Achievement

Championing Industrial Biotechnology at UHI: Dr Szabolcs Pap joins IBioIC’s IB Champions Network

We are proud to announce that Dr Szabolcs Pap, Water Technologist and Research Fellow at UHI’s Environmental Research Institute has been selected to be an IB Champion, representing the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) within the Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Centre (IBioIC) network.

IBioIC, established in 2014, is a European centre of excellence driving Scotland’s growth in Industrial Biotechnology (IB). As one of Scotland's most ambitious sectors, IB generated £800 million in turnover and 4,000 direct jobs in 2023. IBioIC actively connects industry, academia, and government to accelerate the development of sustainable bio-based products and processes, from biosolids and chemicals to textiles and medicines.

As an IB Champion, Dr Pap will act as a local advocate for industrial biotechnology, helping to:

• Raise awareness of IB opportunities across UHI and the wider Highlands region

• Promote IBioIC’s events, training, and funding opportunities

• Highlight innovative research and development in bio-based technologies

• Support collaboration between academia and industry

This role offers a unique opportunity to engage with emerging technologies, expand professional networks, and contribute to Scotland’s transition to a Net Zero economy. Champions receive training, access to exclusive events, and support from IBioIC to help amplify the impact of IB across the country.

IBioIC cohort 2025