Creating a Scientific Superpower Conference

Science and real estate call for national effort to make Britain a scientific superpower

28 Jun 2023 QEII, London EVENT

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For the second year running, EG and Bidwells hosted this conference that revisited how far Britain has come in unlocking its scientific potential, and how real estate is evolving to enable the UK to become a global science and technology superpower.

We explored what challenges the UK faces in attracting key talent and investment to drive our economy forward during a time of uncertainty. Asked how the Oxford-Cambridge Arc can maintain its position as a positive contributor to the economy and benefit other regional clusters. And how we can create the right place, infrastructure and resources for collaboration and multi-disciplinary approaches.

We brought together leading scientists, government ministers, scientific enterprises, and investors who discussed how the UK can continue its journey to becoming a scientific superpower.

Watch the session recordings...

Wed 28 Jun 2023 · Opening remarks

Opening Speech | Max Bryan, Head of Science & Technology

Bidwells’ Head of Science and Technology, Max Bryan, delivers a 10-minute opening speech to kick-start the conference. He focuses on the UK government's commitment to advancing science and technology to enhance the country's global innovation position. Listen to him discuss how government, academia, science and real estate can work together to introduce policies, funding and partnerships needed for the UK to realise its vision of becoming a scientific superpower.

Opening Speech | Max Bryan, Head of Science & Technology

Wed 28 Jun 2023 · Keynote | Sue Foxley, Research Director, Bidwells

The Power of Clusters: Unleashing Scientific Convergence

This presentation by Bidwells’ Research Director Sue Foxley explores the powerful potential arising from increased collaboration between life sciences and technology in the UK. Hear her thoughts on how we can capitalise on our research strengths to drive growth and innovation.

Wed 28 Jun 2023 · Panel session 2

Creating a World Class Supercluster through the Convergence of Science and Technology

In this panel session recording, listen to industry leaders discuss how to build world-class science and technology clusters in the UK. The session focuses on identifying the ingredients for successful clusters, creating connectivity across broader geographies, and fostering convergence between disciplines. With insights from senior executives leading major science parks, research councils, accelerators and international tech companies, the panel provides a multifaceted perspective on realising the UK's potential as a scientific superpower.

Wed 28 Jun 2023 · Keynote | Sir Jonathan Symonds

Perspectives of a Supercluster

This 20-minute keynote speech sees Sir Jonathan Symonds CBE, co-chair of the UK Life Sciences Vision, outline how the UK can build a long-term strategy to become a global leader in life sciences. Listen as this experienced leader talks optimistically about bringing together the NHS, academia and business to create a world-class environment for research, clinical trials, investment and more.

Wed 28 Jun 2023 · Panel session 1

Accelerating innovation as a key driver of our economic future

Our forward-looking first panel session focuses on how the UK can accelerate innovation to establish itself as a global science superpower. Hear senior leaders from government, academia and industry discuss strategies for commercialising research, fostering emerging technologies, and building world-leading science clusters. Their insightful conversation covers scaling up businesses, encouraging risk-taking and developing skills.

Wed 28 Jun 2023 · Keynote | The Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP, Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero

Unleashing Innovation for a Net Zero Future

Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Rt Hon Grant Shapps focuses on the UK's ambition to lead the world in green energy innovation and become an "energy superpower nation" in his keynote speech. He lays out how science and technology will be key to powering the country's future energy needs and tackling climate change.

Unleashing Innovation for a Net Zero Future

Wed 28 Jun 2023 · Keynote

Keynote | The Rt Hon Chloe Smith MP, Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology

Hear Secretary of State Chloe Smith outline the UK government's bold vision and strategy for cementing the nation's status as a global science and technology leader. This includes substantial investments in R&D, genomics and AI to drive breakthroughs in healthcare and spur economic growth. The minister also discusses nurturing talent, fostering industry partnerships, improving infrastructure, and ensuring researchers can access the capital they need to commercialise innovations.

Wed 28 Jun 2023 · Keynote | Neil Sachdev MBE, Chair of the East West Railway Company

East West Rail as a Catalyst for Scientific Growth

Watch the fireside chat between Neil Sachdev MBE, Chair of the East West Railway Company and Tim Burke, Deputy Editor of EG. Their conversation focuses on how the East West Rail project will boost business and innovation between Oxford and Cambridge by improving connectivity. Hear from the railway company’s chair on the timeline, route, and opportunities.

Wed 28 Jun 2023 · Panel session 3

Evolution of real estate for a new era of science and technology

This thought-provoking panel discusses the evolution of life sciences and real estate, focusing on key themes like sustainability, the importance of community and early engagement with tenants. Listen as respected industry leaders share their insights on building flexible spaces and innovation clusters that support growth.

Wed 28 Jun 2023 · Panel session 6

Breaking Boundaries: Global Science and Tech Giants Investing in the UK

Our final panel session of the day focused on the UK's world-leading scientific and technological capabilities. Senior leaders from pioneering companies discuss what makes the UK an attractive place for science and technology businesses. The discussion covers key strengths like skills, funding, regulation and clusters, and how to build on these for the future.

Wed 28 Jun 2023 · Panel session 5

Unleashing the Oxford-Cambridge Corridor as an Engine for Growth

Professor Andy Neely chairs a panel, where the discussion surrounds the Oxford-Cambridge corridor and its potential for growth. Listen to leaders from business, academia and government speak on how collaboration can drive economic growth and innovation across the UK. Hear our experts discuss strategies for developing clusters while spreading opportunity more widely.

Wed 28 Jun 2023 · Panel session 4

Revaluation of Science & Technology: The Investor Outlook

The opportunities and challenges around funding science and technology innovation in the UK as discussed in this panel from the Creating a Scientific Superpower conference. Senior leaders discuss where attractive prospects lie today and how the UK can mitigate financial risk when it comes to investing in science and technology enterprises.