Stem Cell Sciences (UK) Ltd

Stem Cell Sciences (UK) Ltd works in embryonic stem cell technology to develop quality research and apply it to the development of human therapeutics.

"Scientists get attracted to what is interesting and in a pioneering field such as stem cells there is a focal point for world excellence in Edinburgh.

With a vision of excellence, the increasingly global company Stem Cell Sciences Ltd. (SCS) recently moved their headquarters to Edinburgh. Peter Mountford and Hugh Ilyine, the two directors of SCS, moved with their families from Australia to Scotland because they see Edinburgh as the obvious hub from which to do this. SCS employs about thirty people worldwide and has ambitious plans for product development and global expansion.

Stem Cell Sciences was founded in 1994 and is driven by the wish to provide widespread clinical benefits of human embryonic stem cell therapy. To achieve this vision, SCS works in close
partnership with leading academic centres of excellence on a global basis. The company now has subsidiaries in Melbourne, Australia and in Kobe, Japan. In line with its fundamental principles of establishing close links with centres of excellence, SCS has a unique relationship with the Institute for Stem Cell Research (ISCR) at Edinburgh University, led by esteemed stem cell researcher, Austin Smith. ISCR is recognised world-wide as a world centre of excellence in stem cell research and technology.

Edinburgh is widely acknowledged as the centre for cloning ability and skill. There is almost unrivalled access to a range of leading biomedical research institutes whose proximity has helped create a dynamic biomedical community in the city. "Scientists get attracted to what is interesting and in a pioneering field such as stem cells there is a focal point for world excellence in Edinburgh. There is magnetism around Edinburgh because it is such a centre of excellence." Hugh Ilyine, General Manager

In January 2001, the UK Parliament agreed to allow research for therapeutic purposes on cells derived from human embryos. The aim is to increase knowledge about serious diseases and to develop treatments for them. This pragmatic, responsible and forward looking legislation has been a key driver for SCS’s decision to move to the UK.

Stem Cell Sciences are also excited about the prospects for the relocation of the Institute for Stem Cell Research and important components of the Medical Faculty to the planned £1 billion Centre for BioMedical Research adjacent to the New Royal Infirmary. This investment will position Edinburgh as Europe’s leading hub for regenerative medicine.

"The UK is the best legislator and the most forward looking environment for research
involving human embryos. It has a pragmatic and responsible regulatory environment that has been put in place by people who have properly considered the issues. There is genuine appreciation from the Scottish government and the UK government about what we are trying to achieve, and we are delighted that our model has been accepted as being a powerful one by them". Peter Mountford, Chief Executive

More information

Stem Cell Sciences (UK)

Hugh Ilyine moved with his wife and three children from Australia to Edinburgh

Irishman Ruairi Friel moved from Germany to Scotland to work for Stem Cell Sciences