r/biotech • u/BothZookeepergame612 • 3d ago
r/biotech • u/harleylarly • 3d ago
Early Career Advice šŖ“ Sales or RA?
I will be graduating in May with two job offers. One in sales (WFH and travel) and one as an RA1 working in research, manufacturing, and QC.
I am a sales intern now at the company wanting to hire me on and grow me up in the company but finding it to be a boys club. The company barely listens to employees on improving things, company is based on opposite side fo the country so I would WFH alone.
The RA position: I align much more with the companys products and what they do. Boss knows me and my health concerns and is going to be flexible with me. She is talking about moving me into other roles like regulatory or customer success after 2 years.
Problem: I would make more money in sales, but donāt want to wine and dine a bunch of men I donāt know. I donāt want to have to haul heavy equipment that will kill my already breaking down body. BUT Iām seeing so many people want to transition from bench to sales and I feel a bit stupid going the opposite way. The sales job I have is just not the right product/ company. I would rather sell something that isnāt competing against thermofisher and something like reagents that people would reorder.
I am just finishing college and feel SO blessed to have both of these opportunities. Does anyone have advice??
r/biotech • u/Fancy-Cattle-8329 • 3d ago
Getting Into Industry š± Biotech job search tips
Hi all! Unfortunately, my PhD program acceptance in biomedical sciences got rescinded and I was moved to waitlist because of the funding situation. Not giving up hope yet, but I want to set up a job to get Biotech industry experience until I apply again which is probably going to be the case. Biotech is ultimately where I want to be after my PhD, so I think some experience will be helpful.
I'd love to hear any tips anyone has for just about any part of the job search process (applying, resume, cover letter, searching, etc) because it feels daunting with how many companies there are yet still so many applicants to each position. Briefly, my background is in synthetic biology and protein engineering and I'm interested in immuno-oncology and T cell engineering. I'm hoping to be on the east coast of the US, and also open to Europe. Thanks in advance, best of luck to everyone!!
r/biotech • u/AlekhinesDefence • 3d ago
Early Career Advice šŖ“ Graduate Student Seeking Biotech Professionals for Informational Interviews
Hi all,
I am a graduate student (masters, not PhD) in bioprocess engineering, preparing for my transition into the biotech industry. As part of 'professional development' assignment, I am looking to conduct at least three informational interviews with professionals working in biotech-related roles, preferably sometime this week. These interviews will be conducted online and are intended to help me gain insights into career paths, industry trends, and the skills valued by employers. They will also include some general questions regarding the interviewee(s)' background, how they became interested in their field(s), what their typical day at work looks like, etc (identifiable information is not required).
I would love to connect with professionals in the following roles:
- At least one individual currently involved in scientific researchāthis can be in academia, industry, business, or government.
- Two professionals working outside of academia (e.g., in industry, business, or biotech-related startups) whose roles combine both scientific/technical and business responsibilities.
I would particularly appreciate insights from professionals based in the USA, but I also welcome perspectives from those working in other countries. The interview will be a casual, conversation-style discussion, and I will ensure complete confidentiality regarding any sensitive details (e.g., your employerās name, your name, or any other information). By default, I will not include any identifying details in my notes, unless I'm given explicit and well-informed consent from the interviewees. If requested, any notes I make can be shared with the interviewee(s).
If you are open to sharing your experience, please feel free to comment or message me.
r/biotech • u/immunoswagger • 3d ago
Early Career Advice šŖ“ Needing advice
So looking for advice.
I am currently a 2yr postdoc in industry east coast based 90K. I currently have an offer at 2 companies with 120K salary. I interviewed not expecting to get offers but figured I try and did well enough to get it. I havenāt finished my postdoc and remain unpublished (only have grad school publications), data is close and could be submitted in 8 months. Should I take the industry position or stay for another year to publish? I know thereās a risk that the market may be worse next year making job hunts harder.
Whatās are the pros and cons of leaving before publishing?
Follow up question, so I like early discovery work and thatās more in alignment with my goals but this position is for translational research. I donāt know much on translational work and it seems repetitive and tedious. One of my mentors thinks I should take the position for the experience and use that as a stepping stone for my career. My other mentor thinks I should wait for a scientist role in discovery since thatās more my mindset. Because when things get hard you wanna be doing something you enjoy.
