New Government office established within DIUS to reinforce success of life science industry (3 April)

A new office for Life Sciences (OLS) has been created within Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills to address key issues affecting the pharmaceutical, medical biotech and devices sectors.  OLS is tasked, by the end of July 2009, with taking action to make a real difference to the operating environment for life sciences companies by working across Government to address a range of key issues. The virtual Office will co-ordinate national policy, undertaking work to build a sustainable and integrated life sciences industry in the future. It will look at what steps can be taken to improve access to finance for SMEs and to stimulate investment in the life sciences industry. (Download the full article)

Rise and shine, science (12 March, New Scientist)

Contribution by John Beddington, chief scientific adviser to UK prime minister, Gordon Brown.
The article compares US, UK and EU science advice in light of the new US regime.(Download the article)

News at the University of Cambridge (26 February)

A unique model of industrial-academic partnership in Cambridge is demonstrating how UK R&D can stay ahead of the game in a rapidly moving electronics market. Its formula is so successful that is now looking to increase its industrial partners. Read more.

The University of Cambridge has won funding for a new centre that will help generate the scientists needed for Britain's future. The new Doctoral Training Centre (DTC) in NanoScience will equip the next generation of researchers with the skills and experience to become nanoscience entrepreneurs by turning basic science research into future applications. Read more.

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