In a glamorous celebration of excellence and achievement, attended by over 500 people the 2024 winners of Scotland's Life Sciences Awards were unveiled.
Mark Cook, Chair of the Industrial Leadership Group opened the awards and welcomed Mr Neil Gray, Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care to speak to the remarkable success of the life sciences sector in Scotland. Mr Neil Gray stated;
“Scotland's life sciences sector has achieved remarkable success, surpassing ambitious goals and thriving amidst global challenges and I’d like to congratulate all who were recognised at Scotland’s Life Sciences Awards. Through collaboration and innovation, we've strengthened our economy and enhanced our global reputation. From attracting investment to expanding exports, our impact is significant and far-reaching.
“With £10.5 billion of contribution to the Scottish economy, the success of the life sciences sector is phenomenal. The Scottish Government has committed itself to life sciences, and to investing public money while leveraging private sector investment.
“Through these actions and by continuing to push boundaries, the life sciences sector is capable of shaping a brighter future for healthcare, both in Scotland and beyond. Life sciences is identified within our National Innovation Strategy as having the potential to be truly world-leading, and we are determined to harness the promise it holds through our strategic health and economy plans in order to deliver for the health and wellbeing of everyone in the nation.”
The awards also welcomed University of Glasgow’s Vice Principal for Economic Development, Innovation and Deputy Chief Operating Officer of Governance, Ms Uzma Khan. Ms Khan highlighted the importance of the life sciences sector to Scotland, with a significant focus on the city of Glasgow.
The Glasgow Riverside innovation district (GRID) outlines strategies to translate research excellence into tangible impact, engage with industry and the community, and create high-value jobs. She emphasised the importance of partnerships with government, industry, and other stakeholders to overcome challenges and capitalise on opportunities in the sector.
Uzma concluded her speech by calling for a collective action to push for transformation and change, urging stakeholders to join forces in a "coalition of the willing" to ensure the success of Glasgow's life sciences sector.
The 2024 award winners set a new standard for innovation, collaboration, and leadership in the dynamic field of life sciences. The awards ceremony, held at the Hilton, Glasgow brought together the best and brightest minds, honouring those whose contributions continue to develop and champion the industry.
Business Leadership Award – Sponsored by Valneva
Winner: Gary Beale, Emblation
Gary Beale, CEO and co-founder established health technology company Emblation in 2008. Based in Stirling, Scotland is central to the firm’s identity and was not only a way to leverage homegrown resources but also to promote Scottish business.
The business was founded with a vision to expand the use of microwave energy outside operating theatres and make Dermatology, Podiatry, and Oncology treatments more accessible through a unique and patented microwave induced immune modulation. To date over 1,300 devices in Dermatology and Podiatry clinics are used worldwide with c325,000 patients treated.
Innovation - Animal Health, Agritech, Aquaculture – Sponsored by Highlands and Islands Enterprise.
Winner: MI:RNA
MI:RNA is a high traction, high growth, multi-award winning company bringing innovation to the veterinary diagnostics market. MI:RNA’s integrated approach analyses the expression pattern of microRNAs with a bespoke Artificial Intelligence (AI) and predictive classification algorithms to detect diseases in their early stage, predict progression and monitor response to treatment. MI:RNA has first mover advantage in the microRNA space, being in veterinary or human field.
Innovation - Health Technology – Sponsored by Piramal Pharma Solutions
Winner: Dr. Luigi Manfredi, Softech Robotics
Softech Robotics integrates soft robotics with AI and data - it heralds a new era in medical diagnostics. The award was for it’s work pioneering an innovative, low-cost, soft endorobot for colonoscopies made from recyclable materials, with the aim to enhance screening and treatment for colorectal cancer (CRC).
Innovation - Pharma Services And Drug Discovery - Sponsored by PCI Pharma Services
Winner: Valneva Scotland
Located in Livingston, Valneva Scotland is a specialty vaccine company focused on the development, manufacturing, and commercialisation of vaccines for infectious diseases with significant unmet medical needs. Valneva Scotland have advanced a new vaccine candidate. Judges were impressed and feel this will have a huge impact for Scotland both globally and economically.
