Stockholm is one of the world’s most creative life science hubs with a flourishing entrepreneurial environment for both startups and established businesses. And it’s not just Swedes who are able to reap the benefits of this ecosystem: many of Stockholm’s life science companies are foreigner-founded, showing that the city is a fertile breeding ground for anyone with an eye for innovation.

The decision to leave Tehran for Stockholm wasn’t an easy one for Alan Koliji. It was 2011 when the Iranian ecologist realised he needed to leave his homeland to pursue the professional freedom and impactful career he craved. He applied for a master’s programme at Stockholm University and within a month had packed his bags and made the move.