Life Sciences Strategy for Scotland 2025-35

The 2035 vision for Scottish life sciences: accelerating growth, driving innovation

SAIC was pleased to attend the launch of Scotland’s new Life Sciences Strategy 2025–2035 on 20 November 2025 at the Life Sciences Innovation Hub, University of Dundee. The strategy was introduced by Richard Lochhead MSP, Minister for Business and Employment.

The strategy highlights the importance of collaboration and innovation across all areas of life sciences - not only human healthcare, but also animal and plant sciences, agritech, industrial biotechnology, and of course aquaculture. Net zero commitments are also featured, as is the emerging role of AI in accelerating drug discovery and transforming care delivery.

We’re proud that Sarah Riddle, SAIC’s Head of Research & Innovation, is part of the Scottish Life Sciences Industry Leadership Group, which played a key role in shaping this strategy and the sector’s future.

Scotland ranks among the world’s leaders for research productivity and impact, supported by its universities and network of research and innovation centres. Aquaculture is integral to this ecosystem, with Scotland hosting Europe’s largest concentration of animal health and aquaculture researchers making it a powerhouse for sustainable food production and environmental resilience.

Life Sciences in Scotland is projected to become a £25 billion sector by 2035. The strategy sets out an ambitious vision to keep Scotland at the forefront of global innovation, making it the location of choice for businesses, researchers, healthcare professionals, and investors.

Its priorities include stronger collaboration between business, academia, and government, faster adoption of new technologies, better commercialisation of research, and attracting global investment. The goal: a thriving sector that drives economic growth, transforms health and care, and strengthens sectors like aquaculture.

Download the strategy