Biomedical and healthcare
The South West is a major centre of biomedical research with internationally recognised expertise, employing around 15,000 people in 500 companies.
Employment in the sector is growing faster than the national average with a 48% increase between 1998 and 2004.
Growing clusters of medical companies are linked to university specialisation in Bristol and Plymouth. The region is home to DSTL - Europes largest research agency and the Health Protection Agency.
Bio medical companies are attracted to the region by:
- Strong networking and collaboration with academic institutions
- Facilities at Royal Cornwall & Devon NHS Trust, Knowledge Spa in Cornwall, Tamar Science Park in Plymouth, Winfrith Science Park in Dorset and Tetricus Ltd in Wiltshire
Research* indicates that the bio medical and healthcare sectors are driven by:
- Public acceptability and perception of risk – especially new healthcare interventions and genetic modification
- Pressures to reduce time-to-market, cost and risks
- Regulation and costs of new product introduction
- Growing investor confidence promises some good prospects for bio technical start up
- Renewed interest in protection against biological diseases
* The State of the Key Sectors Research, Arthur D Little, SW Regional Development Agency 2004
BioApproaches SW supports business and professional development for the biotechnology sector.
For more information about Biomedical and Healthcare and to search our Employer Directory please visit our new Graduate Toolkit.
Biomedical and healthcare news
- World class Bristol science park takes another step
- Plans unveiled for £50 million centre of clinical excellence in Plymouth
