Clare Adamson MSP paid a visit to Motherwell biotechnology company RoukenBio during Scottish Apprenticeship Week.
RoukenBio is a biotechnology company based at Braidhurst Industrial Estate. They specialise in immunology and cell-based assays combined with cell and tissue expression analysis.
RoukenBio is engaged in a new project with University of the West of Scotland (UWS), through Innovate UK’s Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) scheme. The collaboration focuses on advancing research in drug development to create safer and more effective therapies for diseases affecting immune health, contributing significantly to public health outcomes. Specifically, it focuses on developing special tests – known as ‘translational assays’ – to predict how new drugs and treatments may work in humans.
Scottish Apprenticeship Week is a nationwide celebration of apprenticeships. It’s the time for everyone to shout about the benefits work-based learning brings to businesses, people and the economy.
More than £100 million funding to support Modern and Foundation Apprenticeships in 2025-26 has been confirmed by the Scottish Government. In total, the Scottish Government will provide £185 million investment to deliver apprenticeships to Skills Development Scotland, Scottish Funding Council and SAAS in 2025-26.
Visit apprenticeships.scot to find out more about the opportunities of an apprenticeship.
Ms Adamson, MSP for Motherwell and Wishaw, said:
“RoukenBio is a cutting-edge firm based right here in Motherwell.
“Their work is integral to the development of pharmaceuticals and the effects that different medicines have on cells. This research considers some key scientific challenges and it is at the forefront of new medical developments.
“This company is keen to promote STEM careers and that is in line with my ethos. I want to see more young people consider a career in science.
“We need more women and girls in science because we need to make full use of our talents to address the big issues of the future.
“My thanks go to RoukenBio and to organisers at the University of West of Scotland for giving me such a warm welcome.
“I am encouraging all of my constituents to consider an apprenticeship. It is a brilliant way to develop new skills, build confidence, and learn on the job.
“Inclusion and opportunity are at the heart of Scottish Apprenticeship Week. When we have fantastic local firms like RoukenBio carrying out world-leading research, I urge young people in Motherwell and Wishaw not to put a limit on their ambition.”
Background – Knowledge Transfer Partnership
The new project between RoukenBio and UWS was formed through the University’s Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) scheme, which connects organisations, academics, and graduates to address complex innovation challenges. The partnership provides a graduate the opportunity to lead project delivery, enhance their scientific expertise, and collaborate with experts in the field.
This year, Dr Athanasios Koulis, joined the team after completing his PhD, bringing his knowledge to advance the understanding and treatment of cancer and other diseases. This approach not only benefits local businesses like RoukenBio by enhancing productivity, profitability, and employment, but also strengthens regional innovation and improves public health outcomes.
Roukenbio
UWS – Roukenbio Partnership
Scottish Government - Funding for 25,500 new Modern Apprentices, 2,500 Foundation Apprentices.
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