Member Article

Durham scientists 'boosting UK economy'

Scientists from Durham University have been highlighted as two of the UK’s leading bioscience researchers, contributing to the social and economic wellbeing of the whole country.

The work of Prof Toni Slabas and Dr Stefan Pryzyborski was highlighted at an event at HM Treasury, run by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC). The ‘Bioscience:Biomillions’ event aimed to show how the UK’s bioscience research base is delivering substantial economic and social impact.

Last year Dr Przyborski gained media coverage for a plastic scaffold he has developed to grow stem cells and other tissue in the laboratory in 3D conditions similar to the way they grow in the human body, and is now heading up University spin-out company Reinnervate.

Prof Slabas’s research is focused on providing alternatives for the lubricant and polymer industries, which could mean huge savings in carbon dioxide emissions compared to current oils. Prof Slabas and colleagues have also set up a spin-out company, Creative Gene Technology Ltd, with support from the BBSRC and other partners, which is developing new strategies for improving crop yield.

Dr Przyborski said: “Universities are often viewed as a seedbed of innovation. It is becoming increasingly important to consider the commercial impact of research for the development of new businesses and the economic growth of the country.”

Prof Slabas said: “The BBSRC programme is likely to be of major importance in contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions, particularly if certain technological advances that we are expecting take place.”

Steve Visscher, BBSRC Interim Chief Executive, said: “The UK’s world class bioscience research base underpins major economic and social sectors such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, food, healthcare and the environment. Our researchers are amongst the best in the world in terms of the quality of their science but they are also making huge contributions to quality of life for people through economic and social impact.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .