The Department of Biological Sciences organized its first Biotechnology Networking event on 14 March 2023, with the theme of career development and industry readiness. Held at the Shaw Foundation Alumni House, attendees had the chance to connect with representatives from Singapore’s biotech industry, gain insights into professional development, understand the strategies for a successful career, and receive advice on transitioning from academia to industry.

Our Head of Department, Professor Yu Hao gave the opening address and welcomed our students to, what we hope can be, a yearly affair.

The Dean of the Faculty of Science, Professor Sun Yeneng, also graced the event with his presence and gave a heartfelt welcome speech, wishing the graduate programs and the event a success. 

The event invited five esteemed speakers who discussed critical topics like career pathways, skills development and transfer, and the future of the biotech sector. The speakers shared their insights and experiences, highlighting the advancements in biotechnology, particularly in the local scene and the opportunities available to students.

The first speaker, Dr Sampath Kumar (NUS alumni), Senior Director, Head of Cell Line Development and Biotherapeutics Process Development from Takeda Pharmaceuticals International (USA), spoke about his 21-year career in the biopharmaceutical industry, spanning various companies. Dr Kumar also shared about what spurred him to enter the field of biotechnology from academia, elaborating on his decision-making process during the multiple crossroads in his life where he had to choose between one with more stability or to take the road less travelled. 

Dr Wong Han Teng, Chief of Staff and Associate Director of R&D at GDMC, shared his experience in working at a start-up company, along with his transition from academia to the start-up industry. Even though Dr Wong was unable to join us in-person, his sharing was still an eye-opening segment for students who are interested in seeking a career in start-ups. 

The third speaker, Mr Yan Guo, Channel Manager at VAZYME, shared his journey into the field of biotechnology after receiving his Master’s degree in Plant Pathology. Mr Guo discussed his best tips for a successful career and transition, and his key personal development skills needed to excel in the industry.

Dr An Shu-Wen (NUS alumni), currently Product Manager at Cytiva supporting the ASEAN region is our fourth speaker of the event. She discussed how she shifted her career focus as a research fellow in IMCB to taking up a position in the industry. She shares about how she leverages her knowledge and research skills acquired during her time in academia and applying them effectively in her industry roles. Dr An also helped our students understand about the history of Cytiva and how it has become a global provider of the technologies in the manufacture of therapeutics. 

Dr Tang Yew Chung (NUS alumni) is the Vice President of Medical Affairs and Head of Early Detection at MiRXES. Dr Tang shared about how his passion for and experience in science communication has advanced his career. Dr Tang talked about seizing the opportunities presented to him and applying the transferable skills from the previous positions and capitalizing on them for the new roles. He has also contributed immensely to MiRXES global presence during the height of COVID-19. With his expansion of roles within the company, the start-up is on its way to transitioning into a sustainable SME. 

Finally, the event concluded with a panel discussion with the theme of “Transitioning into the biotech industry: challenges and opportunities”. The discussion was moderated by our faculty members, Professor Greg Tucker-Kellogg and Associate Professor Cynthia He. The speakers delved into their values that have guided them in their career path and also personal advice to students who are considering their future between academia and industry. 

Our students also had various opportunities to interact with the speakers and learn about the workings of a career in the industry. Everyone was proactive approaching the speakers and to establish a connection with the company representatives. 

The event provided valuable insights into the biotechnology industry and ample networking opportunities for students to connect with representatives from the Singapore biotech industry. Organized and sponsored by the NUS MSc in Biotechnology in the Department of Biological Sciences, the event was an informative and valuable experience for any student interested in pursuing a career in biotechnology.

With the success of this event, we hope that we will be able to make this an annual event to establish meaningful connections with our NUS alumni and industry experts.