Life sciences in the Netherlands

The Netherlands’ life sciences industry has been gaining steady momentum in recent years, with the nation now boasting one of the most densely populated life science markets anywhere in the world. Home to more than 2,500 health, research and life sciences organisations, the Netherlands is becoming increasingly appealing not only for companies looking to gain a competitive edge in the industry, but also candidates who are ready to take the next step in their careers.

At Quanta, we have a long history of placing candidates in some of the biggest and best life sciences organisations in the Netherlands, with opportunities for roles such as Automation Engineers, QA Specialists and Planner/Schedulers. Here’s why it could be the perfect destination for your next job.

A booming market

The life sciences and health sector here is so thriving that it’s ranked as one of the nine ‘top sectors’ in the Netherlands.

With 12 research universities, 82 hospitals and an annual investment of $2.3 billion in research and development each year, the Netherlands is well and truly a global hub for life sciences and health innovation. Broadly speaking, the Dutch economy is one of the most stable in the EU, which combines with the nation’s appealing taxation system to make it a significant draw for international companies. Ranking eighth in the world for life sciences and health patents, according to Invest in Holland, the Netherlands is home to 360 life sciences companies within a 120-mile radius. It's only natural that with so many organisations jostling for top talent, there are a wealth of opportunities available for candidates working in the sector to make their mark.

In addition to life sciences opportunities, the Netherlands is becoming more of a hot spot for renewable energy jobs as it continues to invest in wind power and other renewable sources. With the Dutch central government aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2050, and 16% of all energy used in the Netherlands to be sustainable by 2023, we can expect to see more renewable jobs becoming available in the area. And if plans to build the world’s largest windfarm – complete with floating island – go ahead, there will be even more reason to make the move. The Netherlands boasts world-class R&D facilities and incentive programmes to support energy innovation, with heavy investment in smart grid innovations and solutions that have enhanced smart energy technology. Currently, biomass accounts for around 62% of sustainable energy production in the Netherlands, and as the government supports new technologies to be developed to further grow this industry, more opportunities for biomass professionals may become available in the area.

A beautiful place to live

Along with a positive job outlook, the Netherlands offers a truly fantastic lifestyle for those who work there. With the legal maximum working week capped at 60 hours, those who work here enjoy a strong work-life balance – in fact, the OECD Better Life Index ranks it second in the world in terms for work hours, with just 0.5% of employees working 50 hours or more per week on average.

In addition to the strict adherence to liveable working hours, the Netherlands promotes a healthy, positive culture that sees many locals eschewing cars and turning to bikes for transport and leisure, as well as enjoying the Netherlands’ many waterways by boat. The diverse landscapes of the Netherlands, from its lush green countryside to its windswept shorelines and contemporary cityscapes, attracts upwards of 15 million tourists per year. When you live and work in the nation, you’ll have the opportunity to explore every nook and cranny, from the picture-perfect Broek in Waterland to the fortified town of Naarden. The small nature of the country and its efficient public transport system makes getting around a breeze, allowing you to spend your weekends and days off enjoying city breaks and exploring as many hidden gems as you can find.

Be part of it

Be sure to take a look at our latest opportunities in the Netherlands, or contact us directly to see how we can help you take your career to this spectacular part of the world.