History of life science research in Cambridge

The eastern region and the city of Cambridge have been at the heart of the biotechnology industry from its inception. Since the discovery of the structure of the DNA double helix by Watson and Crick in 1953, Cambridge has been world famous for its groundbreaking genetic research and scientific breakthroughs. The research conducted by James Watson and Francis Crick marked a remarkable moment in the history of life science research. It heralded the era of molecular biology and so formed the foundation on which most of the bioscience industry in existence today has been built.

Following further work at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) in the 1960’s, by Francis Crick and Sidney Brenner, the three base genetic code for amino acid synthesis was also deciphered. The 1970’s saw huge steps taken in the progress of biological research with the elucidation of the primary structure of insulin by Fred Sanger, whilst a member of the Department of Biochemistry, and the development of the chain termination method of DNA sequencing, for which Sanger was awarded a second Nobel Prize. This technique underpinned the sequencing of the human genome, much of which appropriately took place at the Sanger Institute. Further work at the LMB saw the production of monoclonal antibodies by Cesar Milstein and George Kohler, thus creating the platform for the development of a wide range of diagnostic devices and medical treatments.

Cambridge scientists have also led the way in innovative new areas such as bioinformatics, stem cell medicine, and RNA interference.

Cambridge Genetics Knowledge Park is contributing to this new era of post-genomic biology, through its work with clinicians, scientists, public health practitioners, ethicists and industry.

Innovation in the bioscience industry

In addition to its critical contribution to the life sciences, Cambridge has also been a centre for innovation in the field of enterprise and the commercial exploitation of its research base. This approach has led to the development of the Cambridge biotechnology cluster, within the city and the surrounding area. Many institutions in Cambridge, and the wider area have made commercially valuable contributions to the biotechnology sector, either through collaborative projects or the formation of spin-out companies. Research carried out at the University of Cambridge has led to the formation of a number of successful companies such as De Novo Pharmaceuticals and Solexa. This success has been echoed by a number of institutions associated with the university including the LMB, which contributed to the foundation of Celltech, Cambridge Antibody Technology, RiboTargets (now known as Vernalis), and more recent ventures such as Domantis.

Many colleges within the University of Cambridge have also supported the life science industry through the formation of dedicated research park facilities such as the Cambridge Science Park, Peterhouse Technology Park and St John’s Innovation Centre. Cambridge is also the home to one of the UK’s most active bio-incubators in the form of the Babraham Bioincubator. The bio-incubator promotes interaction between scientists in commercial ventures and those working in the BBSRC supported Babraham Institute. The Babraham Research Campus also offers other specialist services and facilities that the new generation of biotechnology companies are able to take advantage of.

A number of organisations have arisen to support innovation and enterprise in the eastern region. Some of these, such as ERBI, are aimed specifically at the life science industry, while others such as the Cambridge Network have a wider audience. The government also contribute to wealth generation in the area through the work of regional development agencies such as EEDA and the Greater Cambridge Partnership.