Venture capitalists weigh in on science funding debate

I spoke at an interesting event last week organised by OneNucleus, a membership organisation which brings together international life science and healthcare companies.  The audience was packed with representatives of both large and small companies including many biotechs.  It was the day before Vince Cable's speech and much concern about what he would or would not … Continue reading Venture capitalists weigh in on science funding debate

Cable and Willetts in show of dual support

I did warn you that things would really get going this week....and with two speeches in as many days you can be forgiven if you feel as if you have taken a left hook and then a right hook in quick succession. Science Minister, David Willetts, was on the stump at a Universities UK conference today.  He used … Continue reading Cable and Willetts in show of dual support

Cable reveals his basic instincts on science

Well, I think we can safely say that Vince Cable put the cat amongst the pigeons this morning.  Doesn't matter that we all knew the cat was coming, the reaction has been instinctive.  And there has been some uncharacteristically unacademic language in response to his blunt message. In fact that is the first thing that struck … Continue reading Cable reveals his basic instincts on science

Vince Cable on Science: a home-spun piece from afar

They say that if you want to see your hometown or nation in a different light you should walk with a stranger who is seeing and experiencing it for the first time. I probably learnt more about England during my spells living abroad than I have in the years before or since.  So I was … Continue reading Vince Cable on Science: a home-spun piece from afar

Caps-off to non-EU talent, says AMRC

With parliament returning tomorrow for a two week spell ahead of the party conferences, it would seem that things are springing into life again after a month of self-sedation.  Today, we publish our responses to the UK Border Agency and Migration Advisory Committee consultations regarding the proposed cap on non-EU migrants.  See here for more.  Or … Continue reading Caps-off to non-EU talent, says AMRC

Evan Harris and cuts to science funding

You may be interested in this call to arms by Evan Harris on The Guardian blog today.  His essential point is that scientists and their supporters need to focus their attention on HM Treasury from this point onwards.  Geoff Brumfiel makes a similar call in his article today also in The Guardian. That is certainly … Continue reading Evan Harris and cuts to science funding