Each week we highlight five things affecting the life sciences industry. Here’s the latest.
UK’s life sciences long-term strategy may fall short
- Last week the UK government published its industrial strategy for the life sciences industry, detailing the ambitious goal for the UK to be the leading life sciences economy in Europe by 2030, and the third most important life sciences economy globally after the US and China by 2035.
- According to the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry, the plan includes important and necessary commitments to support the use of data for research, encourage investment in manufacturing, and accelerate the pace and ease of research, however the solutions proposed may not be enough to turn around the UK’s decline.
CROs show signs of recovery; however, future R&D funding is uncertain
- After a tough first quarter due, in part, to the National Institutes of Health’s funding cuts and tariff threats, clinical research organizations reported strong second-quarter results, with revenue increases and fewer customer cancellations.
- Despite current gains, CROs remain cautious about future funding, with executives warning that political and economic factors—like potential pharma-specific tariffs—could negatively impact 2026 bookings, reports EndpointsNews.
FDA launches fast-track review program
- Fierce Biotech reports the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has opened applications for its new Commissioner’s National Priority Voucher pilot program, which offers one- to two- month review timelines for drugs that align with U.S. health priorities such as affordability, domestic manufacturing and public health crises.
- Up to five companies will be selected in the first year. Eligible products must demonstrate alignment with one of five national priorities, including lowering drug costs, enhancing supply chain resilience and addressing chronic or rare diseases.
New leadership at FDA’s drug evaluation division
- A seasoned biopharma executive has been appointed to lead the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, overseeing drug approvals and regulatory strategy.
- According to BioSpace, the move is expected to influence the agency’s focus on innovation and streamline processes for drug development.
South Jersey to gain new medtech innovation hub
- A new innovation center focused on medical technology is planned for South Jersey to foster research, collaboration and job growth.
- NJBIZ reports that the facility will support startups and established firms, aiming to strengthen the region’s health care innovation ecosystem.
For more insights in life sciences, check out RSM’s industry outlook.
