Nottingham is to host the first international veterinary bio-marker conference of its kind at BioCity from Wednesday July 8 until Thursday July 9.

BioCity Nottingham is the city's acclaimed bio-science centre of excellence, formerly home to Boots Pharmaceuticals where Ibuprofen was developed.

The conference has attracted leading veterinary delegates from the US, Europe and the UK, and from the animal health pharmaceutical sector. Its aim is to find out more about Nottingham's scientific strengths in the pursuit of animal health and increase the potential for collaborative working between Nottingham businesses and those from the UK, Europe and America.

Councillor Graham Chapman, Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, said: "Britain is known as a nation of animal lovers, and anyone who has cared for pets understands how they have become part of the family – their death can be devastating. But by leading research into animal health, Nottingham universities and businesses are not only saving pets, they're boosting our economy. These scientific businesses are building up our highly skilled, knowledge intensive industries and helping to ensure we stay on track to become a top ten European city for science and innovation."

Nottingham company Petscreen helps detect cancer in pets and is a great example of the type of animal health research work that takes place in Nottingham. The company uses the facilities at BioCity to help it provide a cancer diagnostic service to vets. Its scientific work enables it to detect the early indicators of cancer and the most effective treatment for individual patients.

Cancer in household animals in particular is a significant problem, with one in four dogs dying of the disease. PetScreen was formed to apply the most advanced cancer diagnostic, treatment and monitoring technology to help improve cancer care and survival rates in pets.

The company has done pioneering work in making sure that more animals than ever before can beat the disease. Last year they scored a world first, developing a cancer diagnostic service for dogs. They are currently working on a diagnostic system for the major cancers found in cats.

Whilst Professor Radcliffe is Chairman of PetScreen, he is also a very keen local advocate for enterprise and innovation in the region. He has held various roles with emda, was deputy Chair of emda's Business Services Group for two years and is visiting Professor for Enterprise & Innovation at Loughborough University. He comments...

"This is a major regional and international opportunity to develop veterinary and human biomarkers and enable new and advanced diagnostics and treatments which will benefit pets and humans alike. The conference highlights the importance of science to this city – and beyond for the region as a whole."

Nottingham City Council, emda, BioCity and Nottingham universities will meet with senior-level representatives from the Kansas City Animal Health Corridor in July to support the brokering of a relationship between the city and business and university contacts in America. The Council's Inward investment team Invest in Nottingham, emda and partners will not only promote the city as a business location but also assist foreign businesses through a range of services including recruitment support, finding new premises, developing transport plans, and accessing local networks and supply chains

On the evening of 7 July, a formal reception, supported by the City Council, will be hosted by the Lord Mayor of Nottingham, Councillor Gul Nawaz Khan at Nottingham Castle to celebrate advances in veterinary medicine and promote opportunities within this market for local companies.