Borne Foundation

Our mission Funding and delivering research We bring scientists and clinicians together to advance our knowledge of pregnancy and childbirth, and translate research into better care for women and babies. Collaborating to speed up progress We foster clinical engagement and scientific collaboration by supporting an open source scientific database and forum to share analysis, findings and techniques. Attracting and developing talent We encourage talented clinicians and scientists through financial support to establish their careers and specialise in this area of scientific need. The largest barrier to the development of diagnostic treatment and prevention strategies for preterm birth and stillbirth is our inability to comprehend the biological processes of pregnancy and childbirth. World Health Organisation, 2010 Our research strategy What we research Borne focuses on pregnancy and the factors and conditions that may lead to preterm birth. We examine the biological processes of pregnancy and childbirth to understand changes in the maternal environment and their significance, and the mechanisms involved in normal and abnormal labour. More on what we research What we fund Borne funds translational research into the causes of preterm birth. This spans discovery science through to the clinical trial of new medicines. By supporting early stage research, we enable scientists to apply for funding for further and larger studies, maximising the contribution of Borne supporters. More on what we fund Our Founder: Professor Mark Johnson As a physician and obstetrician, Mark saw the devastating effects of prematurity first hand. He felt frustrated by his inability to do more for his patients. With his expertise in obstetrics and research, Mark was in a unique position to tackle the problem of premature birth. He set up Borne as a research appeal with Chelsea and Westminster Hospital and the charity became independent in 2016. As Borne’s Chief Scientific Officer, Mark is responsible for framing and delivering the strategy for research funded by Borne. A Scientific Advisory Board reviews all research proposals and oversees the measurement and reporting of Borne’s progress and impact.