COMMENT The success of the life sciences sector greatly depends on access to a skilled workforce.
Competition for top talent in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals and medical research is intense. Being an attractive employer to scientists has therefore become core to the start-up strategy, especially when it comes to the growing population of female scientists, who nowadays make up more than 50% of all PhD graduates, growing from just over 10% in the 1970s.
The sector still grapples with a significant gender disparity, with women remaining under-represented in various roles, from academic and research posts to executive leadership positions. This lack of representation can hinder diversity of thought and potentially stifle innovation in the sector.
Increased pressure
Despite their high qualifications and senior positions, many women in science, especially those with working partners, still bear the primary responsibility for managing family obligations, including caring for children or elderly family members. This challenge adds significant pressure and complicates their professional coordination, impacting the UK’s goal of remaining a global leader in life sciences research and innovation.
To attract and retain top talent, the industry must adapt to better support their specific needs. While virtual communication has eased some challenges, the value of in-person interactions remains critical in this “high-touch”, fast-paced industry. As such, reducing the physical distance between work, academic environments, community services and home, along with improving transport options, can alleviate some of these burdens.
Real estate evolution
The UK is on track to build 11.6m sq ft of new lab space over the next 10 years. The choices made in planning, design and construction will impact the ability of women to participate in science for years to come. By making decisions about “where” and “when”, we will determine “who” has the best opportunity to lead in the industry.
The career demands in life sciences, particularly for women, necessitate balancing long working hours and family responsibilities. A tangible solution is the creation of specialised residential zones with preferential housing options for life sciences professionals. Such zones would be strategically placed within walking distance or a short commute from research facilities and institutions. This not only mitigates the daily grind of long travelling times but fosters spontaneous intellectual exchanges and collaborations outside traditional working hours.
Integrating childcare facilities within workplaces can also transform the work-life balance for female scientists, signalling a cultural shift towards supporting their dual roles. As such, science-related real estate in large cities provides central support services essential for women, such as extended childcare hours and better transport connections, facilitating easier coordination of family and professional responsibilities.
Elsewhere, ensuring the safety of female scientists working non-traditional hours is essential for attracting leading female talent and creating a thriving work environment for everyone in the industry. Modern life sciences parks must support round-the-clock research with robust infrastructure, including secure delivery points and enhanced security measures, especially for off-peak hours, to accommodate the nature of scientific research.
Next generation
The design and development of life sciences spaces must prioritise flexibility, support and accessibility to nurture the next generation of scientific innovation effectively. By addressing these key areas, we can create environments that not only meet the functional needs of the industry but also enhance the wellbeing and productivity of its workforce.
The vision for transforming urban spaces into hubs of scientific innovation involves more than just construction – it’s about a shift in the socio-economic and cultural dynamics of the city. By focusing on accessibility, flexibility and inclusivity, the UK can create a thriving environment for the scientific community and set a new global standard for scientific excellence.
Ryan Matenchuk is chief executive of Galileo Labs
