The association was founded on an idea that remains relevant to this day: Companies that develop and offer products and technologies for life sciences research need a common platform to represent their economic and political interests. At the same time, life science research and diagnostics are closely linked technologically. Under the umbrella of the VDGH, the spectrum thus ranges from technologies for basic research to test systems for medical diagnostics.
“When the division was founded, many technologies that now shape everyday research were still in their infancy,” says Dr. Anette Leue, Chair of the Life Science Research Division at the VDGH. “Since then, analyses have become increasingly precise and comprehensive: where, for example, tissue used to be examined as a whole, modern methods now enable analyses down to the level of individual cells. At the same time, multiomics approaches are capturing more and more biological levels and bringing them together. This development opens up entirely new possibilities for research.”
From Research Technology to Location Policy
As technology has evolved, so too have the focus areas of the division. In addition to a long tradition of monitoring the German market and customer communication—which has been strongly shaped by change—the division now focuses, among other things, on research funding, recruiting young talent, and the political framework for research and innovation.
Specific services, such as the AI-based FundFinder, make it easier for companies to search for European research grants. Through the LSR Career Days, the department also highlights career prospects in the life sciences research industry and connects companies with young talent from German universities.
“The connection between life science research and diagnostics is a distinctive feature of the VDGH,” says Dr. Martin Walger, the association’s managing director. “Many innovations that eventually find their way into medical care have their origins in life science research. Representing both industry sectors together gives us a broad perspective on the conditions under which innovations emerge.”
Focus on the Research Landscape
In this anniversary year, the division is looking ahead. New biotechnological processes, big data-based research, and artificial intelligence are opening up further opportunities for the life sciences. At the same time, the political landscape will determine how attractive Germany and Europe remain for research and industrial innovation in the future.
“Technologies will continue to evolve and open up new fields of research,” said Leue. “It is crucial that Germany remains a location where scientific ideas can give rise to innovations. To achieve this, we need favorable research conditions for the life sciences and close collaboration between science, industry, and politics.”
You may use the attached photo free of charge in connection with this press release for your reporting. Please credit VDGH / Christian Kruppa when publishing.
