BioCity CEO to deliver key address at BioScotland on 30th April 

Scottish ambitions to double the life sciences sector by 2020 could be realised if the ‘perfect storm’ of prevailing conditions are grasped and built on, according to CEO of the BioCity Group Dr Glenn Crocker.

Commenting ahead of his address to the gathering of sector experts at BioScotland on 30 April, Dr Crocker identifies several factors working together to have a profound impact on the long term future of the life sciences sector in Scotland.

A combination of new investment funding, the introduction of collaborative research initiatives such as the Technology Innovation Centres and  the  IMI European Lead Factory compound drug discovery programme based at BioCity Scotland, coupled with new opportunities arising from the restructuring of global pharmaceutical companies heralds a new era in the development of great scientific ideas, he says.

Dr Crocker will address the gathering of Scottish healthcare, biotechnology and pharmaceutical experts at the University of Strathclyde’s annual BioScotland conference and exhibition.  He will expand on the findings of his report into UK life science start-ups published last December¹ and will reflect on the latest Scottish initiatives to boost life science innovation, start-ups and business growth.  With active Scottish Government support for the sector and university spin-out activity ahead of the rest of the UK, the country has the potential to attract ambitious new ventures and significant interest from investors.

“I am encouraged by what I see coming together to benefit the Scottish life sciences sector. Not only is there high-level government commitment to providing support and funding for innovative new companies, but also the practical infrastructure in bio-science business incubation, not only at BioCity Scotland but in Edinburgh, Glasgow and within the leading research institutions. If we combine this with access to specific UK funding streams as well as a strong private Scottish Angels network, new companies with growth potential should thrive here.

“We may still have to work to attract bigger private investors and VC interest so firms can rapidly scale-up, but I believe they will soon look beyond London and the South East for exciting commercial returns.”

BioScotland will take place in The Barony Hall at the University of Strathclyde on Tuesday 30 April. BioCity Scotland is supporting the event and seeking to talk to companies looking for laboratory, office space and routes to finance, as well as shared facilities and access to scientific equipment.

more about BioScotland conference and exhibition

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