By opening these new laboratories, equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, the company aims to provide resources to help cell therapy developers establish robust manufacturing processes.
The offices are also home to a team of technical and clinical adoption experts who will work closely with collaborators to guide them on bringing cell therapies to clinical trials and the market.
The new laboratories and offices were opened by Michael Matheson, Scottish government cabinet secretary for NHS recovery, health and social care.
“I am thrilled to be opening the new Edinburgh Laboratories for the Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult. Their innovative work is not solely focused on industry and research, but with working closely with the NHS and academic partners, to ensure our health care systems are prepared for the future,” he said.
In addition, the space includes a Universal Design Lab which has been designed for scientists with and without disabilities to work side by side. It is the UK’s first specifically designed accessible laboratory for the cell and gene therapy industry.
CGT Catapult said it hopes the laboratory will help widen participation in the industry and increase opportunities for more scientists living with disabilities to take up a career in cell and gene therapies.
This investment in Scotland also builds upon CGT Catapult’s existing work supporting emerging advanced therapy clusters in the UK, with its Manufacturing Innovation Centres in Stevenage, Hertfordshire and Braintree, Essex.
Edinburgh has become a hub for stem cell research, and the new space, located in the University of Edinburgh’s Institute of Regeneration and Repair, will support the region’s academic strength, the company said.
“Edinburgh is home to a thriving life sciences cluster, with leading academics, clinicians and therapy developers all working in close proximity,” said Matthew Durdy, CEO of CGT Catapult.
“By joining the Edinburgh BioQuarter, we hope to accelerate the continued growth and success of this cluster by providing access to the resources and knowledge needed to bring new cell therapies to the market.”