The Long Game

Sandy & Ross
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  • Entrepreneurship

The Long Game is a podcast that demystifies the science shaping our lives, and explores how great ideas built in Scotland become real-world medicines, devices, and companies at the cutting edge of life sciences.

  1. 1d ago

    E13: AI to Cure (Part 3) - Hacking Our Brains

    In this episode we attempt to uncover how AI is transforming the human mind, from decoding thoughts to rewriting emotions. Imagine a future where your dreams, memories, and even your emotional states are not private. We delve into the mind-bending capabilities of cutting-edge AI that’s learning to read, modify, and potentially control our inner worlds. From neural implants that detect and influence anxiety to machine-designed neurons that communicate directly with our brains, the boundary between science fiction and reality is vanishing fast.

    34 min

  2. Jun 9

    E12: AI to Cure (Part 2) – Drugs and Digital Twins

    In this episode Ross and Sandy delve into the applications of AI in biology, drug discovery, and clinical trials, highlighting the potential of AI to revolutionize the healthcare industry. It explores the role of AI in drug design, protein modelling, gene editing, and cancer vaccines, as well as the challenges and opportunities in clinical trials and drug approval. The conversation delves into the concept of digital twins and their application in healthcare, particularly in simulating human organs and clinical trial design. It also explores the transformative potential of digital twins for rare diseases and the ethical implications of using AI in healthcare. The discussion concludes with a reflection on the impact of AI on biology and the need for responsible decision-making.

    51 min

  3. May 31

    E10.2: Novabiotics and the NE Ecosystem - The Deborah O'Neil Interview

    In part 2 of this episode, Ross and Sandy continue their conversation with Dr. Deborah O'Neill where we discusses her leadership in the biotech industry, the challenges in biotech infrastructure, the economic impact of life sciences, regional investment and opportunities, and creative problem solving in the industry.

    29 min

  4. May 29

    E10.1: NovaBiotics and the NE Ecosystem - The Deborah O'Neil Interview

    In this episode, join Ross and Sandy in discussion with Dr. Deborah O'Neill, CEO of NovaBiotics. Released in two parts, in this first part of the interview Deborah discusses her journey from academia to entrepreneurship, sharing insights into the science and story behind the formation of NovaBiotics. We hear about the fascinating work they are doing to combat microbial resistance and the potential impact of their developments for cystic fibrosis patients. Throughout this episode she highlights the importance of place, Aberdeen in the North East of Scotland, but we will dig deeper into this part of the story in part 2. For now we focus on the science and the biology. Enjoy!

    27 min

  5. May 20

    E9: AI to Cure: Saving Lives or Sacking Staff?

    In this episode, the principal themes revolve around the application of AI in healthcare, focusing on efficiency, productivity, and patient care. The discussion also delves into the concept of virtual hospitals, the impact of AI on radiology imaging, and its role in emergency services.

    28 min

  6. May 13

    E8: Aberdeen's Half-mad Scientists and the birth of MRI

    In this episode Ross and Sandy explore the history and impact of MRI technology, highlighting its development in Scotland and its global significance. It delves into the challenges and breakthroughs in medical imaging, emphasising the contributions of Scottish scientists and the commercial impact of their innovations.

    29 min

  7. May 6

    E7: The Infrastructure Crisis - Where to Put Your Biotech?

    Most biotech start-ups struggle just to find space, but Scotland is pioneering a solution that could revolutionise how life sciences companies grow and thrive. In this episode Ross and Sandy peel back the curtain on the critical infrastructure bottleneck threatening Scotland’s $25 billion biotech ambitions, revealing how innovative models and hefty public investment are building state-of-the-art shared lab hubs to retain top talent and accelerate breakthroughs. You’ll discover what makes wet labs so fundamentally different from office space, from the complex HVAC and plumbing requirements to vibration-sensitive machinery that demands specialized, expensive infrastructure. Ross and Sandy break down the staggering costs that push startups out of the UK’s golden triad of London, Oxford, and Cambridge, while exploring the ambitious Scottish initiatives to close that gap with a £55 million public-private drive. They share how Scotland’s new incubator programs and the recently opened Health Innovation Hub are creating shared, high-spec facilities designed specifically to meet the demands of biotech and healthcare innovation. They dive into why location matters more than ever; proximity to hospitals, universities, and a vibrant network of scientists fuels deeper collaboration, faster research, and a more resilient ecosystem. With insights from experts involved in these projects, this episode reveals how Scotland’s strategic focus on infrastructure could turn the tide against brain drain, transforming the country into a biotech powerhouse. Whether you’re a founder, investor, or policy-maker, understanding this infrastructure battle is essential for shaping the future of life sciences. Perfect for entrepreneurs dreaming of building breakthroughs, investors looking to capitalize on a booming sector, or anyone passionate about regional innovation, this episode unlocks some of the secrets to making biotech ecosystems thrive from the ground up. Tune in to hear how Scotland’s bold approach is rewriting the rules of biotech growth, one shared lab at a time.

    31 min

  8. Apr 28

    E6: Is Scotland’s Patient Data the New Oil?

    In this episode we explore the economics of the health data revolution and learn about how a surprising and relatively unknown archive in Scotland could change everything. What if your genetic history, kept since 1965 in a vault, is the ultimate resource for life sciences innovation? This episode reveals how Scotland’s hidden DNA archive (over 2.5 million newborn blood cards) may be the key to revolutionising personalised medicine and global healthcare, all while safeguarding public trust.

    33 min
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About

The Long Game is a podcast that demystifies the science shaping our lives, and explores how great ideas built in Scotland become real-world medicines, devices, and companies at the cutting edge of life sciences.

Information

  • Creator
    Sandy & Ross
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Sandy & Ross