Oxfordshire’s ‘world-class’ life sciences sector celebrated

The event was held in Westminster earlier this month and brought together businesses, national policymakers, and sector leaders to highlight the region’s impact on health innovation and economic growth.

Hosted by Baroness Blackwood of North Oxford, it was held alongside Oxfordshire County Council and Advanced Oxford to promote discussion around sector challenges and opportunities.

Neil Fawcett, deputy leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “Oxfordshire is one of the UK’s leading centres for life sciences innovation, with world-class research being translated into real improvements in people’s lives.

“This showcase highlighted both the scale of opportunity in our county and the importance of continuing to invest in skills, infrastructure and partnerships to support future growth.”

Speakers from Immunocore, Perspectum, and Pictura Bio shared insights into their work and the wider potential of Oxfordshire’s life sciences ecosystem, while also raising issues around skills and investment.

Sarah Haywood, managing director of Advanced Oxford, said: “It is important for the region to communicate its strengths and the role in plays within the UK and global innovation economy.

“Despite the exciting work in our life sciences sector, we know there are challenges and barriers to growth that we must address.

“As we heard on Monday, we will only see the growth of these companies if we also address the skills challenges we are facing.”