Nigel WHITTLER&D Specialist UKTI R&D Programme, UK Trade & Investment

The UK has an immense reputation for world class research and development, and punches well above its weight internationally, with over 5% of global R&D spend. The UK’s academic institutions are also among the best in the world, and have consistently been at the forefront of technological innovation. The UK has a well established pharmaceutical industry and a very successful mature biotechnology industry, with nearly half of all drugs in clinical trials in Europe.

The Life Sciences are seen as key technology areas in the UK, and have been boosted by significant financing in recent years, both from central government and the private sector. The UK government is keen to facilitate the continued growth of the sector through a variety of innovative Programmes. In addition, there is a significant drive to commercialise technology generated by the academic sector through start-ups, licensing and international collaborations.

Academic groups and commercial organisations in the UK are keen to collaborate with overseas partners in a wide range of technology areas. However many overseas companies are unaware of the opportunities available in the UK. In recent years the UK government has implemented many practical initiatives and dedicated resources, including the R&D Programme, to facilitate international collaborations.