Life Sciences

Aberdeen is a leading UK hub for life sciences, driving cutting-edge research, innovation, and breakthroughs in healthcare and biotechnology.

A hub for Life Sciences excellence

The North-east of Scotland is home to one of the UK’s largest concentrations of life scientists, with world-class research institutions and an industry committed to innovation, collaboration and commercialisation.

Innovation & impact

Aberdeen’s life sciences sector is tackling global health challenges including cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular, neurodegenerative and infectious diseases. Strong links between NHS Grampian, the University of Aberdeen, and Robert Gordon University drive cutting-edge research and commercialisation, positioning the region as a leader in life sciences growth.

ONE Biohub David Barbour External

Research & innovation partners

  • Grampian Research Office (GRO): Supports clinical research across NHS and universities, from student projects to large-scale trials.
  • NHS Grampian Innovation Hub: Matches ideas and solutions to major healthcare challenges, improving care and fostering collaboration.
  • James Hutton Institute: A global leader in land, crops, water and environmental science, developing sustainable solutions for climate and nature challenges.

ONE BioHub

Opened in 2023, the £40m ONE BioHub on Aberdeen’s Foresterhill Health Campus is a hub for start-ups, spinouts and scaling companies. Current tenants include Genomes.io, NovaBiotics and Scottish Brain Sciences. The BioHub provides the infrastructure, networks and peer community to turn research into innovation.

New MRI

Breakthrough discoveries

  • AI for Stroke Prediction – RGU-led research using artificial intelligence to assess patient risk.
  • Brain & Vitamin Balance – University of Aberdeen discovery with major implications for disease treatment.
  • Radiotherapy Predictors – New tools to avoid ineffective treatments, led by the S:CORT consortium.
  • Alzheimer’s Drugs – Promising new compounds developed at the University of Aberdeen.

The region’s goal: double the size of its high-value life sciences cluster, fuelling economic diversification and global health impact.