Innovative Collaboration Award – Sponsored by GenScript
Winner: Penrhos Bio, Pro3dure Medical GmbH and Unilever plc
Scottish-based Penrhos Bio Ltd has collaborated with Unilever plc and German partner Pro3dure Medical GmbH to commercialise a novel anti-microbial technology and launch two products during 2023. Penrhos Bio licensed the technology to Pro3dure for 3D printing applications at the end of 2022 and facilitated development between all three parties resulting in two product launches during 2023.
Outstanding Skills Development Award – Sponsored by SRG
Winner: Valneva Scotland
Valneva Scotland’s aim is to be the best life sciences company to work for in Scotland. To achieve this, they recognised a stronger, people-led culture was needed. To begin, in Q4 2022, they undertook a critical skills analysis of all roles and conducted a full site survey and staff consultation. This then informed the creation of their unique five-year People Plan, and their ‘Together We’ cultural transformation campaign, which we launched in February 2023.
Sustainability Award – Sponsored by Roslin CT
Winner: Carbogenics
Carbogenics is an award-winning sustainability focused spin-out from the University of Edinburgh. We focus on the research and identification of stranded waste and secondary biomass destined for a linear pathway and transforming these resources into a useful circular product that generates energy and sequesters carbon permanently. Carbogenics has developed two key products to enable this process, CreChar which is at TRL9 and has been developed over the past 6-7 years and FilaChar (TRL5) which has been in development over the past 3 years.
Rising Stars: Extraordinary Talent Award – Sponsored by Charles River
Winner: Professor Craig Ritchie
Edinburgh based Scottish Brain Sciences (SBS) started trading in 2023 as a result of Craig Ritchie seeing a global opportunity & need to provide better access to life changing Alzheimer’s medicines through clinical trials. In Scotland, very few patients are recruited into such trials and globally there is a need to prove efficacy of new molecules in Alzheimer’s quickly. Committed to this goal Craig, resigned from the University of Edinburgh and NHS Lothian to pursue this vision.
And in a momentous acknowledgment of a distinguished career, Alison Culpan BA LLB FRSE was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award – sponsored by AstraZeneca. Dame Anna Dominiczak presented Alison with the award stating.
“Alison’s career is a testament to her pioneering influence in the pharmaceutical sector, with a strong focus on promoting life sciences and a huge focus on promoting Scotland! With several leadership roles, where she has successfully integrated biomedical research, public health initiatives and industry influence and benefits. Alison broke new ground for gender equality within the pharma industry as the first female leader in Scotland (first for the ICI and then GSK ) and trailblazer UK- wide.”
“As a Director of ABPI Scotland since 2016, she has been promoting life sciences in Scotland as a catalyst for job creation and economic growth. She directed significant investment strategies aimed at advancing Scottish biomedical research, development of new medicines and new health technologies. Congratulations goes to Alison on her outstanding career.
Our judges also wanted to acknowledge the work of finalists Roslin CT and Continuous Manufacturing & Advanced Crystallisation (CMAC).
Roslin CT for their innovative work in the pharma services and drug discovery space; they are helping to put the UK and Scotland on the map for gene editing and manufacturing. The impact of this on patients and future therapeutic areas is huge.
And CMAC in for their work in the Sustainability space. Judges commended them on the continued implementation of initiatives that are resulting in reduced energy consumption and lab waste production.
Congratulations once again, to all the finalists and winners for their outstanding contributions to the life sciences landscape. The future is undoubtedly brighter because of their vision, passion, and commitment.
For more information, please contact:
events@speak.co.uk
Photographer: Kirsty Anderson, www.kirstyanderson.co.uk
We are delighted to be fundraising for Glasgow’s Hospice at Scotland’s Life Sciences Annual Awards and Dinner.
The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice exists to help patients achieve the best quality of life possible in whatever time remains for them. Where it may not be possible to add days to lives, they aim to add life to days. As a registered charity, the care is free of charge. The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice provided vital support for 1,200 new patients and their families every year, both in the hospice and within patients’ own homes.
