The Society of Biology’s Accreditation Programme responds to a need identified by the ABPI in our 2008 report Skills needs for biomedical research to ensure bioscience graduates have the core skills employers want.

Biochemistry courses at Birmingham, Bristol, Sheffield and Liverpool are the first to receive accreditation through the pilot programme.

David Willetts, who spoke at the accreditation award ceremony on 20 March, said:

“Well informed students are at the heart of our higher education reforms. The Society of Biology’s Accreditation Programme will signpost students to the degree courses recognised by industry as providing the essential scientific and practical skills needed for a career in life sciences. This will further support one of Britain’s most important growth sectors.”

Sarah Jones, ABPI Education and Skills Manager, added:

“We believe that accreditation of bioscience degrees will enable employers to feel confident that recruits from UK universities have the skills and knowledge required to make substantial contributions to the research and development of new medicines.”