Birmingham Science City

Birmingham is one of six science cities nationally that are harnessing the unique expertise of their universities and research institutes to drive the economy by supporting and growing innovative businesses.

Identified because of their strong science-based assets – such as a major university or centre of research excellence – science cities have particular potential to attract a critical mass of innovative businesses.

Birmingham Science City’s vision is to develop and use science and technology to improve the prosperity and quality of life of the city, the West Midlands and the UK.

Collaborative work coming out of Birmingham Science City includes the Ocular Allergy project, which draws on the research excellence of Aston University’s Academy of Life Sciences and the National Pollen and Aerobiology Unit at Worcester University to characterise ocular allergies and their treatments. The collaboration is improving understanding of what treatments work well in different conditions, developing new treatments and setting up the UK’s first Ocular Allergy Centre.

Local businesses such as optometrists and pharmacists are developing their businesses by engaging in the project and improving their knowledge and skills. This will lead to improved advice and better treatment for sufferers.

www.birminghamsciencecity.co.uk