This is part one of a trilogy on the Evolution of the Life Sciences in the UK. Read about the intro and background of our trilogy here.
The success of the life science sector greatly depends on access to a skilled workforce. Competition for top talent in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medical research is intense. This fight for talent is now extending into the tech sector given the crossover between tech and life sciences. Being an attractive employer to scientists has therefore become core to the start-up strategy, especially when it comes to the growing population of female scientists.
Women are leading men in PhD program completion
This graph shows the percentage of U.S. doctoral degrees awarded to women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. The data include both US citizens and residents and temporary residents.
Gender Balance
The sector still grapples with a significant gender disparity. Women remain underrepresented in various roles, from academia and research to executive leadership positions. That is despite females now making up over 50% of all PhD graduates, growing from just over 10% in the 1970’s.
In the UK, USA, and Europe, about 40–50% of employees at biotech companies are women. While women make up a substantial portion of the workforce, they are disproportionately absent, by 25%, from executive positions, boards of directors, and decision-making roles in both public and private organizations. This lack of representation can hinder diversity of thought and potentially stifle innovation in the sector.
Despite their high qualifications and senior positions, many women in science, especially those with working partners, still bear the primary responsibility for managing family obligations. This challenge adds significant pressure and complicates their professional coordination, impacting the UK's goal to remain a global leader in life science research and innovation. To attract and retain top talent, over 50% of whom are now women with PhDs, the industry must adapt to better support their specific needs.
Scope of Duties
Biotech professionals often have multifaceted careers that extend beyond the lab, including roles such as professors, guest lecturers, collaborative researchers, and corporate board members, among others. These duties are rarely located in one place or happen simultaneously, necessitating significant travel and coordination. This logistical challenge is even more pronounced for women, who frequently manage household duties, including caring for children or elderly family members. Reducing the physical distance between work, academic environments, community services, and home, along with improving transport options, can alleviate some of these burdens. While virtual communication has eased some challenges, the value of in-person interactions remains critical in this high-touch, fast-paced industry.
New Reality
The UK is on track to build 11.6m square feet of new lab space over the next 10 years. The choices made in planning, design and construction will impact the ability of women to participate in life sciences for years to come. By making decisions about ‘where’ and ‘when’, we will determine ‘who’ has the best opportunity to lead in the industry.
To attract and retain the best talent, life science companies need to be in vibrant space in areas with a strong talent pool. This has also led to concentration in specific cities and regions, further exacerbating pressure on suitable accommodation in these areas.
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Key Takeaways
The life science sector intensely competes for skilled talent, now overlapping with tech, emphasising the need for an attractive environment for scientists, particularly women
Women now earn more doctoral degrees in STEM fields than men, marking a significant demographic shift
Despite these academic gains, women remain underrepresented in leadership roles within the life sciences sector
Professional and family obligations disproportionately challenge women scientists, hindering their career advancement
The industry must adapt by enhancing workplace flexibility and strategically locating facilities to support and retain top female talent
About the Authors
Dr Neha Tanna is a licensed medical doctor with many years of experience in the Biopharma industry. She works as part of senior leadership teams in the biotech industry and as a venture capital investor.
Michael Cunniffe is the Managing Director, UK of Danforth Advisors. Danforth provide development and corporate support functions on a fractional basis to high growth life science companies across all development stages, from seed to public, including IPO and fundraising transactions.
Ryan Matenchuk is a real estate finance professional with a depth of experience working in the property industry for over 20 years. He worked closely with the design and development teams, investors, vendors and debt providers to bring significant projects to life.
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