Exeter Science Park is home to some of the South West’s most forward-thinking organisations, and Cineon is a standout example of science-led innovation with global potential.
Founded in 2017, Cineon is a team of researchers, engineers, and developers using adaptive software and emotion-aware technology to improve how people learn, work, and receive care. With deep expertise in psychology, machine learning, and immersive technology, the company is redefining how human performance is measured and enhanced across complex, high-stakes industries.
Human-Centered Technology, Built for the Real World
At the heart of Cineon’s innovation is the Empathic Learning Engine (ELE) – a proprietary AI model that interprets human movement, gaze, and behaviour to deliver real-time insight into a user’s emotional and cognitive state. This allows software and simulations to adapt instantly to the needs of the individual, improving outcomes in learning, training, productivity, and wellbeing.
Cineon’s technology is already trusted by leading organisations in aviation, defence, nuclear, and healthcare. Its pre-built and customisable Extended Reality (XR) environments are being used to train pilots, prepare patients for MRI scans, support military readiness, and more.
Turning Data Into Measurable Impact
Cineon’s platform translates complex behavioural data into objective metrics that can be used to personalise experiences, reduce training time, and improve safety. Applications include:
- Adaptive training simulations that adjust in real time based on user performance and emotional state
- Eye-tracking technology to assess cognitive load and optimise skill acquisition
- API integrations that enable third-party systems to become emotion-aware and performance-driven
This innovation is underpinned by a strong research base. Recent publications explore how eye-tracking and XR environments support real-time adaptation in high-pressure environments, including:
These whitepapers demonstrate Cineon’s commitment to transparency, collaboration, and the advancement of human-centered design.
A Growth Story Rooted in Research
Cineon secured £900,000 in funding in 2024 through a mix of equity investment and innovation grants. Backers include Innovate UK, the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), Torbridge Capital, and the FSE Group. This investment is enabling Cineon to expand its team and scale the deployment of its technology across more sectors and international markets.
In recent years, Cineon has received multiple awards, including recognition as a global top-10 VR provider and SME of the Year in the UK nuclear sector. The company continues to invest in people and partnerships that support the responsible growth of human-centered AI.
Looking Ahead
Cineon’s vision is clear: to make adaptive, intelligent tools a standard part of every human interaction with digital systems. As the demands on people grow, so too does the need for software that understands and supports human performance.
The team welcomes collaboration with forward-thinking partners across training, healthcare, software development, and research. Cineon’s work represents not just the future of AI and XR, but the future of how humans thrive in a digital world.
To learn more about Cineon, explore their work at cineon.ai or connect with them on LinkedIn.
