New company launched to maximise the commercialisation of research at Easter Bush Campus

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The University of Edinburgh has partnered with private equity advisor JB Equity, who are raising an initial £15 million to support the venture.

Roslin Technologies will offer opportunities for investors looking to capitalise on the growing demand for food and agricultural products.

It will be led by a specialist team of investment managers with expert knowledge in animal science, big data, and project management. The team aims to raise further investment that will support the creation of licensed spin-off companies.

With a global population increasing beyond nine billion by 2040, innovation and investment in animal science and genetics will be critical to ensure global food security. We are seeing an ever-increasing appetite for investment in technology advancements in animal health and agriculture and Roslin Technologies will provide a channel for those funds to help accelerate these projects.

Martin Hjorth-Jensen

This investment is recognition of the excellence of animal sciences research in Scotland. It is especially timely as we become major partners in a UK Agri-Tech Centre of Excellence, and also form a joint venture with the International Livestock Research Institute in Nairobi with support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Professor David Hume

Hugh Edmiston, Director of Corporate Services at the University of Edinburgh, noted that the investment reflects the ongoing commitment and success of the University in commercialisation of its research.

He said:

The co-location of Roslin Technologies in the new Roslin Innovation Centre, currently under construction on the Easter Bush Campus, will provide unprecedented opportunities for researchers to access business and commercialisation expertise as well as funding.

Hugh Edmiston

JB Equity has commenced the fundraising process and will host the first investor day at The Roslin Institute on Thursday, 17th March.

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