Medicon Village, a Swedish cluster for life sciences, visited Wales’ new center for life sciences this month. The visit builds on a relationship which began 18 months ago when Life Sciences Hub Wales was chosen as Medicon Village’s first “twin.”

The two organizations identified a number of areas where they can share knowledge and collaborate. Care of the elderly and aging is of interest to both clusters and will offer opportunities for future research to be developed jointly.

Other key areas for research collaboration are cancer, medical technologies and e-health. The organizations also identified opportunities in the sharing of services such as clinical trials and analytical support. The clusters plan to use joint working to open the gates to increased levels of European research funding, as many of these funding sources require partnerships.

The Life Sciences Hub Wales was launched in July this year to create a vibrant life sciences ecosystem and to bring together academic, business, clinical, professional services and funding organizations to provide a commercially-driven melting pot of talent.

Dr Grahame Guilford, Life Sciences Hub Wales’ board member, said, “Working together will benefit both of us, as we learn from each other and partner on key research projects. We’re both eager to develop ideas together and involve more organizations. Collaboration is a key aim of the hub, and this is a perfect example of how partnering can improve research and innovation and ultimately help to improve human health.”

Executive Vice President of the Medicon Village Dr Ursula Hultkvist Bengtsson added, “We have been extremely impressed with the sector here in Wales. We have seen world-class research and enjoyed the collaborative spirit of everyone we have met.”