Looking to climb the life science ladder? Head to the UK

A new report published by Hobson Prior suggests that life science professionals are more likely to experience faster career progression if they move to the UK

The report Global Mobility in Life Sciences is based upon a survey of 1,527 individuals working in the life sciences industry, predominantly within Europe. According to the report, the UK is one of the top three most popular career destinations for life sciences professionals, alongside Switzerland and Germany. Yet the UK came out on top for career progression; 71% of Western European respondents who’ve moved here said they experienced faster career progression than in their native country, compared to 58% who’ve moved to Switzerland and 57% who’ve moved to Germany.

This is good news for the UK’s life science industry, which is keen to remain an attractive option for professionals looking to relocate. Following the recent referendum, the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) urged the sector to send a ‘strong signal that it is open for business’. Indeed, Brexit has caused some concern within the UK life sciences industry, not least because 7% of its 70,000 workers are EU nationals, whose right to work and reside in the UK will have to be re-negotiated. However, the report suggests that since the UK’s life sciences industry – which has grown to over £60 billion – is a key contributor to the economy, it’s likely the Government will continue facilitate its access to international talent. 

On top of good career progression, the report states that 79% of life science workers relocating to the UK gain valuable new business contacts. Indeed, collaboration between life sciences businesses, researchers and academic institutions is facilitated by governmental bodies such as Innovate UK, and four of the world’s top ten universities are located here.

“The UK life sciences sector is experiencing a persistent skills shortage, and as a result, employers must often look overseas for the right candidates,” said Jake Thomas, managing director at Hobson Prior. “Many professionals take this opportunity to gain international experience and advance their career, and as our report demonstrates, the UK is an ideal place to do so.”