The landscape of work is changing and the speed of technological advancements is accelerating. With this in mind, we mapped five markets receiving special attention from investors for agencies to keep an eye on.

Graphene

Over 200 times stronger than steel and 70 times more conductive than silicon. The ‘wonder material’ whose creators picked up a Nobel Prize, is a UK driven discovery that has the potential to revolutionise almost everything from car bumpers to ship coatings.

The Government is investing more than £90m in graphene research and infrastructure but it’s likely to be a few years until this sector really gains momentum.

Biotech

Massive growth and investment over the last three years means our biotech industry is finally catching up with the US and its infrastructure in place to bring products to market.

Chairman of MedCity, Dr Eliot Forster, told the telegraph:

“At the moment, the UK is top in the global rankings when it comes to research, but bottom when it comes to converting that research into a commercial product.”

According to the London Stock Exchange, the sector raised £1.26bn on the UK stock market last year, securing the biggest investment in over a decade.

A further £708 million was provided through private investment, doubling that of 2014.

This year had already crested a landmark in progression, as scientists investigating miscarriage have been given the green light to genetically modifying embryos.

IoT

Despite being less than a decade since the first iPhone, by 2025, an estimated one trillion objects will be connected to the internet with McKinsey Global Institute predicting this sector will net between three and six trillion dollars.

The emergence of wearables into health and fitness, technology, and insurance markets show the breadth of how much smart technology will revolutionise the way we live and work.

Nuclear

Despite delays and setbacks, the first nuclear plant in a decade is due to be commissioned at Hinkley Point C, generating 25,000 jobs during its construction from the associated effects, and opening its operational doors in 2025.

Further development of Sizewell Nuclear Plant will likely follow a decision on Hinkley Point C. EDF energy believe the development of an additional plant would also generate 25,000 employment opportunities, with 900 permanent jobs at the plant on completion

Quantum Tech

As a global frontrunner in quantum technology, the UK government invested £270 million last year to be rolled out in stages over the next five years.

A slow burner that is unlikely to see fruition within the next two decades but will create a lot of research roles. Potential applications to include mineral extraction, navigation without the use of satellites, medical imaging and secure communications.

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Calum is the Content Marketing Executive for Sonovate - an award winning fintech game changer that has redefined finance for the contract recruitment industry.  @Calum551