The Nordics’ Largest Life Science Initiative Takes Shape
Through the collaborative project Sahlgrenska Life, the Västra Götalandsregionen and University of Gothenburg aim to ensure that Sahlgrenska University Hospital remains a leading center for research, development, and innovation in the future.
– Sahlgrenska Life is a further development of Sahlgrenska University Hospital’s successful work and, in close collaboration with the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg and the West Swedish life science agenda developed by Västra Götalandsregionen, will continue to put Gothenburg on the map as a leading life science cluster in Europe, says Boubou Hallberg, Hospital Director of Sahlgrenska University Hospital.
As part of the project, three new buildings will be constructed: one on the university hospital campus, one at Medicinareberget, and one spanning Per Dubbsgatan to connect the activities on the hill with those of the hospital. The construction projects are at different stages, with the healthcare building on the hospital site now in the construction phase.
– We are currently following the established timeline, which feels very positive. The building will house intensive care and surgical units, an ambulance hall, an emergency department, a helipad, and will consolidate laboratory operations that are currently dispersed.
At the same time, the other two buildings, which will accommodate the translational clusters, research activities, and Västra Götalandsregionen’s collaboration with industry and the University of Gothenburg, are in the procurement phase.
– In this phase, we are procuring both overarching concept partners and companies that will carry out the construction. It is an exciting time, with several interested stakeholders in the market. The aim is to reach an award decision after the summer regarding a future property owner.
– At the same time, efforts are underway to identify key capabilities within the translational clusters, along with a process to identify both small and large partners who can contribute to the environment and foster various collaborations.
Strategic Collaborations
During the development of Sahlgrenska Life and the Medicinareberget area, Sahlgrenska University Hospital works closely with Västra Götalandsregionen’s regional development function and has established collaborations with industry in the region.
– There are already strategic collaborations with regional life science companies through Health Innovation West and Business Region Gothenburg, as well as partnerships with companies including AstraZeneca.
– We also maintain a strong dialogue with Akademiska Hus, which is developing Medicinareberget with new housing and facilities for life science companies.
