VasoDynamics wins 2025 PING Innovation Award

09 Jun 2025

The PING Innovation Award, recognising individuals and organisations driving innovation in the Pharmaceuticals and Life Sciences sector, was awarded on Monday 12 May at the annual PING Conference, held this year at the stunning Old Palace, Hatfield House.

Organised by national law firm and Pharmaceuticals and Life Sciences sector specialists VWV, the award celebrates individuals and organisations whose innovative ideas, products, services or processes are making a positive impact on people’s lives.

2025 PING Innovation Award Winner: VasoDynamics Ltd

VasoDynamics, a Hertfordshire-based biopharmaceutical company, was named the 2025 winner for its development of ground-breaking, patient-friendly, cost-effective treatments that reduce the harmful side effects of cancer therapies, including oral mucositis, radiodermatitis, and chemotherapy-induced hair loss - improving both anticancer outcomes and patients' quality of life.

Early-stage clinical trials have shown promising results - with a recent Phase Ib trial demonstrating a 40–55% reduction in severe mouth ulceration in patients receiving radiotherapy for head and neck cancer, with no dose-limiting toxicity and no severe adverse effects. VasoDynamics have also had successful Phase IIa trials with Wisconsin University for preventing radiotherapy-induced severe skin burn in breast cancer patients.

Accepting the award was Founder and CEO, Dr Ninfeng Fiona Li. Paul Gershlick and Adrian Hawkins OBE, Chair of Hertfordshire Futures, presented the award. Paul paid tribute to the critical role of innovation in the sector and the longstanding support from Hertfordshire Futures, particularly highlighting the dedication of Paul Witcombe in championing life sciences in the region.

"We are deeply honoured to have received this recognition from our local community. We innovate not just as doctors, scientists or professionals, but as children, friends and family of those whose lives have been impacted by cancer. We innovate with the desire to support our patients and loved ones."

"We choose to focus on preventing the side effects of cancer treatments because we believe that dealing with difficult diseases such as cancer is no different from fighting on a battlefield – we must be equipped with protective shields as well as sharp swords."

"This award reflects the collective effort of our incredible team, supportive mentors and partners such as Pharmidex, and the extremely supportive local community. Without you all, we could not have come this far. Thank you also to the PING award committee for acknowledging our work, this recognition motivates us to keep moving forward towards the next breakthrough treatment."

Fiona Li, Founder and CEO, VasoDynamics

Highly commended entries

Two further submissions were recognised:

SOAR Beyond was praised for its i2i SMART platform, which supports wider patient access to medicines in the NHS; including its work collaborating with Novartis with the more widespread take-up of a key lipid management drug, Inclisiran.
Jonathan Bracey was commended for his tenacity in securing pioneering cancer treatment for his young son, bringing together international experts to trial Nano Knife Technology - now with potential to help other young patients.

Celebrating innovation for the greater good

Reflecting on this year’s award, Paul Gershlick commented:

“Innovation isn’t just about results - it’s also about people. From companies like VasoDynamics to individuals like Jonathan and Tiba, we’re seeing remarkable examples of dedication, resilience and creativity that truly change lives. The PING Innovation Award exists to shine a light on those who push boundaries, bring hope and change people's lives.”

Adrian Hawkins OBE, reflected on why the award is important:

“Innovation is the lifeblood of progress, especially in the life sciences sector. By highlighting the achievements of companies such as VasoDynamics, we not only honour their contributions but also inspire others to push the boundaries of what's possible. Congratulations to Fiona, Tiba and Jonathan for their remarkable achievements.”

As the 2025 PING Conference closed, the award ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the sector’s potential to deliver real-world change, and the vital importance of continuing to champion innovation for the greater good.