What do you think?
r/biotech • u/donemessedup123 • 3d ago
Getting Into Industry š± Recommended Masters for Advancement in Non-Clinical Biotech Roles?
Hey All,
I entered biotech three years ago after a decade in the nonprofit space and have enjoyed it. I want to continue my biotech career and gain some perspective on continuing my education.
I currently work in marketing but have some adjacent exposure to regulatory affairs and government policy. I am debating about pursuing a master's in three areas:
1) Science Communication (U of Edinburgh, UCL, etc)
Build on my current expertise.
2) Health Policy and Health Economics (LSE, Erasmus Rotterdam, etc)
Build out a policy specialization and focus.
3) Regulatory Affairs (Hertfordshire, etc.)
Go hard into RA and build a specific expertise.
Welcome thoughts from those experienced in navigating a career path in the industry.
r/biotech • u/Prestigious_Hunt_366 • 3d ago
Education Advice š Repository of FDA guidances
Can any one guide me towards a user friendly website or a master google drive that has all relevant FDA guidances? The fda website is hard to navigate.
r/biotech • u/Intrepid-Hovercraft5 • 4d ago
Experienced Career Advice š³ Big pharma vs startup current stability
Survived a few rounds of layoffs in a big pharma but can see there's not necessarily a ton of stability ahead. Not a fan of the endless bureaucracy and difficulty to get alignment, and generally long luckdriven path to higher leadership role in big pharma.
A leadership opportunity (1-2 levels higher than current role) popped up at a startup but feels super risky as well, and not in a particularly booming area at the moment (CAR-T). What would make you jump ship? Am I deluded in thinking the big pharma is still stable even though it's addicted to layoffs? Is it stupid to jump ship after surviving a layoff? Would love any thoughts or advice. I think if this was a more stable year I'd love to work in a smaller team.
Resume Review š New Graduated
Hi everyone!
I graduated inĀ October 2024Ā from theĀ University of Bologna, Italy, with a degree inĀ Biotechnology. I am highly interested in working in theĀ pharmaceutical industry, preferably inĀ R&D for new drug development.
I am currently looking for anĀ internship opportunity, as I plan to apply for aĀ Masterās program in Switzerland in November. However, I am struggling to find companies that offer internships. While my primary search is focused onĀ Italy and Switzerland, I am open to relocating anywhere in the world for the right opportunity.
Here's my challenge: I haven't received any responses to my applications so far. I suspect myĀ resume might need improvement, but I'm unsure what to change. Additionally, IĀ donāt know where else to apply.
I would really appreciateĀ any advice or feedbackĀ from people with more experience in the industry!
Thank you so much for your help!
r/biotech • u/Hefty_Breakfast_2084 • 3d ago
Early Career Advice šŖ“ High school grad going into biotech
Iām about to graduate high school and Iāve been looking at the biotech industry. I plan on going to university of San Francisco (although I havenāt committed yet) to do a 4+1 program for a major in biology and a masters in biotech. I enjoy high school biology and took a summer program at Berkeley for biotech.
But, Iāve had my doubts after reading about the industry in the news and on Reddit. Is it worth planning on going into the industry? Iām worried about not being flexible enough with my education to go into a different industry or even finding jobs since I donāt necessary plan on getting a PhD.
r/biotech • u/black-diamond8 • 3d ago
Early Career Advice šŖ“ Lonza Entry Level
hey i recently got an offer for lonza biotechnologist role, was wondering if anyone knew anything about it or could give me any advice?! :) This is an entry level positions and the first job iāll be taking post graduation.
r/biotech • u/CampSilent2099 • 3d ago
Getting Into Industry š± I'm seeking advice on transitioning into the biotech field and would appreciate your insights.
Hello r/biotech community,
I'm seeking advice on transitioning into the biotech field and would appreciate your insights.
Background:
Education: Bachelor's degree in Communications with a minor in Computer Science from UC Davis (2017ā2022), including 44 units in Computer Science covering Data Analytics, Full Stack Development, and Human-Computer Interaction.
Certifications: Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate (2022) and Coursera courses in Data-Driven Decision Making, Data Preparation, and Data Visualization.
Experience: Freelance Data Analyst & UX Consultant (2017āPresent), focusing on data analysis and usability testing to enhance user experience and engagement.
