EC acknowledges IBISBA as a leading innovator in biotechnology and biomanufacturing

This initiative aims to enhance the EU’s biotechnology and biomanufacturing sectors by simplifying the regulatory framework, fostering innovation, enhancing international collaboration, leveraging digitalisation, and promoting sustainable practices.

The communication highlights the importance of transitioning to bio-based products to support environmental sustainability and economic growth (European Commission).

In the action “Leveraging research and boosting innovation”, the EC cited IBISBA as a “trusted digital repository and service network for the sector”, expecting it to lead the way in increasing EU competitiveness in the biotech industry, mainly by providing a service network and digital repository to support R&D activities. This endorsement underscores the EC’s dedication to promoting innovation, encouraging sustained investment in IBISBA, advancing skills development and job creation, and removing scientific, technological, and legislative barriers. These efforts aim to create a more favourable environment for growth and sustainability in the biotechnology and biomanufacturing sectors.

Since the communication’s release, numerous research institutions have reached out to learn more about IBISBA. Notably, in April, IBISBA Director Michael O’Donohue spoke at the OECD Global Forum on Technology, themed “Building Our Future: Policy Issues and Opportunities for Next-Generation Biotechnologies.” This forum explored the transformative potential of synthetic biology, gene editing, and biomanufacturing in addressing global and local societal challenges, while also emphasising significant policy issues, such as maintaining open science while ensuring biosecurity, developing resilient supply chains, and scaling biotechnology innovations.

During his intervention, Michael O’Donohue presented IBISBA’s vision and aims. The concept of service modularisation was particularly well-received, with international audiences appreciating the idea of modular services. The discussion involved extensive interactions with the audience, leading to questions about data standards and possible ways to develop partnerships and collaborations, thus leading to the development of an international ecosystem.