The  guide aims to match industries with research experts relevant to their needs.

Minister  Lenihan said: ‘In line with the Government’s “smart” economy plan we  want  to  maximise  opportunities  for  commercialisation  of  academic research  activity and give entrepreneurs here a competitive edge to create new jobs for tomorrow’s workers.

‘We  want  industry  and academia working together in turning research into products and services for the global marketplace.

‘The Irish research landscape has been transformed over the past decade.

‘Increased investment in research has helped attract leading researchers to our  universities,  enabled  the  training  of highly skilled graduates and installed world-class facilities for cutting-edge research.

‘This  publication  will  help firms in the life science sector to identify and collaborate with world-class life sciences research teams’  The  guide  is categorised into sections based on six technology areas that are  key  to  the development of the life science sector. The areas covered include;   Clinical   Research   &  IT  for  Health,  Diagnostics,  Medical Technologies, Pharma Bio, Animal Health and Chemicals.

The guide lists applied researchers and profiles facilities that are active in  these technology areas and includes the points of contact for accessing expertise  in  each  research  institution.  This  guide  will provide life sciences businesses with information on how to identify and engage with the research expertise that is most relevant to grow their businesses.

Dr   Keith  O’Neill,  Head  of  Lifescience  &  Food  Commercialisation  at Enterprise Ireland, said “As part of the wider State investment in research and innovation over the past number of years, Enterprise Ireland has made a significant  investment  in  strengthening  the  Irish  technology transfer system.

‘There are now skilled teams of technology transfer professionals in place, throughout  the  higher  education  system,  to  facilitate  access  to new technologies and innovations.

“The  Life  Sciences  Research Guide has been produced to help companies to access  the  enormous  capability  of the Life Sciences research community. This  research  expertise can help companies improve the competitiveness of existing  processes, access new technologies or identify new opportunities.

The  information  presented in this publication was collated in partnership with  all  of  the  third  level  institutions,  and  we  look forward to a continued  close  partnership  as  we  work  with  the  Technology Transfer Offices,  and  our  client  companies,  to  help find the best way to bring innovative new technologies to the marketplace” Dr. O’Neill concluded.

More information: The Life Sciences Research Guide can be downloaded in PDF format at www.biotechnologyireland.com