When AstraZeneca chose Cambridge in 2013 for its global headquarters and new strategic R&D centre, it wasn’t just a relocation — it marked the beginning of a new chapter in collaboration at the heart of Europe’s largest life science cluster.

The decision was driven by Cambridge’s unique ecosystem of world-leading universities, healthcare providers, and industry partners. Over the past decade, this partnership has flourished, underpinned by a shared ambition to deliver progress for patients and society.

Together, the University of Cambridge and AstraZeneca are:

• Accelerating scientific discoveries into meaningful treatments.
• Nurturing the next generation of researchers and innovators.
• Strengthening the innovation ecosystem that makes Cambridge a global life sciences hub.

As Shaun Grady, Chair of AstraZeneca UK, reflects:

“Through our partnerships, we are accelerating discoveries into meaningful progress for patients, nurturing the next generation of talent, and supporting initiatives to unlock the full potential of the Cambridge innovation ecosystem.”

And for Professor Deborah Prentice, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cambridge, proximity is key:

“Our collaboration benefits from our close proximity, enabling a seamless transfer of people, materials and ideas between the two organisations.”

This is just one of many example of how the Arc Universities Group members and industry partners are working side by side to deliver breakthroughs that benefit not only the region, but society across the globe.