Advancing Microbiological Testing with Moredun Scientific
The Midlothian Science Zone Business Forum was hosted on Tuesday 9th December 2025 at Pentlands Science Park, when attendees were provided an overview of microbiological testing practices and regulatory compliance in the pharmaceutical industry, specifically focussed on the role of Moredun Scientific Limited in ensuring the safety and efficacy of biopharmaceutical products.
Moredun Scientific Ltd is the commercial arm of the Moredun Foundation, located on Pentlands Science Park in Midlothian Science Zone. A leading Contract Research Organisation (CRO), at the forefront of microbiological testing for the global animal health, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology industries. The company plays a vital role in supporting the development, registration, and manufacturing of veterinary and human medicines.
Presenting was Andy Chadder, Head of In-Vitro Biosafety, who has over 35 years of industry experience with a background in virology, vaccine manufacturing, and regulatory audits, and is well placed to ensure compliance with stringent pharmaceutical standards.
Cutting-Edge Facilities
Moredun Scientific’s state-of-the-art facilities include sterility cleanrooms equipped with Grade A isolators, tissue culture labs, and specialised mycoplasma testing laboratories. These GMP-compliant environments are designed to meet the highest standards of pharmaceutical manufacturing and testing, ensuring the safety and quality of products.
The company’s main building on Pentlands Science Park, and additional facilities at Castlelaw and Glencorse, undertake different areas of testing and together this provides a full service for clients.
Moredun Scientific also conduct efficacy and safety testing for veterinary medicinal products, including those for livestock and fish health. These efforts contribute to the development of innovative solutions for animal health and welfare.
Comprehensive Testing Services
The company offers a wide range of testing services, including sterility testing, mycoplasma detection, bioburden analysis, and mycobacteria screening. These tests are essential for ensuring raw materials, cell lines, virus seeds, bulk harvests, and final pharmaceutical products are free from contaminants such as bacteria, moulds, and other adventitious agents.
Sterility tests are subject to stringent examination and qualification requirements which Moredun Scientific Biosafety undertake, and in addition they offer non-regulatory testing.
Commitment to Regulatory Compliance
Operating in a heavily regulated environment, Moredun Scientific adheres to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards set by regulatory bodies such as the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), the European Union’s Eudralex (European Union Drug Regulatory Legislation), and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Their meticulous record-keeping and compliance with European and United States pharmacopoeial requirements ensure the highest level of quality and safety in pharmaceutical products.
Advancing Biomanufacturing Processes
Moredun Scientific is instrumental in supporting biomanufacturing processes, including the production of monoclonal antibodies, vaccines, viral vectors, and cell therapy products. Their rigorous testing protocols ensure that every step of the manufacturing process meets the required stringent quality standards.
Future Vision
With a focus on innovation and excellence, Moredun Scientific continues to lead the way in microbiological testing and biosafety. Their dedication to improving health and welfare in both humans and animals underscores their commitment to making a global impact in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.
This presentation led to several questions provoking discussion amongst participants, and we wrapped up the final Business Forum of 2025.
For more information about Moredun Scientific and their services, please visit their website or contact the team directly.
We would like to thank all contributors of to our Business Forums and to those who participated. These networking events encourage collaboration, overlap and discussion which is our aim to encourage engagement across the zone.
The next Midlothian Science Zone Business Forum will take place on 3rd February 2026 with details available on our Events page.
If you would like to be notified of future MSZ Business Forum Events or to present at one of our events, please contact Emma McCallum, Project Co-ordinator.