Life sciences in Dundee is an exciting sector to work in. As one of the UK's leading biotechnology clusters, Dundee is home to world-class companies, universities, research institutions and scientists all within a three-mile radius.

Over 4,000 people now work in Dundee's life sciences sector - this accounts for 16% of the local economy and is forecast to grow at 10% per annum over the next three years.

Life science companies in Dundee offer a wide range of expertise including:

• Biotechnology.
• Pharmaceuticals.
• Medical devices and diagnostics.
• Agricultural biotechnology.
• Environmental biotechnology.

Both of Dundee's Universities undertake world-class research activities and collaborations, with departments at the University of Dundee's College of Life Sciences being rated either 5 or 5*, and the University of Abertay being ranked as the best in Scotland for environmental research.

BioDundee's Role in Life Sciences in Dundee

BioDundee partners can provide a wide range of business and research opportunities to support our growing biotechnology sector, from licensing and investment through to joint ventures and collaborations.

BioDundee was established in 1997 as a partnership to promote the growth of life sciences in the Dundee area, and brings together the public, private and academic sectors.

Our aim is to foster and create an environment within Dundee where continuous learning, improvement and innovation can take place and where experiences can be shared, and best practices embraced, by existing, new and incoming biotechnology companies in Dundee.

Some of the life sciences businesses that have invested in Scotland include:

• Cyclacel.
• CXR Biosciences.
• Pfizer (formerly Wyeth).

Initiatives in biotechnology in Dundee

BioDundee supports a range of activities, including the BioDundee International Conference which attracts approximately 300 delegates over three days to Dundee each year. Additionally the quarterly BioDundee Update publication is distributed to over 14,800 contacts worldwide.

Other biotechnology activities in Dundee include the organisation of training, networking and social events, and the production of a monthly e-newsletter. BioDundee brings together the local sector, as well as providing a focus for promoting the global centre of excellence that life sciences in Dundee can offer.