Thriving in Biotech: Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers

For life science students and early-stage professionals, especially from historically excluded groups, navigating from academia to industry.

About this Event

Join us for the 2025 Scientists in Solidarity Annual Conference: Thriving in Biotech – Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers. This one-day event brings together graduate students, undergraduates, and early-career professionals in the biomedical sciences—especially those from historically excluded backgrounds—for a day of real talk in a safe space, skill-building, and community connection.

📍 Location: LabCentral 238, Cambridge, MA

📅 Date: Thursday, September 11, 2025

🎟️ Cost: $10 (registration required)

This year’s program features two powerful panel discussions and three hands-on workshops led by professionals across the biotech industry. Sessions are designed to provide actionable insights and build a strong foundation for a successful and values-aligned transition into industry.

Agenda


🕑: 08:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Registration & Morning Coffee

🕑: 09:00 AM - 09:10 AM
Welcome & Opening Remarks

🕑: 09:10 AM - 09:40 AM
Opening Keynote Address: Lila Neel from Project Onramp, Life Sciences Cares

🕑: 09:40 AM - 10:30 AM
Panel 1: Transitioning from Academia to Industry
Host: Dr. Vanessa Yanez

Info: This session will explore topics such as navigating the job market, understanding industry roles, and leveraging academic experience in new environments. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn directly from professionals who’ve made this transition.

🕑: 10:30 AM - 10:50 AM
Morning Coffee Break

🕑: 10:50 AM - 11:50 AM
Workshop 1: Building an Impactful Resume and Personal Brand
Host: Courtney Utsey, Aktis Oncology

Info: With Courtney Utsey, Director of People and Culture at Aktis Oncology, participants will craft compelling biotech resumes and develop authentic personal brands as they prepare to enter industry.

🕑: 11:50 AM - 01:00 PM
Networking Lunch

🕑: 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Workshop 2: Acing Interviews and Networking Like a Pro
Host: Courtney Utsey, Aktis Oncology

Info: This workshop is designed to help those in the life sciences from historically underrepresented groups feel confident and prepared when engaging in interviews and professional networking. Participants will leave with practical strategies for navigating biotech industry conversations, presenting their experience effectively, and building authentic professional connections.

🕑: 02:00 PM - 02:50 PM
Panel 2: Career Panel
Host: Dr. Anissa Belfetmi, Nixon Peabody LLP

Info: This session will highlight diverse roles across the biotech industry and give attendees a clearer picture of what’s possible beyond academia. Panelists will share personal career journeys, practical tips, and advice on how to discover and pursue fulfilling roles in the life sciences sector.

🕑: 02:50 PM - 03:10 PM
Afternoon Coffee Break

🕑: 03:10 PM - 04:10 PM
Workshop 3: Negotiating Salary and Benefits in Biotech
Host: Courtney Utsey, Aktis Oncology

Info: This workshop is designed to empower those in the life sciences from historically underrepresented groups with the knowledge and confidence to advocate for themselves during job offer negotiations. The session will highlight strategies for securing fair compensation and navigating benefits packages, with a focus on practical insights and candid advice.

🕑: 04:10 PM - 04:50 PM
Networking Session & Pay It Forward Coffee Chats

🕑: 04:50 PM - 05:00 PM
Closing Remarks & Farewell

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