events and exhibitions?

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