A SCIENTIST at North Wyke Research, near Okehampton, has been highlighted as one of the leading bioscience researchers contributing to the UK's economic and social wellbeing. Professor Phil Haygarth's research at North Wyke on water pollution by agricultural activities was highlighted at a recent event at HM Treasury, run by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC). The research is helping to inform policy and to mitigate pollution levels. It is also helping to improve the quality of land and waterways, which not only benefits farming but improves everyone's quality of life. The event, 'Bioscience: Biomillions', illustrated how the UK's excellent bioscience research base, principally funded by BBSRC with more than £400M of public money each year, is delivering substantial economic and social impact. Other high impact bioscience research on show included work to understand and defeat hospital superbugs, research to understand ageing and to develop ways to encourage healthier ageing and research to help farmers increase crop yield as well as dealing with a changing climate. Participants in the event included bioscientists being highlighted for their contributions, dignitaries including Ian Pearson MP, the Minister of State for Science and Innovation, industry leaders, policy makers and leading academics. Mr Pearson said: 'Bioscience researchers in the UK have not only pursued excellent, world-class research, but they have also been active in ensuring that we all benefit from their efforts. 'In order to remain globally competitive and meet the future challenges of living within our environmental and population limits, it is vital that bioscience researchers continue to maximise the positive economic and social impacts of their research and activities.' Steve Visscher, BBSRC Interim Chief Executive, added: 'The UK's world class bioscience research base underpins major economic and social sectors such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, food, healthcare and the environment. 'Our researchers are amongst the best in the world in terms of the quality of their science but they are also making huge contributions to quality of life for people through economic and social impact.' The event also highlighted the success of BBSRC initiatives such as the Biotechnology Young Entrepreneurs Scheme in developing the innovators of the future, and the Business Plan Competition in facilitating the birth of new companies.
