Midlothian Science Zone – New Appointment
Midlothian Science Zone has appointed Emma McCallum in the role of project co-ordinator, to increase engagement and collaboration within the Midlothian business community and beyond, raising awareness to the opportunities this centre of excellence for animal health, research and science focused business this region presents.
Emma McCallum took up the exciting role as Project Co-ordinator with Midlothian Science Zone in October 2020 and will work with the project’s Steering Group to deliver on the key objectives of their Business Plan: to stimulate economic growth within the region’s science and research sector; promote the diversity, prestige, quality and capability of Midlothian Science Zone and to attract more companies, particularly those with a One Health focus and open to collaboration.
To help achieve these aims, Emma will develop channels to facilitate communication between businesses within the zone through a programme of business engagement, networking and familiarisation events. Observing current restrictions during the coronavirus pandemic, initially communication and events will be hosted virtually.
Business Collaboration
Collaboration is key, and increasing engagement with tenant companies will help to identify more opportunities with others in the region and also linkages for investment and funding opportunities to stimulate business growth.
Midlothian Science Zone (MSZ) is an attractive place to locate a business, nestled in a green belt area in the shadow of the Pentland Hills, and conveniently located on the outskirts of Edinburgh. Working with key partners and stakeholders, the excellence of science and research capabilities within the region’s science parks and research institutes will be part of promoting what we have here in central Scotland, in the zone.
Showcasing Midlothian Science Zone
Emma will be working with team member Lesley Parsons, responsible for MSZ’s digital marketing channels, to share and promote good news stories and achievements on a local, national and international level. In addition, Emma will be engaging with local partners on local and national policy requests and offering outreach and links to educational and local authority skills agencies.
“Although I have not previously worked within the Life Sciences sector, I have experience in working with many different businesses with similar goals and it’s exciting to be part of this growing, buoyant sector, particularly at a time when key industries are facing the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic and what the “new normal” brings.
I’m looking forward to promoting Midlothian Science Zone within the community, including working with Midlothian Council and the ‘Locate in Midlothian’ initiative and also to engage with young people and educational institutions with skills outreach to involve them in the future of the zone and the sector.”
Emma McCallum, Project Co-ordinator, Midlothian Science Zone
Midlothian Science Zone Forum
Business Gateway Midlothian have partnered with Midlothian Science Zone to create a Forum for businesses based in the science zone. The aim is to bring together a wide range of businesses to identify similar support needs, mutual opportunities and share knowledge across the Midlothian region.
On Tuesday 1st December, we invite businesses based in Midlothian Science Zone to join our first virtual forum. We’ll introduce the MSZ and Business Gateway Midlothian teams and learn more about your business to better align the support we can offer you, answer any questions you may have and to develop a plan going forward.
This forum will also provide a platform for business to business introductions to extend collaboration and engagement in the zone.
Please support our inaugural event to hear more about plans and opportunities, and whilst restrictions force us to be online do come armed with a cup of coffee.
The event is free and register today.
