Biotechnology will take over Europe in September!
European Biotech Week is an annual programme of events aimed at raising awareness of the value and benefits of biotechnology throughout the EU.
Biotech is one of the EU’s Key Enabling Technologies, providing high value jobs, growth and solutions for living longer, healthier, more sustainable lives. The first European Biotech Week took place in 2013 to mark the 60th anniversary of the discovery of the structure of DNA, which is reflected in the European Biotech Week’s new logo.
“Biotech has been benefiting people and planet for centuries but, in many ways, we are only beginning to realise its vast potential for the future. It’s a field where the EU still leads in cutting-edge research and innovation and this means we have plenty to showcase and to celebrate.’’, commented Joanna Dupont-Inglis, Secretary General of EuropaBio.
Over the last six editions, European Biotech Week was celebrated by more than 40.000 European citizens and took place under the Patronages of the Italian and Portuguese Presidencies at national level. Last year, EuropaBio marked the European #BiotechWeek with a unique exhibition in front of the European Parliament, Brussels, to showcase the contributions of biotechnology towards achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
Activities and events organised during the week are as unique and diverse as the European biotech community itself. Initiatives include exhibitions, film screenings, round table discussions and flash mobs. Others, such as lab tours and open door visits to biotech companies, celebrate the passion, dedication and expertise of scientists and provide the opportunity for the next generation of EU biotechnologists to get an insight into the latest breakthroughs.
Matthew Moran, Chair of EuropaBio’s National Association Council, which is a main driver of the European #Biotechweek, concluded: “The creativity that Biotech Week inspires across the Member States is fantastic. There’s already a great range of events taking place but there is potential for so much more. We hope that everyone involved or interested in biotech will take part.’’
Click here, to organise your own event this year and show that Innovation is in your genes too!