Nexxus Scotland

Life Science Present and Past

The Present

The life science community in Scotland is rapidly expanding and eager to reinforce its position as a world-class player on the gobal stage.

In a relatively small geographic area, the life science community within central Scotland is home to around 360 life science related companies; from major pharmaceuticals, to diagnostics, therapeutics, medical devices, contract researchers and manufacturers, jointly employing over 24,000 people.

There are nine world-class universities here, the oldest of which was established in 1451.   Along with a number of respected research institutes, these currently support several thousand life science researchers in a wide range of fields.

Excellent links with clinical researchers in NHS hospitals mean that a large number of science/collaborative networks exist across Scotland.

Expertise in therapeutic areas includes cardiovascular, inflammation and infection, cancer, neuroscience, obesity and diabetes and in platform technologies such as bio-imaging, proteomics, nanotechnology and drug delivery.   There is also considerable expertise in veterinary medicine.

Scotland has an extensive and established network of suppliers of both raw materials and a full range of professional services.   In addition, it has ready availability of development support specifically targeting the sector and benefits from easy access to, and a shared legislative framework with, the major markets of Europe.

A positive, enterprising environment, stable economy and skilled labour force available to support rapid growth ensure the area is a major force in Scotland's life science industry.

Life Science Facts and Figures

The Past

While it is true to say that the life science star is currently in the ascendant, Scotland has been at the forefront of ground-breaking life science inventions for many years now.   For details of some of these see Life Science Inventors.