Every year more than £3million needs to be raised in order to continue providing crucial, free care to patients. Attendees will be able to donate via Scotland’s Life Sciences Awards App and in person on the night.
Find out more about The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice and the valuable work they do here.
This years’ finalists represent the pinnacle of innovation, dedication, and impact in the dynamic field of life sciences. The prestigious awards ceremony, taking place on Thursday 14th March promises to be a momentous celebration, recognising the outstanding contributions made by individuals and organisations that have propelled Scotland's life sciences sector to new heights.
The finalists have been carefully selected, each highlighting exceptional achievements within the life sciences industry. This year's competition has been fierce, showcasing the breadth and depth of talent and innovation present in Scotland. The esteemed panel of judges, comprised of industry experts and leaders, faced the challenging task of selecting our 2024 finalists.
Business Leadership Award - sponsored by Valneva
- Antibody Analytics
- Gary Beale, Emblation
- Dr Stephen Myatt, Macomics
Innovative Collaboration – sponsored by GenScript
- Medicines Manufacturing Innovation Centre – Digital Membership, CPI
- Penrhos Bio Ltd
Rising Star: Extraordinary Talent – sponsored by Charles River
- Dr Stuart Hannah, MicroPlate Dx
- Professor Craig Ritchie, Scottish Brain Sciences
- Dr Helge Dorfmueller, University of Dundee and RHAPSEDA
Outstanding SkillsDevelopment – sponsored by SRG
- Piramal Pharma Solutions
- Terumo Aortic
- Valneva Scotland Ltd
Innovation – Pharm Services and Drug Discovery – sponsored by PCI
- Roslin CT
- Tay Therapeutics Ltd
- Valneva Scotland Ltd
Innovation – Health Technology – sponsored by Piramal Pharma Solutions
- Fitabeo Therapeutics
- IbisVision
- Dr Luigi Manfredi, Softech Robotics
Innovation – Animal Health, Agritech and Aquaculture – sponsored by Highlands and Islands Enterprise
- Aquanzo Limited
- MI:RNA
- Tritonia Scientific Ltd
Sustainability – sponsored by Roslin CT
- Booth Welsh
- Carbogenics
- CMAC, University of Strathclyde
The LifetimeAchievement Award – sponsored by AstraZeneca
The 2024 Lifetime Achievement recipient will be announced at the awards
Congratulations to all our 2024 finalists!
The profound impact of Life Sciences on society, encompassing the realms of understanding life, advancing human health, and addressing environmental challenges, underscores its pivotal role in shaping a better future for all.
The University's legacy in Life Sciences traces back to the groundbreaking discoveries of Joseph Lister, Regius Professor of Surgery, who introduced antiseptics in 1860. Over the years, our Life Sciences community has evolved, witnessing milestones such as Professor Ian Donald's development of ultrasound in 1958 and the University's pivotal role in demonstrating the benefits of statins for heart disease in 1994, positively influencing millions globally.
The unforeseen challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic prompted the University to step into action. Collaborating with partners, the institution played a crucial role in establishing the Lighthouse Laboratory, contributing to vaccine development, and enhancing our understanding of the virus. Looking to the future, the University is poised to build upon this rich legacy through ambitious strategies and growth plans, aiming to address the major life science challenges of our times.
Recognising that research and discoveries are just the starting point, the University is actively translating ideas into action. Through innovative industrial partnerships, policy engagements with governments, and its role as a regional civic anchor, the institution is committed to making a tangible difference. At the heart of these initiatives is the Living Laboratory, a cornerstone program in the Glasgow Riverside Innovation District (GRID). This innovative ecosystem fosters collaboration among healthcare innovation companies, academic experts, and healthcare professionals, driving the development of groundbreaking products and companies. The Living Laboratory, supported by the University's knowledge base and infrastructure, not only generates economic benefits but also contributes to inclusive growth by improving health and wellbeing in the Glasgow city region.
