
The Evolution of BioTech Websites
The Evolution of BioTech Websites
Over the past decade and a half, biotech websites have undergone a significant transformation, evolving alongside technological advancements and changing user expectations. As a digital design agency, we’ve seen firsthand how biotech companies have adapted their web presence, embracing trends that improve design, functionality, and user experience. In this article, we explore this evolution of biotech websites, highlighting the critical changes that have shaped this sector and continue to do so.
From Static to Dynamic: The Evolution of Biotech Website Design
In the past, biotech websites were often characterised by text-heavy layouts, clinical language, and functionality tailored for desktop users. These designs, though informative, were typically rigid, with little attention given to aesthetics or user engagement.
Fast forward to 2024, and the landscape is drastically different. Minimalist designs now dominate, featuring clean layouts that prioritise white space and strategic use of colour. Companies like Arterius are leveraging bold, dark-mode designs to stand out, combining these with bright accents that draw attention to key information. This shift reflects a broader trend in biotech website design, where simplicity and clarity are now at the forefront.

Beyond aesthetics, biotech companies have adopted more human-centred messaging. The shift away from overly technical jargon has helped make these websites more approachable, emphasising collaboration, partnerships, and the human impact of their work. This evolution helps companies connect more effectively with a broader range of stakeholders, including patients and investors.
The Shift to Mobile-First and Responsive Design
One of the most significant shifts in biotech website design is the move toward mobile-first and responsive design. In previous years, websites were largely optimised for desktop browsing, with little consideration for mobile or tablet users. However, with the increasing use of mobile devices, the need for responsive design has become critical.
Today, biotech websites are designed to provide a seamless experience across all devices—desktops, tablets, and smartphones. This shift is critical for engaging a diverse audience, from industry professionals to patients seeking information. Ensuring that all content is easily accessible, regardless of the device, directly impacts user engagement and enhances the overall perception of the biotech brand.
Mobile responsiveness also plays a vital role in search engine optimisation (SEO), improving visibility in search results and attracting more visitors. This is because Google now primarily uses the mobile version of a website for indexing and ranking. This means that if a site isn’t optimised for mobile, it could be penalised in search rankings. Also, mobile-responsive sites are typically optimised for faster loading times, which is a critical aspect of both user experience and Core Web Vitals. Slow-loading pages can lead to lower engagement rates, as users are likely to abandon a site that takes too long to load. Overall, by ensuring that your website is mobile-friendly, you expand its reach to a wider audience and improve its rankings.
Personalisation and Tailored User Experiences
Older biotech websites were built with a one-size-fits-all approach. Every visitor received the same experience, regardless of their interests or needs. Today, personalisation is a cornerstone of modern biotech websites, enabling companies to create tailored experiences for diverse visitors, including investors, patients, and researchers. By leveraging AI and machine learning, biotech firms can offer personalised content recommendations and virtual tools to assist the user.
For example, website design plays a role in clinical trials - by enhancing tailored user experiences during the pre-trial engagement process. User-friendly interfaces and intuitive navigation allow patients to easily access relevant information, helping them evaluate their interest in participation. Dedicated sections with comprehensive resources about trials—such as eligibility criteria, procedures, and FAQs—cater specifically to the needs of potential participants. Interactive online pre-screening questionnaires enable users to assess their suitability quickly, making the process more efficient and reducing unnecessary travel. These design elements collectively enhance user experience and foster higher engagement, driving a more diverse and representative enrollment in clinical trials.
As biotech websites evolve into integrated hubs for innovation, they are increasingly incorporating specialised tools and functionalities that enhance personalisation. AI and machine learning analyse vast amounts of research data, providing insights that inform decision-making and improve operational efficiency. For instance, AI-driven analytics can enhance user experience by personalising content on the website. By analysing user behaviour and preferences, biotech websites can recommend relevant articles, research updates, or product information tailored to individual visitors. This customisation makes it easier for users to find information that resonates with their specific interests and needs.
Visual & Interactive Design Enhancements

As we have already mentioned above, biotech websites are increasingly embracing advanced visual and interactive design techniques to enhance user engagement and improve information accessibility. Interactive charts, dynamic graphs, and real-time project dashboards enable stakeholders to quickly grasp key insights and trends. As the complexity of biotech research and data grows, presenting this information in a clear and engaging manner becomes essential.

Infographics, a far cry from the walls of text seen in the past, now distil complex data into visually appealing formats that are easy to understand. Biotech companies increasingly incorporate these visual enhancements to cater to diverse audiences, including investors and patients, helping to bridge the gap between complex research and public understanding.

In addition to these visual enhancements, video content is increasingly being utilised as a powerful tool to boost engagement. Short videos can effectively summarise research findings, explain complex technologies, or share patient testimonials. These dynamic visual formats not only capture attention but also allow for deeper emotional connections, making the content more memorable and impactful. Videos can facilitate better retention of information and encourage sharing across social media platforms, further amplifying reach and engagement.
Show + Tell: Delivering Immersive BioTech Websites
As biotech companies navigate the complexities of their industry, it’s essential to present information in a way that captivates and informs, emphasising the importance of developing an engaging website design and implementing a successful user experience in today's digital landscape.
At Show + Tell, we specialise in creating innovative web solutions tailored to the unique needs of the biotech sector. Let us help you connect with your audience and extend your reach - contact us today to start a project.