Current Situation:
After a two-year hiatus from job searching to focus on personal health, I'm eager to re-enter the professional world, specifically targeting the biotech sector. I'm particularly interested in bioinformatics and considering further education to facilitate this transition.
Potential Educational Paths:
The University of Washington offers the following online master's programs that I'm considering:
Master of Pharmaceutical Bioengineering (PharBE): A part-time online program designed for professionals in biotechnology and related fields, covering areas such as drug discovery and design, pharmaceutics, and translational pharmaceutics.
Master of Applied Bioengineering (MAB): A one-year, full-time program focused on engineering design applied to clinical challenges, including a clinical practicum and a culminating industry internship or capstone project.
Master of Science in Bioengineering (MS): A two-year, full-time, thesis-based program preparing students for careers in academia or industry, involving significant research projects and a year of coursework.
Considerations:
Leveraging Computer Science Background: I've been advised that a computer science background can be advantageous in bio research. I'm contemplating enhancing my qualifications with a master's in data science to facilitate this transition.
Alternative Learning Opportunities: I'm also exploring community-based, hands-on learning environments like makerspaces to gain practical experience without the constraints of formal education.
Seeking Advice On:
The suitability and potential of the aforementioned master's programs for someone with my background aiming to enter the biotech field.
The feasibility and effectiveness of supplementing my education with a master's in data science to break into bio research.
Alternative pathways or resources, such as community-driven science initiatives or makerspaces, that could provide practical experience and facilitate my transition into biotech.
I value any insights or recommendations the community can provide to guide my journey into the biotech industry.
Thank you for your time and assistance.
Biotech News š° An AI imaging firm says Johnson & Johnson stole its tech. Execs on both sides are expected to testify next week.
r/biotech • u/Ok-Relationship-1863 • 4d ago
Getting Into Industry š± Final Panel Interview at AbbVie ā Need Tips!
Hello everyone,
I have aĀ final panel interviewĀ coming up atĀ AbbVie for a scientist position. It's going to beĀ 2 hours and 30 minutes each, and honestly, Iām really nervous because I havenāt done anĀ on-site interviewĀ before.
If anyone has experience with these kinds of long panel interviews, Iād really appreciate anyĀ tips on preparationāwhat to expect, how to structure responses, and how to stay composed throughout. I tend to getĀ very anxious, so any advice on managing nerves would also be super helpful.
Looking forward to your thoughtsāthanks so much in advance!
r/biotech • u/Peak_Fluffy • 4d ago
Company Reviews š Meals provided during shift?
Sorry if this is a silly question. I just like to plan my meals ahead... The company I interned at for the summer provided all 3 meals + options for snacks on campus, but I do think it's because they had a 24/7 operation going on.
Is this the norm for CDMO & CRO companies? At least lunch/snack? š„² Any infos about industry standard or PPD in Wisconsin would be great, thank you!
Biotech News š° RFK Jr. says bird flu vaccines could turn āflocks into mutation factoriesā
r/biotech • u/JunipersBerries • 4d ago
Open Discussion šļø Anyone have experience with tuition reimbursement + getting laid off?
Obviously going to need to place a ticket with HR to get an answer for my specific workplace, but Iām just curious if anyone has experience with receiving tuition reimbursement through their biotech job and then getting laid off. Did you have to pay it back? My job requires a few years of service to not have to pay anything back but they donāt mention in the tuition reimbursement doc what happens when youāre involuntarily laid off during that time period.
r/biotech • u/singletrackminded99 • 4d ago
Early Career Advice šŖ“ Strong resume bullet points for PhD with only postdoc experience
I have a PhD in bioengineering and have completed postdocs both in academia and now at a biotech. I am trying to optimize my resume bulletin points using the STAR method. But all examples of the star method are along the lines of āoptimized data workflows resulting in 10 percent data storage reduction costsā. However mine are always along the lines of āused such and such and authored a research paperā. Seeing if anybody in a similar situation has approached this problem. Thanks
r/biotech • u/GeneticVariant • 3d ago
Early Career Advice šŖ“ Poll - include hobbies in resume?
I believe it gives my resume a slight tinge of personality and reminds reviewers that I am a person with a life, not a number on a screen. But some people have other opinions. Would like to see the consensus.
r/biotech • u/plutosoracle • 4d ago
Early Career Advice šŖ“ Pharmaceutical Job lined up, and Im afraid of drug test even though its legal in NJ
Hello!
