Newcastle Upon Tyne Journal

Biotechnology 'To Be Key Player In Economy'

The fast-developing science of biotechnology will be a key part of the region's economy in the coming century, an expert claimed yesterday.

The prediction came from Colin Self, professor of clinical biochemistry at Newscastle University and organiser of the first conference at the city's landmark Millennium Project International Centre for Life.

"There is no holding back progress and we have to be at the forefront when it comes to new ideas, innovation and processes which can create enormous wealth and jobs.

"In many cases it's a case of winner takes all," warned Prof Self.

"As well as being a major force for improving lives, it represents an extremely important economic opportunity."

The three-day event, from Monday, January 18, titled Making Biotechnology Happen, has attracted speakers from across the country and will be the first conference to be held in the UK. It will take place at the complex's bioscience centre, which will function as a base for biotechnology firms, and will look at how the knowledge in the field will transform the way people live in the next century.

"The fact that we are having the first conference shows what a dynamic place Newcastle is," said Prof Self.

"Biotechnology covers everything from genetic modification of crops, food production and medical advances to new ways of harnessing energy and tackling waste and contamination.

Prof Self said: "In the next millennium there will be absolutely remarkable things going on in biotechnology. Whole areas of our quality of life are going to be affected."

He said it was vital for the region to carve out a leading position in the field, which would attract companies, jobs, top staff and students.

"What is happening in Newscastle will turn the heads of those interested in the field. It is essential we establish such centres of excellence because if we don't, others will.

Prof Self said the region could repeat its feats of invention and innovation, led by men like George and Robert Stephenson, Lord Armstrong and Sir Charles Parsons in the 19th and early 20th Centuries.

"People do have concerns about biotechnology and think of Frankenstein, but we have to deal with the potential ethical problems," said Prof Self. Speaking at the conference will be Dr Neil Sullivan, director of the Newcastle bioscience centre, who said: "The event is attracting some of the most influential bioscientists in the UK and will help us build the bioscience industry in the North-East."

Speakers will include Dr Monica Darnborough, director of biotechnology for the Department of Trade and Industry, and responsible for advising the Government on policy; Richard Tumlin, expert adviser to the European Commission and Dr Colin Merritt, biotechnology manager of Monsanto, who will talk on feeding populations through biotechnology.