Each person has over 30 years experience in their field of medicine, chemistry or period products.
The Team
Founder
Background
Incorporated in 2002 by Dr Tony Bairstow, Aritex initially developed patient care data analysis. A nationwide data service using anonymised patient information allowed doctors to assess their success in delivering care. By comparing their patient demographics, health outcomes and patient comments with other anonymised service providers doctors could understand for the first time which areas of their work required improvement and the underlying reasons for their differences.
In 2016 Aritex changed its focus to biotechnology and research was started into developing improved designs in period products. Advances in biocompatibility of materials, combined with improved understanding of the physiological host responses, opened up new design possibilities for tampons.
In 2019 Aritex applied for UK patent protection which was granted in 2022.
In March 2021, Aritex Biotech launched a new design for a hygienic, self inserting tampon.
Advisory Board
Background
Professor Steven Abbott received his Oxford Ph.D. in chemistry from Harvard before a post-doc with Nobel Prize winner Jean-Marie Lehn. He spent 30 years in the industry, first with the large UK chemical company ICI then as Research Director of a high-tech coatings company near Oxford. Prof. Abbott is a visiting professor at the School of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Leeds and director of Steven Abbott TCNF Ltd.
He is advising Aritex Biotech on elastomeric polymers and adhesion principles.
Background
John Poccia III has over 30 patents in fields ranging from hygiene, medical devices, skincare, wound management, and baby/adult wipes. At Johnson & Johnson he worked with nonwovens to integrate superabsorbent monomers/polymers into a through air-bonded nonwoven with pulp fibers for use in a novel super thin diaper absorbent core. After working on baby diapers, he moved on to Personal Products Company in 1986, the feminine hygiene division of Johnson & Johnson. In 2000, he moved on to a newly created role Associate Director of External Alliances and Innovation and led a global team charged with developing a new way of bringing in innovation from outside of Johnson & Johnson.
He is advising Aritex Biotech on superabsorbent biomaterials, tampon prototype iteration and product development.
Team Members
Background
Shane Dhiman is an MSc Bioscience graduate from the University of Leeds, with a BSc in Biotechnology. He has expertise in biomaterial science and immunology research, combining academic rigour with a commitment to making a meaningful difference. Shane's multifaceted approach to academic excellence and community engagement makes him an invaluable asset to the Toruso project.
Background
Pamela Windle is a certified menstruation and menopause consultant for the workplace, with over 20 years of experience. She holds membership with the International Menopause Society and with the British Standards Institute as an advisor. Pamela also holds a BSc in Psychology and Sports Science and is advising Aritex Biotech on menstruators' experience and needs.
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