Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has launched a major new report outlining how engineering biology can bolster Northern Ireland's economy, health outcomes, and environmental sustainability.

The study, titled Engineering Biology in Northern Ireland: A Strategic Roadmapping Study, represents the first integrated framework for developing the region's capabilities in this field. Engineering biology involves using biological processes to create innovative solutions for various sectors, effectively fusing biological knowledge with chemical and manufacturing engineering.

Minister Archibald said: "Engineering biology has the potential to transform how we approach healthcare, food production, manufacturing and our environment. From diagnostics and precision medicine to agri-food innovation and the circular bioeconomy, its applications span some of the north's most important industries. This roadmap gives us the evidence-based foundation to consider how best to act on that potential."

The report was commissioned by Matrix, the Northern Ireland Science Industry Panel, to position the region within one of the world's fastest-growing technology sectors.

The roadmap identifies six key sectors where Northern Ireland can lead:

• Diagnostics and Biosensors

• Food Security and Resilience • Large-Scale Capabilities and Industrial Biotechnology

• Circular Bioeconomy

• Agri-Tech Innovation

• One Health (the intersection of human, animal, and environmental health)

Professor Sam Turner, Chair of the study, noted that while Northern Ireland possesses "internationally competitive strengths," it has previously lacked the "coordination, scale-up capability and long-term strategic commitment" needed to lead the sector.

To accelerate innovation, the report suggests several key actions:

• Coordination Body: Establishing a cross-departmental group to develop a proactive regulatory strategy that leverages the Windsor Framework.

• Workforce Development: A comprehensive skills strategy ranging from doctoral training to technician-level apprenticeships.

• Public Engagement: A sustained programme to communicate the practical benefits of the technology to the public and policymakers.

Professor Helen McCarthy, Chief Scientific and Technology Adviser, added that the report is "very timely" in the context of the UK Industrial Strategy, highlighting the necessity of greener, more energy-efficient systems to produce new medicines and sustainable fuels.

The full report, Engineering Biology in Northern Ireland: A Strategic Roadmapping Study