UK biotech booming with increased job openings, notes recruitment data

According to the Association of Professional Staffing Companies (APSCo), the number of job openings within biotech has increased by more than a third in a year (ending 31 August).

This data follows reports released by the UK BioIndustry Association (BIA) stating that the biotech sector in the UK is set to close in on San Francisco and Boston, which are the two leading centres for life sciences.

The data, provided by business intelligence specialist, Vacancysoft, found that demand for professionals within ‘big pharma’ reduced by 12.2%. Hiring activity within contract research organisations (CROs) remained largely stable, with vacancies dropping by 0.15% over the year. Additionally, the data showed that overall vacancies within the life sciences sector were lower by 5.2% during the same period.

More than half of vacancies (55.4%) recorded were for scientists, however, the data showed that overall for the profession the number of openings year-on-year was 6.3% fewer. Demand for sales staff was found to be higher by 8.8% over the year.

“Despite concerns around how reduced access to markets post-Brexit will impact UK pharma jobs, the sector remained resilient in the year to August, with biotech performing particularly well,” explained Ann Swain, chief executive of APSCo. “The pharmaceuticals sector currently supports around half a million jobs in the UK, and contributes roughly £60 billion to our economy. While overall vacancies are down marginally, the fact that global pharma giants, such as AstraZeneca are continuing to invest in the UK indicates that future opportunities look bright. Particularly when you consider that BIA’s report found that the UK had the most robust clinical pipeline in Europe.”