India’s life sciences sector is outpacing global counterparts in designing and delivering next-generation laboratory environments, according to Unispace’s latest Global Life Sciences 2025 Survey Report. The findings highlight how Indian pharmaceutical, biotech, and medtech companies are taking the lead in lab innovation, adaptability, and integration of emerging technologies.

The survey, which captured insights from 400 senior and mid-level life sciences leaders across India, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland, reveals that 66 per cent of Indian respondents consider their laboratories highly adaptable. This significantly exceeds the global average of 56 per cent. Furthermore, 65 per cent of Indian leaders believe their labs are well-equipped to integrate new technologies, again outperforming the global benchmark.

Strategic collaborations are a cornerstone of India’s lab infrastructure evolution, with 66 per cent of respondents citing partnerships and co-development as crucial to securing new funding. The report also finds that 56 per cent of Indian executives prioritise smart technology adoption, while 54 per cent value modular and flexible design layouts that enhance collaboration.

Commenting on the findings, Abi Roni Mattom, Country Director of Unispace India, said, “Indian life sciences companies are truly emerging as global frontrunners in building labs of the future. Our survey highlights their commitment to strategic design, innovation, and employee-centric features that support talent retention and digital transformation.”

As life sciences and R&D sectors continue to expand globally, Unispace’s report positions India as a leader in lab design that is both agile and focused on human experience. The study recommends companies embrace strategic planning and design innovation to future-proof their spaces and attract top-tier STEM talent.

Sustainability is also a strong theme in the Indian context, with significant interest in smart energy solutions such as solar panels, LED lighting, and advanced ventilation systems. These measures not only reduce environmental impact but also address resilience in regions with unstable power infrastructure.

Wellness and human-centric design are gaining momentum, with 57 per cent of Indian leaders valuing access to rest and recharge zones, while 53 per cent support creating visually appealing and comfortable workspaces to boost productivity and retain talent.

The report concludes that India’s forward-looking approach to laboratory environments is positioning its life sciences sector at the forefront of global innovation. As companies prepare for increasing global competition and talent shortages, strategic investments in lab design will be essential to sustain growth and attract the next generation of scientists and researchers.

Survey Methodology:

The study was conducted among 400 professionals across India, the USA, the UK/Ireland, and Switzerland, with 100 respondents from each country. Participants included CEOs, CSOs, Directors, Lab Managers, Scientists, and professionals in IT, R&D, HR, and Operations. The survey covered companies ranging from 30 to over 2,000 employees across pharmaceuticals, biotech, medtech, and digital health sectors.