In the microscopic world of cell separation, flow cytometry, and cellular therapy Miltenyi Biotec is a giant. Miltenyi Biotec is at the forefront of exciting biotechnology developments helping to support pioneering research and clinical advances into immunology, cancer, neuroscience and stem cell biology. The company is a world leader in magnetic cell separation technology and flow cytometry. No wonder Peter Norin, Nordic & Baltic Regional Manager says: “Share our passion for cells.”
A generous and humane technology
In research applications Miltenyi Biotec’s MACS Cell Separation technology allows researchers to easily separate out cells that they want (positive separation) and even the ones they do not want (negative separation). In clinical applications the new CliniMACS® Prodigy technology provides a closed system with centrifuge, cell separation and cultivation capabilities. Peter Norin explains the significance: “This allows clinicians, in stem cell transplantation labs, to produce individually tailored grafts and cellular products for immunotherapy. This leading medical device is at the forefront of saving lives.”
A unique “Bench-to-Bedside” offer
Miltenyi Biotec has grown rapidly over the past 15 years, and within magnetic cell separation now has 75% of the world market. Given the relative newness of the technology this is a rapidly expanding field that will be broadened with the introduction of new products. In cell separation, which offers huge potential in medicine for stem cell research, treating tumours, transplantation, genetics, Miltenyi Biotec uniquely offers a complete “bench to bedside” technology - from research lab to pre-clinical to patient treatment. Given the Nordic regions leading position in stem cell technology the establishment of Miltenyi Biotec in Lund was an important strategic step.
Lund - perfect life science infrastructure and location
Lund was chosen for the Nordic and Baltic Region office because Miltenyi Biotec thrives on young, energetic and creative talent. “It was important to be close to a leading university and Lund University is known internationally as a centre of research excellence, and to be part of the thriving Medicon Valley life science cluster.” according to Peter Norin. “Apart from that Skåne has a very strong Life Science cluster and tradition, and of course we are only 20-30 minutes from Copenhagen Airport. It was clear early on that Lund was the right place to locate to.”
Invest in Skåne invaluable support in establishment phase
In terms of successfully establishing the new regional office in Lund Invest in Skåne played a pivotal role. Peter Norin comments: “Invest in Skåne were very good at setting up the base for us to stand on. They organized a very successful two day programme for us, which included meeting people from the professions, visiting suitable office space and advice in general.”
A great start and a promising future
In just 12 months of full operation in Lund, sales have increased by over 30% and the Miltenyi Biotec brand strengthened across the Nordic and Baltic countries. The Lund office now employs 6 people, which will be shortly increased to 8, and eventually 10 people with a central service function in operation.
Peter Norin emphasizes this sales success: “The sales team all have PhD’s, which is important given the complexity of biotechnology. Having the ability and skills to cooperate with scientists and clinicians with advanced research teams is key to the company’s success in the Region. We have great people and great support from our parent company in Germany, which means we are looking forwards, of course, to great success in the future.”