Dozens of new life science jobs are due to be created in Scotland through an innovative 'two for one' deal aimed at boosting the recruitment of apprentices.

Under the new initiative, which was launched by First Minister Alex Salmond at Dundee College, £3 million is to be invested in encouraging companies across Scotland to create new science and research assistant jobs.

For every apprentice a life sciences company takes on, the Scottish government will pay the full salary costs for a second job to be made available, Mr Salmond confirmed.

He said: "The life sciences sector alone is an important component of the local economy with the wider effects on Scotland's reputation as a leader in life sciences attracting even greater economic benefits."

It is expected that the new initiative will help to create 100 new jobs, with many of them to be located in Dundee, which has been identified as a leader in the life sciences sector.

At the same time, it is expected that dozens of new construction and engineering jobs will be created in Scotland as work commences on a £300 million rail link from Airdrie to Bathgate.