Tuesday 15th March 2016, 2:00pm
Roslin Technologies Ltd offers one of the world’s largest investment opportunities in research projects aimed at improving animal health and increasing agricultural productivity.
The University of Edinburgh has partnered with private equity advisor JB Equity, who are raising an initial £15 million to support the venture.
Roslin Technologies will offer opportunities for investors looking to capitalise on the growing demand for food and agricultural products.
It will be led by a specialist team of investment managers with expert knowledge in animal science, big data, and project management. The team aims to raise further investment that will support the creation of licensed spin-off companies.
Martin Hjorth-Jensen, Chairman of JB Equity, said: “With a global population increasing beyond nine billion by 2040, innovation and investment in animal science and genetics will be critical to ensure global food security. We are seeing an ever-increasing appetite for investment in technology advancements in animal health and agriculture and Roslin Technologies will provide a channel for those funds to help accelerate these projects.”
"This investment is recognition of the excellence of animal sciences research in Scotland. It is especially timely as we become major partners in a UK Agri-Tech Centre of Excellence, and also form a joint venture with the International Livestock Research Institute in Nairobi with support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.”
Professor David Hume, Director of The Roslin Institute and Research Director of the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies
Hugh Edmiston, Director of Corporate Services at the University of Edinburgh, noted that the investment reflects the ongoing commitment and success of the University in commercialisation of its research.
He said:
“The co-location of Roslin Technologies in the new Roslin Innovation Centre, currently under construction on the Easter Bush Campus, will provide unprecedented opportunities for researchers to access business and commercialisation expertise as well as funding.”
JB Equity has commenced the fundraising process and will host the first investor day at The Roslin Institute on Thursday, 17th March.
For further information, please contact:
Jen Middleton, Press and PR Office
The University of Edinburgh
t: 0131 650 6514
e: jen.middleton@ed.ac.uk
or Erik Tveteraas, JB Equity
t: 0131 466 3642
e: et@jbequity.co.uk
Roslin Innovation Centre
The University of Edinburgh
Easter Bush Campus
Midlothian EH25 9RG
