Europe has long been a leader in scientific research, with no shortage of renowned research institutions and technical talent.
From the Oxford-Cambridge academic corridor to biotech clusters in Switzerland, France and the Nordics, hotspots across Europe continue to drive innovation.
Capital is also flowing into the life sciences. According to Sifted data, €3.6bn went into European biotech companies in 2025, and €3.4bn has already been raised this year. The drug discovery sector secured €4.3bn in 2025 — and €2.8bn so far this year.
However, Lara Formichella, project lead of life sciences and AI conference bio:cap, believes European researchers, investors and industry leaders are still working in silos.
Breakthrough discoveries emerge in one corner while funding is concentrated in another; industry engagement and support networks are formed too late.
