This edition of Laboratory News provides an in-depth look at the operational, technological and career considerations influencing today’s laboratory sector. This issue focuses on improving research reliability through materials science, alongside the integration of digital tools such as electronic lab notebooks and their impact on workplace culture. It also explores the growing biosimilars market, laboratory design considerations and the challenges of international expansion, offering insight into how labs and innovators are navigating both scientific and commercial complexity.
Inside this issue:
The PhD: A good investment still?
With so many alternatives, it's worth asking whether a PhD is worth the effort to secure a future in science.
Material matters
Rachel Sully explores how surface chemistry and material differences can impact biological assays and the reliability of data.
Post-patent challenges
Charting the development and integration of biologics and biosimilars into clinical practice.
Lab of the Future
A deep dive into how digitally enabled environments enable efficiency, innovation, and results.
Implementing change
Why installing an ELN system proved to be as much a matter of culture as it was technology.
In the hood, not just under it
Discover why protective units depend for their effectiveness on the neighbouring infrastructure and fit-out for safety.
Lab exports
How UK Export Finance (UKEF) can help small innovators over the export finance hurdle to reach international markets.
