The issues of mobility and employment are often linked together and can be an emotive issue for candidates seeking a new position or their first step onto the career ladder. For some, a move to a different area to take up a new position is an exciting opportunity to meet new people and sample a different part of the country, while for others such a move, away from friends and family can be a daunting prospect.
Existing employees and those seeking a job in the Scottish Biotech industry face similar issues, which can be exacerbated by the nature of companies in the sector and the development of industry 'clusters' in various parts of the country. Clusters have developed in a number of key locations across Scotland, as companies in the Scientific sector have located in close proximity to each other, attracted by local enterprise initiatives, favourable business terms and local links to academic institutions. As such companies develop, a local pool of qualified and experienced employees also develops, acting as a further 'pull' to similar organisations looking to locate their business
This pattern of development looks set to continue…mirroring industry growth in areas such as Cambridge.. and while offering many advantages to the companies involved, does have an effect on the marketplace for scientific employees, making the issue of relocation a pertinent one for many in the Life Sciences field.
Ultimately, many factors will influence a decision on whether to relocate for a new position but in terms of career development, flexibility on your location will almost certainly widen your career options and increase your chances of finding a role. Faced with difficulties in recruiting staff in key areas, employers are becomingly increasingly supportive, frequently providing significant relocation assistance to help encourage candidates to make their move. As with any move, it is important to be comfortable with a potential employer, your prospects and the nature of the position….but providing these factors are in place…relocation could just help realise the career move that you have been looking for.
