Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald launched a report on engineering biology in Northern Ireland. The document outlines a framework for using biological processes to spur innovation in health, food and industry sectors.

Titled Engineering Biology in Northern Ireland: A Strategic Roadmapping Study, the report identifies six priority areas. These include diagnostics and biosensors, food security and resilience, large-scale capabilities and industrial biotechnology, circular bioeconomy, agri-tech innovation, and one health.

Dr Archibald stated that engineering biology can reshape healthcare, food production, manufacturing and environmental efforts. She noted applications in diagnostics, precision medicine, agri-food innovation and circular bioeconomy.

The report comes from Matrix, the Northern Ireland Science Industry Panel. It positions the region within a fast-expanding technology field and calls for joint efforts by government, industry and academia.

Professor Sam Turner, chair of the study, pointed to Northern Ireland's strengths in diagnostics, health and agri-food. He said the region lacks coordination, scale-up ability and sustained strategy, which this roadmap addresses.

Professor Helen McCarthy, Chief Scientific and Technology Adviser and Matrix ex officio member, described engineering biology as combining biological knowledge with chemical, engineering and manufacturing processes. She listed outcomes such as new medicines, agricultural products, sustainable fuels and advanced materials.

Recommendations cover a cross-departmental coordination body to leverage the Windsor Framework for regulation. They also propose skills strategies from doctoral training to apprenticeships, plus public engagement to explain benefits to citizens and officials.