At DTG, we were thrilled to participate in the Scotsman Life Sciences Conference, which returned in person and brought together leaders from industry, government, academia, and the NHS. It’s an energising time for Scotland’s life sciences sector — we’ve made tremendous strides over the past five years, and now the challenge is to push further and become truly global.

The Role of Technology in Transforming Life Sciences

As a digital transformation company, DTG sees technology not just as an enabler but as a cornerstone for future growth. While life sciences has traditionally relied on manual processes and paper-based systems, the time has come to modernise — to harness data, automation, cybersecurity, and integrated systems — so that we’re equipped for what comes next.

At the conference, our Director, Dave Tudor, joined the “People Power” panel discussion alongside Alison McIntosh (SULSA) and Yvonne Crabbe (Merck). The conversation highlighted the vital role of people in driving the sector forward. One key takeaway: new generations of talent expect to work with cutting-edge tools and technologies. If our industry still relies on paper logbooks or sees Excel as its highest standard, we risk losing the next wave of innovators.

What Needs to Change

To ensure Scotland’s life sciences sector continues to thrive, a number of priorities are clear:

• Adopt disruptive technologies. Automation, machine-learning, and real-time connectivity can transform R&D, manufacturing, and quality control.

• Upgrade infrastructure. Secure, scalable, and compliant IT systems are now non-negotiable.

• Align data and processes. Eliminating silos and ensuring systems communicate effectively accelerates innovation.

• Build digital culture and leadership. Transformation requires cultural change, not just technology adoption. Leaders must guide teams through this shift.

• Develop future skills. Demand is rising for expertise in areas such as data analytics, computer systems validation, automation, and cybersecurity. Training and recruitment strategies must reflect this.

DTG’s Commitment

As a digital transformation partner, DTG is committed to helping life sciences organisations achieve these changes. We provide technology solutions while supporting the cultural shift required to unlock their full value.

Scotland’s life sciences sector has already demonstrated its global potential. With bold investment in digital systems, infrastructure, and people, it can set the standard for the next generation.