Diversity and inclusion

Building a thriving, diverse workplace is a priority across all industries. For the UK’s life sciences and biotech sector to thrive, it must attract and nurture talented innovators from diverse backgrounds, who can access investment and retain talent in a highly competitive market.  

In 2023, the BIA published the first of its kind report on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in the innovative life sciences and biotech sector in the UK.

The data analysis demonstrates strong inclusivity and an overall level of diversity of talent working in the sector. The report also reveals significant diversity gaps across disciplines, management levels and demographic traits which require action at both a company and sector level.

Diversity and Inclusion in UK Biotech

Diversity and Inclusion in UK Biotech

The Diversity and Inclusion in UK Biotech report is based on a research study of 1,200 employees across 30 self-selected member organisations, representing a self-selected sample varying in size, investment stage and location. The individual member companies who took part were provided access to their organisation's specific diversity and inclusion data.

Read the DEI report

Upcoming DEI events

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External

LEAP HR: Life Sciences Europe 2025

 

 

In last year’s Diversity and Inclusion in UK Biotech survey conducted by the BIA, hearing loss emerged as one of the most prevalent disabilities. 12 million adults of working age have hearing loss in one or both ears.

As an employer, it is essential to be prepared for conversations about hearing loss in the workplace and to know how to best support staff members who disclose theirs. As part of our partnership, RNID and the BIA are teaming up to offer valuable resources and initiatives for all BIA members. Register to:

  • Book your FREE place in a remote Deaf Awareness Training session (normally £699 per session - limited spots available, book now!)
  • Order a bespoke plaque featuring your company’s name in British Sign Language (BSL)
  • Request bespoke employment and inclusion support, training, or partnership opportunities

RNID’s Hearing Therapeutics Initiative Network

Become part of a global cross-sector community focused on developing the hearing therapeutics of the future.

RNID’s ‘Hearing Therapeutics Initiative’ (HTI) accelerates the global development of new treatments and therapeutics to prevent and treat hearing loss and tinnitus. The HTI creates partnerships across the global hearing research ecosystem, bringing together hearing researchers, clinicians, funders, investors, and those working in biotech, pharma, and hearing device companies.

Learn more and join the HTI Network

RNID and BIA working together:

  • This partnership between RNID and the BIA and its members comes at a pivotal moment in global hearing therapeutics.
  • Our partnership will boost efforts to accelerate the progress being made to bring about treatments to prevent hearing loss, restore hearing for those who want it and silence tinnitus.
  • To maximise impact, 100% of funds raised over the year will be restricted to RNID’s research funding.