The Nordic region has long been a hub for the life science industry, with several areas standing out as the busiest in 2023. The region's strong ecosystem of established companies, start-ups, and research institutions has attracted several life science companies looking to invest in research and development.
In this article, Associate Director Andrew Barrow and Recruitment Consultant William Eggenkamp, both focussing on the life sciences sector, explore some of the top cities in the Nordic region, job titles in demand, upcoming projects, and factors contributing to the growth of the life science industry in the region.
Top Cities in the Nordic Life Science Industry
Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm, Sweden, remains at the forefront of the Nordic life science industry, with a strong ecosystem of established companies, start-ups, and research institutions. The city is home to several leading pharmaceutical companies, such as AstraZeneca and Pfizer, as well as several cutting-edge research institutions, including the Karolinska Institute. The city's focus on innovation and research has made it an attractive destination for life science companies looking to expand. The city also offers a highly educated workforce, with 40% of the population having a university degree.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen, Denmark, is emerging as a key player in the Nordic life science industry, with a growing number of start-ups and established companies choosing to set up operations in the city. Denmark's favourable business environment, access to talent, and strong government support have made it a vibrant place for the sector. The city's commitment to sustainable living has also attracted several life science companies focusing on the development of green technologies. The city is home to several leading life science companies, including Novo Nordisk, Ferring Pharmaceuticals, and LEO Pharma.
Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki, Finland, is home to a vibrant life science industry, with a focus on digital health, biotechnology, and medical technology. The city is home to several leading companies, including GE Healthcare and Orion Pharma, as well as several world-class research institutions, including the University of Helsinki. Helsinki's commitment to technology and innovation has made it an attractive destination for life science companies looking to invest in research and development. The city also offers a highly skilled workforce, with a large pool of engineering and technology graduates.
Oslo, Norway
Oslo, Norway, is rapidly becoming a hub for the life science industry, with several companies and research institutions choosing to set up operations in the city. The city's focus on innovative research, favourable business environment, and strong government support have made it an attractive destination for life science companies looking to expand. The city's commitment to green technologies has also attracted several life science companies looking to develop sustainable solutions. The city is home to several leading life science companies, including DNB Healthcare and Nordic Nanovector.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik, Iceland, may be a small city, but it has a thriving life science industry, with a focus on genetic research and biotechnology. The city is home to several leading companies, including deCODE genetics and Alvotech. Iceland's commitment to sustainability and green energy has also attracted several life science companies focusing on developing green technologies. The country has invested heavily in research and development, with several world-class research institutions located in the capital city.
Job Titles in Demand
The life science industry in the Nordic region offers several exciting job opportunities for professionals with a background in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Some of the top job titles in demand include: Biotech researchers: Biotech researchers are responsible for developing new drugs and therapies using biotechnology techniques. They conduct research, design experiments, and analyse data to find new treatments for diseases. Pharmaceutical sales representatives: Pharmaceutical sales representatives are responsible for selling drugs and medical devices to healthcare providers, such as hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. They need to have excellent communication skills and knowledge of the products they are selling, as well as the ability to build strong relationships with clients.
Process Validation Engineers: Process Validation Engineers ensure that manufacturing processes for drugs and medical devices are efficient and meet regulatory standards. They work closely with production teams to identify and solve any issues that arise during the manufacturing process.
Clinical trial managers: Clinical trial managers oversee the planning, execution, and reporting of clinical trials. They need to have strong organisational and project management skills, as well as knowledge of regulatory requirements and clinical trial protocols.
Cutting-Edge Drug Development for Rare Diseases
One of the most exciting areas of the Nordic life science industry is the development of cutting-edge drugs for rare diseases. Rare diseases, by definition, affect a small number of people, but they can be devastating for those who suffer from them. The Nordic region has a strong focus on research and development in this area, with several companies and research institutions working on new treatments.
As the demand for new treatments for rare diseases increases, so does the need for new research and development facilities. In the Nordic region, several new site builds are currently underway or in the planning stages. These new facilities will enable companies to expand their research and development capabilities and develop new treatments more quickly and efficiently.
Another area where the Nordic life science industry is making significant strides is in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in drug discovery. AI has the potential to revolutionise the drug discovery process, by enabling researchers to analyse vast amounts of data and identify new drug targets more quickly and accurately than ever before.
Innovative Gene Therapy Treatments
Finally, the Nordic region is also at the forefront of research into gene therapy treatments. Gene therapy involves modifying or replacing faulty genes to treat or cure genetic diseases. This approach has the potential to transform the treatment of many diseases, and the Nordic region is home to several leading companies and research institutions working on innovative gene therapies.
Get in touch
Are you eager to launch a career in the thriving Nordic life science industry? Whether you're an established professional or just starting out, there are abundant opportunities to explore. If you seek guidance on your job search or wish to gain more insight into available roles, we encourage you to reach out to the skilled team at Amoria Bond. Our Life Sciences consultants possess the expertise and industry connections necessary to help you progress to the next phase of your career.
Or if you're looking to hire Life Sciences professionals for your team in the Nordics, my team and I are here to assist you. Feel free to contact us at any time to learn more about how we can help you find the best talent available in the market.
