The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Life sciences could create 1,400 new jobs
Boosting research and development in the thriving life sciences industry would deliver up to 1,400 new jobs for Scotland, new figures reveal.
Hitting the government’s target of 2.4% of GDP being devoted to research and development by 2027 could generate an extra £57 million for the economy in Scotland.
According to research conducted by the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) making the target will generate more than 760 extra jobs in Scotland.
If investment on research and development went up to 3% then nearly 1,400 extra jobs would be created.
Alison Culpan, director for Scotland, ABPI, said: “This research underlines why increasing the amount that government and industry spends on innovation is so important.
“Industries like pharmaceuticals have the potential to generate the jobs of tomorrow, as well as securing the thousands of jobs they provide in Scotland today. But it’s not just about jobs and the economy.
“Our scientists work hand-in-hand with the NHS to provide medicines which save and improve millions of lives in this country, around the world and in communities in this region. By investing in the life sciences like pharmacy we can be part of the battle against illnesses that continue to blight so many lives – while helping to deliver jobs and prosperity in Scotland and across Britain.”
The Scotland figures are projected on the basis that R&D in the region’s life sciences sector will jump from £41m in 2015 to £76m in 2027.
Scotland is predicted to outdo Northern Ireland and Wales in terms of jobs and growth.