Pressrelease, 21 september 2017.
In the report Where is life science heading in the future? by Stockholm Science City, the future of healthcare is said to be predictive, preventive, participatory and personalized. Technology is taking an increasing role in both academic research and healthcare, pushing a need for strategic investments and clever use of infrastructure and expertise.
New types of cross-disciplinary collaborations are needed as science, healthcare and engineering converge and totally new opportunities arise in our connected and digitalised society. International collaboration and political openness are key in securing access to international talent, infrastructure, funding, knowledge and new therapies. Sweden has a good chance of maintaining a leading position in the life sciences. This requires effective utilization of national assets such as our information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure and know-how, our non-hierarchical way of working, our national health registries and our access to funding.
The report is based on presentations made and discussions occurring during a conference at Engelsbergs bruk, 4-5 May 2017, which was arranged by the Stockholm Science City Foundation and the Axel and Margaret Ax:son Johnson Foundation. The conference aimed to bring together representatives of different organisations and fields of interest to discuss the present status and future development of the life sciences. Various aspects ranging from global political standpoints to new technologies and ways of working were covered. Several challenges and opportunities for countries wanting to take a leading role in the life sciences were highlighted, with the focus on the future role of Sweden. The report can be used as a strategic document for decision makers and organisations active in the life sciences.