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On 5 December, the UK Government revealed its new £2bn 'vision' to be rolled out over the next decade, aimed at harnessing the enormous potential of engineering biology to revolutionise how the UK grows food, develops medicines and produces fuel, with the ultimate aim of positioning the UK as a global leader in science and technology.
It represents an opportunity for business in the Life Sciences sector, and we consider some of its key themes in this article.
The funding reflects a theme of investment in life sciences – see our report on the UK Centre of Excellent for Medicine Manufacturing - which reflects recognition of the role the sector can play in fostering economic growth in the UK and creating higher-paying jobs and opportunities across various industries throughout the country.
As part of the strategy, an Engineering Biology Steering Group will also be launched, bringing policymakers together with the business leaders and innovators behind transformational engineering biology breakthroughs being made in the UK to steer the government's approach to this technology.
Science Secretary Michelle Donelan said:
"Engineering biology has the potential to redefine our world in ways that were previously unimaginable. Today's £2 billion commitment not only reflects our determination to push the boundaries of what UK science can achieve, from transforming medicine to tackling climate change but also champions the five critical technologies that will define our future".
Engineering biology applies engineering principles to biology in order to build and manufacture new biological systems and products.
By utilising this cutting-edge practice, breakthroughs in bioengineering stand to benefit organisations in a wide variety of sectors, including healthcare, food and agriculture, consumer products, sustainability, and energy and materials production.
For example, bioengineering techniques and materials were utilised to deliver life-saving mRNA vaccines such as the COVID-19 vaccine.
The vision sets out the following six priorities for delivering the benefits of this technology:
If you have any questions or would like more information regarding this article and how this may affect your business, please contact our Life Science Solicitors, who would be happy to assist.