London, UK, 5th October 2015 / Sciad NewswireSynbiCITE and SynBioBeta are gathering with the University of Edinburgh on 6th October to celebrate the opening of the new Centre for Mammalian Synthetic Biology with a special SynBioBeta Activate! event in Edinburgh.

Following news that Synthetic Biology companies have raised $500million in funding so far in 2015 (compared to $75million in 2009)1, it’s clear that synthetic biology represents a colossal change in the future of biotechnology.

Professor Richard Kitney, Co-Director of the Centre for Synthetic Biology and Innovation at Imperial College, said: “We’re thrilled that the University of Edinburgh has chosen to recognise the enormous potential of synthetic biology through its new Centre for Mammalian Synthetic Biology, furthering Edinburgh’s already significant commitment to the advancement of synthetic biology.”

To celebrate, SynbiCITE, in partnership with SynBioBeta, the University of Edinburgh and Scottish Enterprise, will be hosting an evening of short talks and panel discussions about the new tools driving the synthetic biology revolution, followed by a drinks reception. Attending will be speakers, panellists and companies from both the national and international synthetic biology community.

Speaking of the event, John Cumbers Founder of SynBioBeta said: “It’s a pleasure to return to Edinburgh, home to a vibrant life science community, to showcase some of the best companies in the synthetic biology industry and to see the government and University investing in novel research that will create the next generation of companies”

You can find out more about the event at http://synbiobeta.com/conferences/synbiobeta-activate-edinburgh-2015/

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1. http://synbiobeta.com/these-synthetic-biology-companies-have-raised-half-a-billion-dollars-in-2015/

For more information contact:

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About SynbiCITE

SynbiCITE is a pioneering Innovation and Knowledge Centre (IKC) dedicated to promoting the adoption and use of synthetic biology by industry. SynbiCITE is a pioneering Innovation and Knowledge Centre (IKC) dedicated to promoting the adoption and use of synthetic biology by industry. SynbiCITE and our partners across the UK and globally are committed to developing this technology through responsible innovation which encompasses ethical, societal and environmental considerations.

About SynBioBeta

SynBioBeta is the leading community of entrepreneurs, investors, policy makers and enthusiasts devoted to the responsible growth of the synthetic biology field. They host international synthetic biology conferences and events that bring the entire community together several times each year, giving anyone the opportunity to meet with the bright minds building and shaping the bioeconomy.

SynBioBeta also offers a highly specialized weekly industry e-digest, news blog and educational courses in addition to providing companies in the industry with opportunities for advertising, exhibition and sponsorships for promotion.

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