Chalmers and others join forces to support medtech

Collaboration

Five bodies from western Sweden have joined forces to create a biomedical engineering centre, MedTech West, with the aim of creating better conditions for research, development and innovation in the medical technology through greater collaboration between academics, healthcare and industry.

A number of studies have shown that the Swedish medtech industry is lacking innovation, with a shortage of new ideas and proposals for pioneering projects. It is hoped that bringing the key players together will provide MedTech West with the conditions to inject new vitality.

“We are seeking to create an environment where ideas can be utilised and developed. This could lead to new products, processes and services to create growth at existing companies, which could also contribute to the establishment of new research-based, high-tech companies,” said, Stefan Bengtsson, Executive Vice President, Chalmers University of Technology.

Those involved in MedTech West are Chalmers University of Technology, the University of Gothenburg, the University of Borås, Sahlgrenska University Hospital and the Västra Götaland region. Together they are investing SEK 13.5 million (€1.25 million) extra over a three-year period in the recruitment of new researchers and in other initiatives to develop this field.

“MedTech West will be developed into a dynamic, internationally competitive research and innovation environment in western Sweden. This is an area that is crucial to growth and welfare in Sweden and this environment will attract exceptional researchers, doctors and engineers. We also expect to secure major national and international research grants,” said Olle Larkö, Dean at the Sahlgrenska Academy.

“Healthcare in the region has for many years worked closely with Sahlgrenska Academy, Chalmers and the med tech industry. This has contributed to its success in a number of areas. This cooperation is now being reinforced, to the benefit of patients and growth in the region,” Jan Eriksson, Hospital Director at Sahlgrenska University Hospital said.

 High-tech solutions are acquiring greater significance in specialised healthcare, noted Björn Brorström, Executive Vice President, University of Borås. “To satisfy needs we are now investing jointly in technology-driven research and development with a focus on solving current problems in the healthcare sector.”

Within the framework of this investment four new research positions will be funded during the period 2009-2011.