Life Sciences, Biotech, Pharma

The life sciences industry—spanning biotech startups, global pharmaceutical companies, and medical device organizations—offers exciting opportunities for students from all academic backgrounds.

Whether you’re passionate about lab research or interested in business, finance, or strategy, this field offers many opportunities to innovate and make an impact on your community.

Examples of employers in the field:

Pharmaceuticals: Johnson & Johnson, Eli Lilly and Co., AbbVie, Merck & Co., Pfizer
Biotechnology: Moderna, Biogen, Amgen, Novo Nordisk
Medical Devices & Diagnostics: Abbott, Boston Scientific, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Medtronic
Life Sciences Consulting & Services: Trinity Life Sciences, Charles River Laboratories, Lumanity, ZS Associates

Internships are a great way to explore your interests and gain hands-on experience. Consider joining a wet lab or dry lab during the academic year or summer. If you’re thinking about a PhD, early research experience is essential.

Beyond the lab, many companies offer internships in business, tech, and R&D. These roles typically open in late fall through early spring—just in time for our Biotech, Pharma & Healthcare Fair in January.

Graduates can pursue both research and non-research roles in the life sciences. Consider:

Leadership development or rotational programs – entry-level programs that allow employees to rotate through different areas of the organization, usually 1–2 years.
Entry-level research assistant or associate roles in biotech startups or big pharmaceutical companies
Positions in academic labs or research hospitals (e.g. clinical research assistant)
Life sciences consulting, which often has earlier recruiting timelines (i.e. summer, early fall)

Explore job boards like BioSpace and check Crimson Careers for postings. Networking is key—reach out to faculty, alumni, and peers to uncover opportunities.

For the latest trends and job outlooks, check out the 2024 MassBioEd Life Sciences Employment Outlook.

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