Overview

Engineering biology is a rapidly evolving field that harnesses biological systems to develop new solutions for a range of sectors, including agri-food, agricultural biologics and clean technology. Recognised as one of the UK Government’s critical technologies, engineering biology investments through the UKRI Technology Missions Fund are supporting a wide portfolio of projects that involve both university and industry partners.

In late 2025, an Innovate UK Global Expert Mission (GEM) focused on engineering biology innovation was undertaken, focusing on applications with agri-food, agricultural biologics and clean technology. A delegation of six UK experts visited key stakeholders across Switzerland to share insights on the UK and Swiss innovation ecosystems and identify opportunities for bilateral collaboration.

International collaboration is essential to unlock the potential for engineering biology to address some of the key challenges we face as a society, including climate change, food and energy security, health and management of future pandemics, as well as driving new economic growth. To support these opportunities UKRI invested £70 million in the 2023-25 Technology Missions Fund (TMF) and created the National Engineering Biology Programme covering food systems, biomedicine, clean growth and environmental solutions. Innovate UK has delivered two industry-focused initiatives in engineering biology as part of the TMF including Accelerator programmes supporting 40 founder-led companies, as well as 20 feasibility grants to SMEs and 48 collaborative R&D grants to support business-led innovation.

The UK and Switzerland have long-standing collaborative relationships in science and innovation, underpinned by a formal Memorandum of Understanding. Both countries possess unique strengths in engineering biology and host globally recognised industries. However, the Swiss engineering biology ecosystem, outside of life sciences, has not yet been the focus of international missions led by Innovate UK. This GEM focused to build critical relationships, raise awareness of UK capabilities, and develop strategies for future collaboration between the UK and Switzerland.

About the event

Join our Global Insights Webinar where we will provide a unique perspective on the Swiss engineering biology landscape. This online event will focus on:

• The innovation landscape and related challenges and opportunities around innovating engineering biology technologies for applications in agri-food, agricultural biologics and clean technology.
• How Innovate UK is supporting innovation in the engineering biology sector, and initiatives to develop further international collaboration.
• The key players and initiatives supporting collaboration opportunities between the UK and Switzerland.

Who should attend?

The event is essential for stakeholders in the engineering biology ecosystem focusing on applications in agri-food, agricultural biologics and clean technology. This includes technology developers, policymakers, regulatory authorities, and anyone interested in the future of food and sustainability.

Why attend?

Gain an in-depth understanding of the Swiss innovation landscape, market dynamics and bilateral opportunities.

Discover key players, collaborative programmes and partnership opportunities.