Life Sciences

Life science research provides us with a fundamental understanding of biological function, either in an organism's natural state or when challenged by external factors. This knowledge is often used to identify and develop better forms of human (or animal) healthcare - whether in the form of new drugs, medical devices or recommended lifestyle changes.

Life science research is not confined to the discovery of new medicines however. Other applications, of which there are many, include the reactions of organisms to climate change, their use in bioenergy production and their use in the detection of toxins, for example, in drinking water.

Scotland’s life science community is home to around 600 life science organisations – around 15% of the UK’s total. It is supported by 13 universities, eight research institutes and 43 colleges of further education.

Edinburgh has a long and proud history in life sciences – the Royal College of Surgeons is over 500 years old. From Simpson’s pioneering use of anaesthetic in the 1850s through to Dolly the Sheep - the world’s first cloned mammal - in 1997, Edinburgh’s continues to produce world-leading life science discoveries.

Edinburgh is now home to the newly opened BioQuarter – a $1billion investment in establishing a life sciences “Centre of Excellence”. Unique in the UK, BioQuarter offers an world-class location for companies to carry out all phases of biomedical research and development. It is also able to support foreign companies interested in having a presence in Scotland.

Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine

Stem cells represent one of the most advanced areas of life sciences. They have significant potential for therapeutic treatment, through regenerative medicine, of diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, organ failure and vision loss.

Drug Discovery and Development

A risk-intensive process which involves all stages of development from discovery, to clinical trials, to market approval.

Medical Devices and Diagnostics

Includes the design engineering and manufacturing of medical equipment - X-ray equipment, artificial limbs, bandages, operating theatre furniture and surgical instruments.

Bioinformatics

Bioinformatics is a developing discipline, incorporating computer science, biology and mathematics.

Pathway Medicine

Pathway Medicine is an exciting new approach to biomedical research, in the understanding of how genes and molecules interact at a physiological level.

Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing

Biomanufacturing is the broad term used to describe the cell-based techniques, processes and services required to produce biopharmaceutical products for the biotechnology industry.

Advanced Imaging

Imaging techniques enable doctors to make more accurate diagnosis and be more specific at the site of treatment.