Nexus is ‘a unique environment and the best place for us’
Dr Joseph Norton is Director of Clinical and Product at Atlas Endoscopy, a medtech creating an advanced robotic colonoscopy system. He is also hardware development lead for a project to design and develop a magnetic flexible endoscope at the University of Leeds. He gained his PhD in mechatronics, robotics and automation engineering from the University of Leeds in 2017. He is one of the key speakers at NEXUS Connect, taking place on 25 April as part of Leeds Digital Festival.
I am really grateful that I get to do something I love every day. To pick some highlights: working with an amazing team on a shared mission; getting to engage with inspiring people from many different walks of life, often; having the opportunity to build a business and product ‘from the ground up’; and co-creating something that could truly transform people’s lives.
It is an exciting time for us – we are at the start of building something with potential to disrupt a huge global market. In the next year our focus is on building value into the company by following the step-by-step new product introduction path – creating a strong product to solve a major health and economic problem. However, there are many challenges and hurdles ahead. Most pertinent for us at the moment is probably the barriers to attracting international talent into the UK.
It was an easy decision for us to put our company HQ in Nexus, Leeds – it is truly a unique environment and the best place for us at the moment. The biggest advantage for us is being part of a strong community: joining a world-class group of academics, healthcare professionals, business experts and innovators.
We are relatively new to the Nexus community and would like to make the most of the amazing ecosystem. As part of that goal, we hope to foster strong relationships with those around us and Nexus Connect is a great place to start!
We don’t have an official company motto yet; however, a common theme that I know resonates with all of us is to prioritise people and build trust. This is so crucial; we are a small team that is punching above its weight – we have to rely on the person next to us and believe that they are doing their part in our mission.
The lesson I am reminded of most often (based on a great quote by Howard Thurman) is probably to find and pursue a vocation that makes me come alive. It is a luxury for many, I know; but being able to work on something I am passionate about makes all the difference.
This biggest influence on my career is probably my late PhD supervisor, Anne Neville. She was an incredible example of someone who has excelled at their job, but always managed to stay level-headed and respectful of those around her.
With two young kids, not much relaxing happens in our household! When we do get the chance, relaxing at the moment looks like nature walks with the family and evenings getting stuck into a TV series.
Find out more about collaboration opportunities with Atlas Endoscopy.
