Ian Archer

Targeted towards supporting Scotland’s transition to net zero as well as biotech research initiatives, the £25m is based on the combined investment in the innovation centre’s skills programmes including industry contributions completed since IBioIC’s inception in 2014 and is 

Since its founding, more than 450 students have worked alongside over 80 biotechnology companies that have employed students’ skills to support pioneering research initiatives across a range of sectors.

Businesses that have sponsored student placements and projects include FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies, a contract development and manufacturing organization for biologics, vaccines, and advanced therapies; Ingenza, a Scottish biotechnology company with products ranging from consumer goods to sustainable fuels; and IndiNature, a sustainable construction materials manufacturer.

Ian Archer, technical director at IBioIC, said: “Skills are a crucial element of Scotland’s transition to net zero emissions in manufacturing. As manufacturing evolves to embrace more bio-based processes, we will need more people with technical skills to help grow that to scale.

“But importantly, those technical skills need to be combined with commercial and practical application. Already, we are hearing of early-stage companies struggling to take the next steps because of a limited talent pool.

“Our skills programmes are designed to help bridge some of the gaps between academic study and the jobs market, with hands-on industry experience a core element of each course.

“It is encouraging to see so many companies in our network supporting the development of the workforce, while at the same time utilising students’ skills to help develop ideas.”

Mr Archer added: “Our work with FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies is a great example of the type of collaboration that IBioIC strives to achieve.

“We are not only helping to nurture the next generation of talented scientists, but also contributing to the business’ need for research.

“Feedback tells us that it is beneficial for the company’s employees, who are able to broaden their professional networks, to act as mentors to the students and provide coaching.”

Andy Topping, chief scientific officer at FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies, added: “The skills training that IBioIC has provided to the PhD students placed at FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies in our centre of excellence in BioProcessing has perfectly complemented the experiences that they receive from academic research and on-the-job training.

“It is hugely valued both by the students and FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies, which is reflected in the close collaboration both entities enjoy.”