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.

At Remora Bio, we have experienced firsthand the incredible potential of Scotland’s talent pool. Over the past 18 months, we have grown our team from two to seven, recruiting outstanding individuals across our commercial and R&D teams from that local pool. Our advanced biofilm prevention technology, inspired by the natural biology of the oceans, is on the cusp of significant growth. Yet, like many other life sciences companies, we face the daunting task of finding adequate, suitably located lab space to support our expansion.

There is a strong relationship between laboratories and the life sciences sector, which is steadily growing in the region. The lack of available space is not just a minor inconvenience; it is a critical bottleneck that could impede the progress of Scotland’s life sciences sector, with regional funding often used to refurbish existing spaces rather than creating bespoke facilities that can truly drive innovation.

The new Health Innovation Hub in Glasgow, set to open next autumn, is a shining example of what can be achieved when companies like Kadans Science Partner invest in purpose-built real estate. However, despite lab spaces being an investible proposition for public and private sectors, such initiatives are few and far between. National and regional funding alone is insufficient to address this issue. We need a concerted effort from both the public and private sectors to develop new lab spaces that can accommodate the growing number of life sciences companies. This is essential not only for fostering innovation but also for attracting and retaining top talent. The current transport network in Scotland also poses additional obstacles, making it even more crucial to have well-located, state-of-the-art facilities. Remora’s journey in Scotland has been marked by rapid growth and innovation. Our technology offers a sustainable solution to harmful biofilms. By preventing biofilm formation at its earliest stages, the Remora technology is a unique and powerful asset in helping address this global challenge across various sectors, from healthcare and textiles to paints and coatings.

We are proud to be part of Scotland’s vibrant life sciences community and are committed to contributing to its future success. However, to continue this trajectory, we need the infrastructure to support our ambitions. Next week’s Scotsman Life Sciences Conference in Edinburgh will be an excellent platform to discuss these challenges and explore potential solutions.

The lack of lab space in Scotland is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. By investing in bespoke lab facilities, we can ensure that we remain at the forefront of life sciences innovation, driving economic growth and improving global health outcomes.

Remora is ready to play its part, but we need the right environment to thrive. Addressing the lab space shortage is not just about supporting individual companies like ours, it is about safeguarding the future of Scotland’s life sciences sector. By creating an infrastructure that nurtures innovation and growth, we can maintain the country’s position as a leader in life sciences, attract global talent, and drive significant advancements in health and industry. The time to act is now, and with a unified effort, we can overcome this challenge and unlock the full potential of Scotland’s life sciences community.

Richard Hammond is CEO of Remora Bio