In the rapidly evolving biotechnology sector, scaling from start-up to global contender presents a myriad of challenges. These challenges are not insurmountable but rather opportunities to propel growth and establish a presence on the world stage.

As I prepare to take part in a panel discussion at this week’s IBioIC conference in Glasgow, I wanted to share my insights on the critical importance of seizing opportunities for international visibility, the strength of Scottish talent, and the lessons learned from recent endeavours.

February has shone a bright spotlight on home ownership. We saw the Bank of England cut interest rates to 4.5%, boosting confidence among homeowners and first-time buyers alike. Meanwhile, the national campaign for New Homes Week 2025, highlighted the advantages of buying a new-build home and the vital role housebuilding plays in strengthening communities.

At Muir Homes, we’re starting to see that confidence returning to the market. Lower mortgage rates and more stabilised inflation levels have made home ownership more accessible, driving strong demand for our developments.

A modern Formula 1 car consists of approximately 15,000 individual parts each meticulously designed and engineered for performance, safety, and aerodynamics. Every part plays a crucial role in optimising the cars performance in a highly competitive racing environment, so if one part is broken then the whole car and performance suffers.

A Formula 1 car isn’t just a race machine - it’s a symbol of innovation, precision, teamwork, and adaptability, all elements equally as crucial in the business world to achieve success. Every year without fail, a Formula 1 team will evolve its car design and operations for the following year in a relentless pursuit of perfection.

Science has always been a catalyst for progress, shaping the way we understand and navigate the world. Yet, for centuries, the contributions of women in science have been overlooked, and despite many efforts, a yawning gender gap at a senior level in science persists.  

Today we celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. This acknowledges the impact of female scientists.  But why do we need days like this and initiatives like Senior Women in Science (SWIS), established by Perceptive Communicators, which aims to help move the needle on the number of women in senior positions? 

In the dynamic, competitive industry of new home building, staying at the forefront of innovation is essential. For family-run businesses like Campion Homes, a brand refresh represents more than a visual update. It is a strategic initiative to ensure we remain a leading force in the industry while reaffirming our proud history.

As Sales & Marketing Manager at Campion Homes I’m keen to share why our brand refresh is important as we move into 2025 and plan for our future. 

One of the best things about working for, and leading, a charity, is the people you meet and the creative energy that bursts from them. Several years ago Simon Community Scotland merged with Streetwork in Edinburgh and I was introduced to a lovely supporter called Rachel Cowan.

Rachel told us the story of Streetreads, how she met someone who was begging on the streets of Edinburgh and offered to buy them a sandwich. ‘Could you buy me a book?’ was the response, one that surprised and delighted Rachel, herself a very keen reader.

For many, January 1st is considered a day of new beginnings, making resolutions and setting fresh intentions.

But many of us find it really difficult. We are still in the middle of winter, and an especially cold one at that. We’ve probably spent the last month or so busily planning, preparing and celebrating Christmas and New Year and both the bank balance and the social battery might be running a bit low. We’re trying to motivate ourselves to get back into the routine of work, but it’s especially difficult when it’s still dark outside, and the bed is toasty warm. Here’s a radical thought - maybe January isn’t the opportune time to get the results we want?

It may be an unpopular opinion, but I support and encourage businesses in 2025 to bring more days working back in the office.

Inspiring Workplaces was founded as a fully remote organisation and our purpose is to help change the world through the world of work. One of the main ways we are able to do this is to recognise PeopleFirst organisations all over the world through our annual awards programme. 

With an ongoing commitment to protect people and the planet, Scotland has set a target of net zero emissions by 2045. As such, it should be no surprise that several of our clients have looked to surpass the required Building Regulations standards and provide more sustainable, low energy buildings throughout 2024.

The excitement amongst homebuilders and social housing providers could be heard across Scotland last week when it became clear that housing funding would be restored in Shona Robinson’s budget.

Last year, whilst still under Humza Yousaf’s premiership, the budget was slashed by around £200m, forcing social housing providers and developers to rethink their home building plans for the coming year.

CBO of one of Europe's largest science and technology parks calls for richer female specific data sets to enable more informed and personalised healthcare.

It has now been over six months since the Scottish Parliament declared a housing emergency. Here in the Highlands, the council declared a ‘housing challenge’ and it is a priority for Albyn Housing Society, and other social and private developers in the area, to deliver much needed homes for local people. There is too much at stake if we do not.

Having spent my whole career in Edinburgh, I have witnessed the remarkable resilience and growth of its hospitality sector. Our city’s hotel industry has bounced back from the challenges posed by the pandemic and positioned itself as a leader in the UK. This success story is also a testament to the critical role that civil and structural engineering plays in this ongoing narrative.

Scotland, particularly the central belt, is a powerhouse of life sciences talent. This region

boasts a rich synergy between companies, universities, colleges and networks, fostering a

collaborative environment that drives innovation. However, a significant challenge threatens

to stifle this burgeoning sector, the acute shortage of suitable lab space.

In the ever-evolving landscape of housebuilding, the need for innovative practices and techniques has never been more critical. As we strive to meet ambitious housing targets and address the pressing demand for new homes, it is essential for companies to invest in cutting-edge solutions that enhance efficiency and futureproof the industry.

In September the UK’s last coal-fired power station near Nottingham was closed after over 140 years, marking a significant moment in our energy history. Coal, which once powered our factories, homes and transport, has been the bedrock of our industrial growth and modern economy.

As Scotland faces increasing economic challenges, the need for innovation and collaboration in public sector infrastructure has never been greater. The Scottish Government's recent Programme for Government has highlighted its commitment to addressing climate change, with a strong focus on decarbonisation sector-wide. At hub South West Scotland, we are proud to play a crucial role in this transformative agenda, working alongside our public sector shareholders to deliver sustainable infrastructure that meets the needs of communities today and for future generations.

There is an unmet need for better precision medicine globally. Patients won’t always respond to mass prescribed treatments, resulting in unnecessary side-effects and wasted prescriptions, but precision medicine will help optimise patient treatment pathways - and Glasgow can be home to life-changing innovations. 

One of the best pieces of advice I’ve had is to listen first, then talk.  Actually it was a little more brutal than that, suggesting that as I have two ears and one mouth, it would be sensible to use them in that proportion.  A little stinging as a chatty teenager, but  great life long advice in many situations, especially in the business world.  

A timely conversation with my Washington DC-based pal ex-FBI and Microsoft global cyber expert and renowned speaker Edward P. Gibson prompted me to make a direct link between the highly unpredictable so-called hyperconnectivity promises generated by artificial intelligence generated systems and seasonal affective disorder.