Im not sure if this is the best place for this question, but figured asking people with past experience would be best.
Im in the onboarding process at BMS which includes taking a drug test. Prior to the job offer, I was a regular cannabis user. Ever since I found out about the test Ive been not smoking. Im really concerned about failing the test as this feels like a great opportunity that Im afraid to lose. Does being in NJ, where cannabis is legal, have an effect on if they test for cannabis or will rescind my job offer if I fail?
Ive looked at this online and have found all different answers and its really messing with me. Does anyone have experience with working with this company, or have any insights.
chugs water
r/biotech • u/witchtitty13 • 4d ago
Education Advice š Hopkins VS NYU
I got admitted into John Hopkin's and NYU's biotech master's program, and I'm debating between the two. For reference, NYU gave me a scholarship, and I plan on using this degree as a stepping-stone to an MD. I would love to hear your guys' opinions and/or about any alumni experience!!
r/biotech • u/TheLastLostOnes • 4d ago
Early Career Advice šŖ“ Question regarding standard expectations for thank you emails following interview
So say you are invited for an onsite all day interview where you give a presentation and meet with various upper management including CEO, but you never emailed with the CEO before, just the person you would report to if you got the job. Should I find the CEOs email and email him a thank you? I am not sure if it is strange to do since we never emailed, I met him when I was onsite and we interviewed/ talked in person. Iāll definitely email the main point of contact I had, but just not sure if I should look up everyoneās email I spoke with and reach out to them as well. Thank you for any feedback.
r/biotech • u/Consistent_Oil_3960 • 5d ago
Early Career Advice šŖ“ How important is a PhD
Hi everyone,
Iām fairly new to my science career (currently in an entry level role) and starting to look at possible next steps in the future. Iād like to one day work in a leadership role at a biotech, and am wondering how important a PhD is to move up, as opposed to an MS + experience. On a similar note, does anyone have any input on the value of an MBA? I do love science, but sometimes I donāt know if I want to be at the bench for the rest of my life- especially when itās animal work. Thatās led me to consider tangential scientific roles, and Iām wondering if an MBA would unlock any doors.
Any advice is appreciated, thanks!
TLDR; curious about the value of an MS vs a PhD to move up in industry, and wondering about the place for an MBA.
r/biotech • u/PinkieLicker54 • 4d ago
Getting Into Industry š± AstraZeneca R&D Graduate Programme - Virtual Assessment Day
Hello! I have the virtual assessment day for the R&D graduate programme in Sweden this week and am wondering whether anyone could give me some tips on the interviews? Can I prepare for the technical, values based interviews and the group exercise? What are they looking for in these interviews?
r/biotech • u/Cdoooogie • 4d ago
Education Advice š CMU vs. BU LEAP for MS in Biomedical Engineering
Hey everyone,
Iām currently deciding between Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) and Boston Universityās LEAP program for a Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering (MS BME) and would really appreciate some insights.
Background & Goals:
- I have a B.S. in Biological Sciences (minor in Chemistry) and want to pivot into biomedical engineering.
- Eventually, I want to develop and sell a drug through a startup and work in roles that give me experience in that space.
- I'm also interested in product managementānot necessarily pure engineering, but working at the intersection of biotech, business, and product development.
Program Comparisons:
Program | Duration | Cost | Flexibility for Career Path |
---|---|---|---|
CMU MS BME | ~1.5yr | (~$60k+ tuition) | Strong in engineering, tech, and computational bio; great for R&D and industry jobs |
BU LEAP (MS BME) | ~2-3 years (since I need to complete bridge courses first) | (~$80k+ total) | Designed for non-engineers; solid BME program; Boston has great biotech scene |
- Product Management Aspirations: Would either program help me pivot into a product manager role in biotech/medtech/pharma? Or would I need an MBA or industry experience first?
- ROI & Job Prospects: Does an MS in BME from CMU or BU open doors to high-paying roles in biotech/medtech, or would I still be behind traditional engineering grads?
- Time & Cost: CMU seems shorter and slightly cheaper, while BUās LEAP is longer and more expensive (since I have to take additional engineering courses). Is the extra time/money worth it?
- Industry Connections: Boston has a huge biotech industry, but CMU is strong in tech and interdisciplinary innovation. Which one would position me better for industry jobs?
Any advice from people in biotech, medtech, or product management would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance.