The University of Aberdeen remains one of Scotland’s top universities, with over 5,000 graduates entering employment each year, 41% of which go into science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) related jobs. According to the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), at 35% the city also has one of the highest retention rates in the UK behind places like Manchester (50%) and Glasgow (41%), which has no doubt helped to boost one of the largest clusters of energy tech businesses in Europe, as well as a burgeoning science sector.

This includes emerging high-growth industries such as clean tech, climate tech and renewables. With over 300 companies employing nearly 4,400 individuals in the city and generating a yearly turnover exceeding £520 million there is the potential to see an additional 3,200 jobs over the next five years, according to Oxford Economics. This makes ‘professional, scientific and tech’ the biggest growth sectors in the city.

Additionally, the city’s emphasis on renewable energy initiatives has also sparked a notable surge in opportunities for students passionate about science and technology. What’s more, as Aberdeen starts its transition towards a knowledge-based economy, graduates will play a pivotal role in propelling the city beyond its traditional industries.

Aberdeen’s transformation

The journey of the science and tech sector’s growth in Aberdeen has been spearheaded by organisations like Opportunity North East (ONE), a unique private sector catalyst driving transformational change to diversify north east Scotland's economy by accelerating entrepreneurial growth and fostering scientific advancement.

The university is also at the heart of this transformation. Collaborations with other Aberdeen institutions such as Robert Gordon University (RGU), the Rowett Institute, specialising in nutrition and food research, and the James Hutton Institute, which contributes significantly to environmental and agricultural sciences, all help to foster talent.

How do you foster this innovation?

As part of retaining this talent and ensuring growth, innovation hubs are crucial. Offering essential support and resources they provide the opportunities needed to pursue entrepreneurial ventures.

Aberdeen has several of these hubs already, including the Aurora Innovation Hub, NexusTech Innovation Campus, the EmergeTech Innovation Hub and the RGU Startup Station, all of which are designed to foster collaboration and creativity.

Innovative workspace  

These hubs are central to this innovation ecosystem. By providing dedicated spaces equipped with these essential resources and infrastructure, start-ups have the opportunity to work alongside like-minded individuals, exchange ideas and benefit from shared knowledge and experiences.

Additionally, they provide access to funding avenues. Whether through grants, seed funding or investment opportunities, this is crucial for businesses in their early stages.

Several tech start-ups have already emerged from Aberdeen, demonstrating the city’s growing reputation. For example, Codify is a software development company founded in 2000. It has since expanded its operations, serving clients globally, showcasing the scalability and success achievable to tech start-ups in the city.

Looking ahead

Looking to the future, Aberdeen is forecast to see total office-based employment increase by 8% over the next 10 years, with 12% in the professional, scientific and tech industries. With this in mind, Aberdeen’s trajectory in scientific growth holds immense promise, in part due to its expanding and thriving ecosystem. 

Further information

Contact Clare Bailey or Dan Smith

Aberdeen Spotlight – Spring 2024