Cambridge Science and Business

Cambridge science has a long and esteemed history. The area is sometimes referred to as Silicon Fen because of the high level of science and technology businesses there. There are several science parks, for example St John's Innovation Centre and Cambridge Science Park.

There are an abundance of names who made important discoveries whilst studying in Cambridge. These include the likes of Lord Kelvin, Henry Cavendish and Charles Darwin. Sir Isaac Newton discovered the laws of motion here and has an institute named after him that specialises as an international centre for the research of mathematics and theoretical physics, in fact mathematics has always been a strong emphasis at Cambridge University since the 17th century. Henry Cavendish discovered hydrogen here and the Cavendish Laboratory, named after him, specialises in physics. Sir John Cokcroft split the atom and Charles Darwin articulated his theory of natural selection here.

Some of the businesses that have been located here include Sinclair Research and Acorn Computers. Sinclair Research is one of the more famous companies and was led by Sir Clive Sinclair, who deliverd the first mass market computer the ZX81 to the British market. Acorn Computers was in competition with Sinclair's and was divided into several subsidiaries, one called ARM Holdings that now has dominance in microchips for PDAs and telephones. Aveva initiated the field of computer aided design (CAD) and was formed in 1967 as CADcentre.

The establishment of Cambridge Science Park in 1970 was an important moment in the advance of the technological reach and power of the area. It was founded by Trinity College and was the first science park in the UK. It was built on land originally given to the college by Henry VIII in 1546. The St John's Innovation Centre is another example of the link between the academic and business; it was founded in 1998 by St John's College and seeks to provide young businesses with advice and assistance. Organisations that seek to add to Cambridge's standing and progress and provide networking opportunities have also formed such as the Cambridge Network whose motto is 'Cambridge Ideas Change the World'.

Author : Andy Jones

Andy writes for Knapwell Wood Farm, a bed and breakfast in Cambridge, UK that caters for business executives. Visit today: http://www.knapwellwoodfarm.co.uk