UofG strengthens partnership with Biocon
The University of Glasgow has strengthened our partnership with India’s leading biopharmaceutical giant Biocon with the launch of an innovative new programme, MSc Industrial Biotechnology.
In collaboration with Biocon, the University of Glasgow officially launched the exciting new programme during a multi-city delegation to India last month. The programme includes a unique industry training component whereby students can undertake a six-week work placement at Biocon facilities in Bengaluru, preparing the next generation of biotechnologists by providing them with hands-on experience in one of the world’s most dynamic biotech industries.
Starting in September 2025, this forward-thinking programme will see six postgraduate students join MSc Industrial Biotechnology (with Industry Training) at the University of Glasgow. As part of this collaboration, students will also gain invaluable exposure to Syngene, Biocon's contract research and development subsidiary, which is at the forefront of biopharmaceutical innovation.
This collaboration builds on the University of Glasgow’s longstanding relationship with India and its prominent biotech industry, particularly Biocon and its founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw. The partnership has long been a beacon of academic and research excellence. Over the years, the University and Biocon have worked together to advance both academic knowledge and industry practices, fostering a unique synergy between higher education and the biopharmaceutical sector. The University’s Mazumdar Shaw Advanced Research Centre serves as a testament to this collaboration, being a focal point for cutting-edge, multi-disciplinary research.
The University's engagement with India also reflects a broader commitment to fostering global collaborations, promoting student and staff exchanges, and supporting international research partnerships. With India rapidly becoming one of the world’s leading hubs for biotechnology, this new MSc programme aims to deepen the connection between India and the University of Glasgow, facilitating an even more robust academic-industry collaboration.
This partnership between the University and Biocon is an exciting step towards fostering international cooperation, and it underscores the importance of industry-academic partnerships in advancing the global biotech sector. As these collaborations continue to evolve, the future of industrial biotechnology looks incredibly bright.
University of Glasgow’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (External Engagement), Professor Rachel Sandison said: “The University of Glasgow has very close ties with India, and we are proud of the partnerships and relationships we have developed over many years.
“India is, and always will be, a major strategic partner for Glasgow and that is why I am delighted that we continue to develop successful relationships across business and academia. Giving students the remarkable opportunity to work and study with incredible organisations like Biocon provides a unique experience to become genuine world changers.”