Principal visit to Gujarat Biotechnology University

The University of Edinburgh has contributed significantly to establish India's first biotechnology university, working closely with the Department of Science and Technology in the State Government of Gujarat, and continues to play an important role in GBU as a knowledge partner.

During his visit to GBU, Prof. Mathieson interacted with current MSc students and faculty and toured the teaching and laboratory facilities. 

The University's partnership with GBU is one of the key UK - India higher education collaborations, as the curricula of GBU’s five MSc programmes is designed and developed by the University of Edinburgh, and is unique among equivalent offerings in India. 

The curriculum and new learning approaches at GBU are designed to produce industry-ready graduates, promote entrepreneurship, and empower students as future biotech innovators.

Prof. Mathieson also met with Chief Minister of Gujarat, Bhupendra Patel and DST Secretary Govt of Gujarat, Mona Khandhar, along with GBU’s Director General Dr. Subeer Majumdar, to discuss the future direction of this partnership, including plans for research and industrial collaborations. 

GBU also organised a Biothon event to coincide with the Principal’s visit, in which teams of students worked to brainstorm and develop solutions to key challenges posed by regional industry leaders. 

Prof. Mathieson gave away prizes for the Biothon, which was focused on seeking innovative biotechnology-based solutions to address societal challenges in Health, Food and Energy, and also participated in an industry roundtable hosted by GBU to discuss industry-academia opportunities and challenges with biotech industry leaders. 

The University of Edinburgh and GBU aim to strengthen the industry-academia relations by collaborating with regional biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, to build opportunities for R&D and skilled job creation and promote the development of Gujarat’s biotechnology ecosystem.

Prof. Mathieson's India visit also included strengthening the University's other strategic relationships with Ahmedabad University and International Fintech Institute in GIFT City.

The Principal's visit was covered by the regional press and featured in national newspapers.

Edinburgh University to tie up with industries in Gujarat, GIFT City | Ahmedabad News - The Indian Express

Gujarat Biotechnology University’s Biothon-2025 competition gets overwhelming response – Navjeevan Express