The UK biotechnology scene is buzzing with debate right now, with critical themes like green growth and sustainability really coming to the fore. The pandemic has thrust science and scientists into the spotlight like never before – and each of us has a responsibility to contribute to the sort of response that will help create a more resilient world.  

Business success from world-changing science.

Against this backdrop, it was great to be invited by connections at the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology to join the national discussion. The platform was a specially commissioned biotech supplement published by the New Statesman in partnership with the University of Manchester. I penned an article, ‘Bioinnovation: from research to commercialisation’, in which I explore ways to ensure long-term, sustainable success. 

The last decade has seen two big changes… much improved tools for manipulating biology and a much wider recognition of the externalities in developing and commercialising new technology. The challenge now is finding a route from idea to market through a complex landscape of needs and concerns. Here at Cambridge Consultants, the Bioinnovation team is working globally with clients to traverse this route – drawing on our understanding of the tools (biotechnology), the rules (governance) and interests (economic models) at play. 

You can read my article here and catch up with the full New Statesman supplement, ‘Biotechnology: a greener future’, here. I’d love to hear your views, so please drop me an email if you’d like to continue the discussion. 

Media downloads

Bioinnovation from research to commercialisation (2).pdf
Author
Richard Hammond
Technology Director and Head of Bioinnovation

As our Head of Bioinnovation, Richard leads our work in biotechnology. Since graduating from University of Cambridge in the mid-nineties, Richard has worked extensively in life sciences and healthcare developing innovative products for both research and clinical applications.