Cushman & Wakefield has appointed James Sheppard to head the firm’s new life sciences team, based in London.
A graduate in pharmacology and molecular genetics, Sheppard has developed an expertise in incubator and accelerator projects, guiding a range of investors, entrepreneurs and occupiers across the sector, Cushman & Wakefield said.
In recent years he worked on the delivery of both the Francis Crick Institute and Imperial College’s new Translation & Innovation Hub at White City. His new role will have a strong development angle, according to the firm.
'The UK is at the forefront of scientific innovation and the confluence of life sciences and technology is gathering pace,' said Charles Dady, international partner and head of UK landlord services at Cushman & Wakefield.
'To provide insightful advice, the real estate sector needs a deeper understanding of the dynamics affecting occupiers and the ecosystems within which they operate,' Dady added.
Sheppard said: 'The demand for lab space is growing exponentially and it is imperative that the industry seeks the right advice to manage this growth and build a sustainable science community in the long term.
'I am excited to be bringing my academic and hands on experience within the sector to Cushman & Wakefield whose global platform is uniquely positioned to capitalise on this exponential growth.'