The symbiotic relationship between the College of Medical, Veterinary, and Life Sciences and the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) ensures that patients are integral to all clinical translation research. This approach facilitates the delivery of healthcare innovations that can seamlessly integrate into clinical settings, paving the way for personalised care plans, improved patient care, and substantial cost savings for the NHS.
The convergence of world-leading basic mechanistic research scientists, clinical academics, healthcare professionals, and patients creates a unique integration for dissecting disease mechanisms, particularly in chronic diseases. Looking ahead, the University is committed to strengthening the links between discovery researchers and translational infrastructures, positioning Glasgow at the forefront of life science innovation. This strategic vision aims to enhance the vibrant research and development ecosystem, support local and global innovators, and further solidify Glasgow's standing as a hub of life science excellence.
We are excited to share that the deadline for Scotland’s Life Sciences Awards has been extended until the evening of Sunday 10th December. Enter now to be part of the celebration of Scotland’s vibrant life sciences industry. Don’t leave it until the last minute!
Entrants are encouraged to download the entry form and review all the available categories. As a guide, the entry form has been split into four sections.
Judge Alix Mackay shared some tips when entering the awards.
1. Pick the categories that you specifically excelled at in the year 2022-23 from our 2024 category list
Business Leadership
Rising Stars: Extraordinary Talent
Outstanding Skills Development
Sustainability *NEW*
Innovation – Pharma services and Drug Discovery
Innovation – Health Technology
Innovation – Animal Health, Agritech and Aquaculture
Innovative Collaboration
2. Provide content (impact, data, achievements) that aligns to the criteria. This is what we use to separate the entries.
3. Make sure you tell us about the criteria in which you excel with the evidence and impact to back this up.
We look forward to receiving your entries and celebrating the industry on Thursday 14th March at the Hilton Glasgow – save the date! Connect with us on LinkedIn to stay up to date with the latest announcements.
To help entrants write an award winning and well-structured submission, we have split the entry form into four sections: Background, Development, Innovation and Executions & Results. Entrants are encouraged to download the entry form and review all the available categories.
With the support of the ILG these Awards will recognise and celebrate excellence across eight categories.
Business Leadership
Rising Stars: Extraordinary Talent
Outstanding Skills Development
Sustainability *NEW*
Innovation – Pharma services and Drug Discovery
Innovation – Health Technology
Innovation – Animal Health, Agritech and Aquaculture
Innovative Collaboration
Entries are open now until December 6th, enter now to be part of the celebration of Scotland’s vibrant life sciences industry.
“Scotland’s Life Sciences Awards continue to highlight and celebrate the significant contribution of life sciences to society and economic growth, as well as providing a platform for individuals, teams and organisations to share their work and be recognised”. Mark Cook, Chair at Life Sciences Scotland ILG
We look forward to receiving your entries and celebrating the industry on Thursday 14th March at the Hilton Glasgow – save the date! Connect with us on LinkedIn to stay up to date with the latest announcements.
If you have any questions or would like to enquire about sponsoring, please contact events@speak.co.uk
Scotland's Life Sciences Awards have a new LinkedIn page - and you are invited to connect with us!
Stay up to date on the latest announcements and Life Sciences Awards news by following this link, and connecting with us on LinkedIn.
We are delighted to announce that Scotland's Life Sciences Awards are now open for entries. The Awards exist to celebrate the achievements of the industry and facilitate development and growth. Mark Cook, Chair at Life Sciences Scotland ILG states.
“Scotland’s Life Sciences Awards continue to highlight and celebrate the significant contribution of life sciences to society and economic growth, as well as providing a platform for individuals, teams and organisations to share their work and be recognised”.
With the support of the ILG these Awards will recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements of individuals and teams in the Scottish Life Sciences industry in the following categories.
Entries are open NOW until Wednesday 6th December.
We look forward to receiving your entries and celebrating the industry on Thursday 14th March at the Hilton Glasgow – save the date!
If you have any questions or would like to enquire about sponsoring. Please contact events@speak.co.uk
