A new network involving Strathclyde will fast-track innovation across nucleic acids research including DNA, by bringing together UK-based researchers, industry partners and policymakers.
Supported by over £900,000 in combined funding, including £650,000 from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) and £267,000 in partner contributions, the IANA (Innovation Across Nucleic Acids UK) initiative will create a coordinated, cross-disciplinary community focused on advancing nucleic acid research.
Genetic information
Nucleic acids are large biological molecules found in all cells and viruses, which store and transmit genetic information, acting as a ‘blueprint’ for life. The two primary types are DNA and RNA, which are built from smaller units called nucleotides, and are crucial for creating proteins, regulating cellular functions, and passing hereditary traits from parents to children.
Researchers in the area are often dispersed across different disciplines and institutions, limiting opportunities for collaboration and slowing the translation of discoveries into real-world applications.
The new network, coordinated by the University of Portsmouth in collaboration with Newcastle University, the University of Edinburgh, the University of Sheffield, and the University of York, as well as Strathclyde, will foster collaboration at a national scale.
Real-world
It will connect expertise across disciplines, including molecular biology, chemistry, engineering, computational science, and biotechnology, alongside anyone with an interest in nucleic acids, helping to speed up innovation and get ideas out of the laboratory and into real-world use.
The initiative will support the development of next-generation therapeutics, diagnostics and enabling technologies to deliver impact across multiple sectors, including healthcare, sustainable agriculture and biomanufacturing. It will also provide targeted support for early-career researchers and technicians through training, networking opportunities, and dedicated development initiatives.
Strathclyde will be leading the industrial engagement component of the network and enhancing interactions with the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, chemical synthesis and diagnostic sectors, and Glenn Burley, Professor of Chemical Biology at the University, said:
The goal of this network is to facilitate the development of new methods, tools, and technologies across the nucleic acid research landscape.
Connect researchers
Dr Amanda Collis, Executive Director for Research Strategy and Programmes at BBSRC, said: “BBSRC is proud to support this initiative, which will help connect talented researchers and innovators from across the UK and accelerate the translation of cutting-edge science into real-world solutions.”
Anastasia Callaghan, Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics at the University of Portsmouth, said: “If we want to see real progress in nucleic acid innovation, we need to work across disciplines and sectors, sharing ideas and building new collaborations.”