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.

Stephen Chambers, CEO of SynbiCITE , 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 SynBioBeta Activate! Edinburgh 2015 on our events page.

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