Mishcon de Reya recently advised the shareholders of Congenica, the Cambridge-based genomics software company, on its acquisition by SeqOne, a global leader in AI-driven genomic analysis. The transaction brings together two leaders in the field, creating the largest global 'software pure player' in genomics, serving over 160 laboratories across more than 30 countries.
Congenica, spun out of the Wellcome Sanger Institute in 2012, has played a key role in advancing clinical genomics since its inception, supporting flagship initiatives such as the NHS Genomics Laboratory Hubs, Genomics England, and the Hong Kong Genome Program. SeqOne's AI-powered platform complements Congenica's legacy, delivering advanced decision-support tools for molecular laboratories, and accelerating insights across oncology, rare and inherited diseases, and infectious diseases.
The Mishcon de Reya deal team was led by Charlie Fletcher (Partner) and Will Plumb (Associate), with support from Chris Keen (Partner), who has acted for Congenica since its incorporation almost 13 years ago. This longstanding relationship reflects our commitment to supporting innovative companies throughout their growth journeys, from inception to exit, and is a demonstration of the firm's longstanding presence at the heart of the thriving Cambridge life sciences and technology ecosystem.
Robert Denison, CEO, Congenica commented:
"Congenica's relationship with Chris and his colleagues goes back to the very foundation of the business back in 2012. His team have supported us across the entire organisation since then, from our funding rounds to advice on employment, property, IP, data, and our commercial engagements. We were delighted with Charlie and Will's support on the SeqOne transaction – they played a crucial role in helping us to navigate the deal, through which our innovative platform continues to benefit patients through accelerating the diagnosis of rare diseases and supporting the next generation of personalised cancer therapies."
Charlie Fletcher, Partner, Mishcon de Reya, said:
"It's always a pleasure working with businesses that are pushing boundaries and making a real impact. Congenica's story is one of innovation, collaboration, and sheer determination – and this next chapter with SeqOne is incredibly exciting. We're lucky at Mishcon to work alongside clients who inspire us every day, and I'm looking forward to seeing what the future holds for the team. Cambridge is a special place for us, and it's great to see local talent making waves on the global stage."
Chris Keen, Partner, Mishcon de Reya added:
“I've had the privilege of working with Congenica for nearly thirteen years, and it's been a real pleasure to see the team grow from a handful of passionate founders into a business making a genuine difference to patients lives and outcomes. This is a fantastic milestone for Congenica and its shareholders, and a testament to the ambition and resilience of the team. I'm proud to have played a small part in their journey. This deal is yet another example of our firm's ability to offer best in class support to the whole of Cambridge's tech and life sciences community from our own base in the city."
The Mishcon de Reya team has advised Congenica on a cross disciplinary basis since its foundation in 2012, including on all aspects of this transaction, ensuring a smooth process for Congenica and its stakeholders.