About us

Image shows Allotype co-funders Jim Robinson (standing left) and Lubna Shafi (standing right). Both are smiling to camera.

Allotype BioDiscovery is a specialist provider of Olink® proteomics services, supporting researchers in both academia and the biopharma industry with high-quality, reliable data to drive biomarker discovery and drug development.

Our journey began in 2012 as the Leeds Immunogenomics Facility (now knows as Leeds Translational and Biomarker Facility), created to provide a sustainable funding model for skilled technical staff. As demand grew, so did our capabilities – expanding beyond our original scope to offer a broader range of services in proteomics and translational medicine. 

With support from the University of Leeds Research & Innovation Service (RIS), we transitioned into Allotype BioDiscovery to better serve the growing needs of the biopharma sector. This funding allowed us to open a dedicated laboratory within Nexus, the University’s innovation hub that connects research with industry, giving us a modern, dedicated space to deliver our services more efficiently. 

We are proud to be the first and most experienced UK facility certified to run Olink®  panels, and we maintain robust quality management to ensure every project meets the highest scientific standards. 

At Allotype BioDiscovery, we combine technical expertise with a collaborative mindset – working closely with our clients to turn complex data into meaningful, actionable insights. 

Meet the Allotype BioDiscovery Team

James Robinson
Co-Founder
Jim has a PhD in immunogenetics and is a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Leeds. With over 25 years experience in academic and commercial life science research and over 2000 citations, he is focussed on delivering translational impact through high quality science. 
Lubna Shafi
Co-Founder
Lubna is a highly experienced research technologist with over 20 years practical experience in the academic environment. As the first UK Olink accredited service provider, Lubna has a wealth of experience working with a range of panels and matrices.