Life Sciences
With a deep history of achievements, the life sciences sector is a cornerstone of London's economy and a key growth sector. It employs over 21,000 people at London hospitals and research institutions, including over 2,000 researchers. More than $145 million is granted to research activities at Western University, $50 million at the Lawson Health Research Institute, and nearly $40 million at the Robarts Research Institute.
The industry is rooted in the diverse areas of research and expertise developed at such institutions as the Robarts Research Institute (Canada's largest privately-funded medical research facility), CSTAR - The Canadian Surgical Technologies and Advanced Robotics Centre, Lawson Health Research Institute, the National Research Council of Canada and the London Regional Cancer Centre.
Areas of expertise include biomedical, biotechnology, medical devices, clinical trials, medical imaging, xenotransplantation, advanced robotic surgery, and animal research.
London has gained strength and recognition as a national centre of excellence for biomedical technology, the commercialization and development of early stage biotechnology companies and a long tradition of excellence and innovation in advanced medical imaging. Many start-up companies are housed in London's Stiller Centre for Technology Commercialization, a 50,000 square foot facility, located at Western's Research Park, which provides support and services for early stage companies.
With access to 150 million people within a day's drive, London offers a remarkable cost advantage for biomedical and biotechnology companies. Wage rates are 10-15% lower than rates in Toronto and even less expensive when compared to major metropolitan centers in the US. While other centres in the world lament the shortage of skilled computer, technical and scientific talent, London provides an environment where great talent is both available and costs significantly less.
Related Links
BioOntario
BioPortal
Industry Canada
The Health Technology Exchange
London, Ontario Medical Devices
Invest in Ontario