Michał KOWALSKI: Can Lower Silesia become the centre of Polish biotechnology?

en Language Flag Can Lower Silesia become the centre of Polish biotechnology?

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Michał KOWALSKI

Director of the Customer and Laboratory Services Department of the Wrocław Technology Park.

Lower Silesia, and Wrocław in particular, is emerging as a key biotechnology centre in Poland. The region is attracting innovative companies that are gaining recognition in both domestic and international markets. The dynamic development of the biotechnology and nanotechnology sectors is the result of a synergy between scientific and business expertise, combined with the accessibility of highly qualified personnel.

How Lower Silesia is at the forefront of biotechnology in Poland

.Wrocław is home to a number of biotechnology startups that make significant contributions to the industry. One such company is Biotts, which has developed a ground-breaking technology for the transdermal delivery of drugs. Their solutions may revolutionise the treatment of various diseases, including cancer and diabetes. Biotts has been recognised by the Google for Startups Accelerator and has gained international recognition.

Bioceltix is another Wroclaw-based company specialising in the development of advanced biological medicines, in this case for animals, with a particular focus on cell therapies. In 2021, it made a successful debut in the NewConnect stock exchange, becoming the only veterinary biotechnology company listed on the Polish stock market. Its collaborations with international contract research organisations (CROs) demonstrate a high standard of its research activities.

QNA Technology, which produces quantum dots and quantum inks, is also worth mentioning. The company’s work on semiconductor nanostructures may have a major impact on the development of such sectors as display manufacturing or photovoltaics. Founded by Artur Podhorodecki, PhD, and Mateusz Bański, PhD, the company also provides consultancy services for the implementation of its solutions.

Another noteworthy company, Pure Biologics, offers innovative solutions for immuno-oncology biologics and extracorporeal therapies. The company is engaged in the development of molecules that stimulate the immune system to combat cancer. Since 2020, it has been listed on the main market of the Warsaw Stock Exchange and has collaborated with numerous Polish and foreign scientific entities.

Genomtec, which is developing a mobile platform for genetic diagnostics in healthcare facilities, is another major player in this field. Genomtec’s rapid and accurate diagnostic tests have the potential to significantly enhance the efficiency of the diagnostic process. The company has won numerous awards at prestigious competitions, including Hubweek in Boston and the MIT Enterprise Forum Poland.

Furthermore, the region is home to companies such as WPD Pharmaceuticals, which is researching new anti-cancer therapies, and Captor Therapeutics, which specialises in protein degradation technology, offering potential solutions for treating previously incurable diseases.

Strong support base

.A strong academic and research base supports the dynamic development of biotechnology companies in Lower Silesia. Renowned universities, such as the University of Wrocław, Wrocław University of Technology and Wrocław Medical University, provide highly qualified specialists and conduct advanced research. Collaboration between science and business proves to be the key to success, leading to many achievements and advancements.

The Wrocław Technology Park is a significant contributor to the development of the industry. It offers companies a range of benefits, including access to modern laboratory and office facilities, as well as guidance on business, financial and legal matters. The WPT provides a supportive environment for innovation, connecting entrepreneurs with cutting-edge technologies and networking opportunities. The Park’s initiatives have enabled numerous biotech startups to expedite their development and achieve success in both the national and international markets.

An opportunity for the region

.Thanks to the synergy of science and business, as well as institutional support, Lower Silesia has the opportunity to become one of the key points on the biotechnology map of Europe. Investment in research infrastructure, the development of technology clusters and growing investor interest are all contributing to the sector’s growth.

This region demonstrates Poland’s potential to become an important player in the global biotechnology industry. Progressive companies, academic and scientific support and growing investor interest provide a solid foundation for further development. If current trends continue, Lower Silesia may soon be listed among Europe’s most innovative biotechnology regions.

Michał Kowalski

This content is protected by copyright. Any further distribution without the authors permission is forbidden. 01/11/2024