Creating a Scientific Superpower Conference 2024

Powering Progress: Innovative Projects Connecting the UK

During the session, the panelists delved into various themes, such as the importance of collaboration in overcoming regulatory, funding, and technological barriers. They highlighted notable initiatives like the Oxo to Cambridge pan-regional partnership, Midlands Engine, and Northern Powerhouse, showcasing how these efforts translate groundbreaking technologies into thriving businesses. The diverse expertise of the panelists, ranging from biotech to space systems, underscored the multifaceted approach necessary for national and regional growth. Key takeaways included insights on the transformative potential of artificial intelligence, space-based solar power, and in-space robotics. Darius Hughes discussed Moderna's strategic collaborations in pandemic preparedness and mRNA research, while Sam Adlen emphasized the role of innovation clusters in the rapid development of space solar technology. The discussion concluded with a call for focused, goal-oriented clusters supported by robust government frameworks and industry partnerships. These compelling insights and success stories left the audience eager to learn more about the innovative projects shaping the UK's future.

The Special Relationship: Why PsiQuantum came home from the US

Founded by four UK professors in 2016, PsiQuantum set out with the ambitious goal of building the world's first large-scale, fault-tolerant, error-corrected quantum computer. After securing substantial funding and support in the US, the company grew to 300 employees and achieved a valuation of over $3 billion. Thompson highlights the unique advantages of Silicon Valley, including access to talent, a thriving ecosystem, and a culture that fosters rapid growth. However, PsiQuantum's recent expansion back to the UK showcases the country's strength in cryogenic expertise and its potential as a science superpower. By establishing an R&D facility at Daresbury Laboratories, PsiQuantum has leveraged the UK's specialized infrastructure and supply chain to accelerate their development roadmap. Thompson emphasises the significance of the UK's research innovation and the need to strengthen the special relationship with the US to maximise benefits for both nations.

Leveraging the NHS and the UK’s Unique Position

In this thought-provoking session, Dr. Rutter draws upon her extensive experience as a medical doctor and her current work at Cambridge and Anglia Ruskin universities.  She explores the unique opportunities presented by the NHS's scale and integration, discussing how collaboration between the NHS, academia, and industry can drive groundbreaking discoveries and improve patient outcomes. Dr. Rutter also shares insights from her role co-chairing a workstream of the Innovation Ecosystem Programme, shedding light on the ongoing efforts to transform the NHS into a catalyst for innovation. Throughout her keynote, Dr. Rutter highlights the importance of investing in data infrastructure, fostering a culture of innovation within the NHS, and engaging in a new dialogue with the public about the role of the NHS in driving scientific advancement. She concludes by emphasising the critical role the NHS must play in creating a UK science superpower, leaving the audience eager to learn more about this exciting vision for the future of healthcare in the UK.

Making the UK a Scientific Superpower

Minister Griffith emphasises the UK's strong foundation in scientific research and innovation, highlighting the country's world-class universities, research breakthroughs, and access to substantial capital.  He underscores the government's commitment to supporting the sector through increased funding and initiatives to drive innovation and remove barriers to success. The discussion also touches on the role of private capital, the importance of embracing risk-taking, and the potential impact of Brexit on the UK's science and technology landscape. Throughout the session, Minister Griffith offers compelling insights into the government's strategies for nurturing the UK's scientific strengths and creating an environment that attracts global talent and investment. He stresses the need for collaboration between the public and private sectors to drive the adoption of innovation and create new markets. With a clear vision and a comprehensive plan, the UK is poised to become a global leader in science and technology, shaping the future of industries ranging from clean energy to healthcare and beyond.

What does a good industrial strategy look like?

The panellists, each bringing a wealth of expertise from their respective fields, engage in a lively discourse on the progress, lessons learned, and core elements of a successful industrial strategy. They emphasise the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and a long-term vision in shaping a strategy that can withstand political changes and global competition. Key takeaways include the need for an enduring, consultative, and integrative approach, leveraging the strengths of universities, regional economies, and diverse sectors. The panellists also stress the significance of placing people and productivity at the heart of any industrial strategy. With their insightful perspectives and actionable advice, this session offers valuable guidance for policymakers and anyone interested in the future of the UK's economic growth.