Biotech Beat

In this episode you’ll meet Nick Vaquera, a community college alum now working at Eikon Therapeutics. Nick shares his journey into the biotech industry, detailing his initial struggles in education, his military background, and how he found his passion for biotech. He discusses his role at Eikon Therapeutics, the importance of collaboration in the workplace, and the opportunities for growth within the biotech field. Nick also shares technician salaries and benefits in the industry, as gives advice for those looking to transition into biotech careers.

Takeaways

• Nick's journey into biotech began with a summer chemistry class.

• Hands-on experiments sparked Nick's interest in biotechnology.

• Collaboration among different disciplines is crucial in biotech.

• Nick emphasizes the importance of mentorship in the workplace.

• The biotech industry offers various opportunities for career growth.

• Compensation in biotech can vary widely based on experience and role.

• Overcoming barriers in math and working with computers was essential for Nick's success.

• Nick encourages aspiring biotech professionals to put in the work. 

In this episode of the BioBeat Biotech Beat podcast, Colby shares how he became a Field Application Scientist at Singular Genomics. He discusses his early interest in science, the importance of community college in shaping his career, and the various roles he has held in the biotech industry. Colby emphasizes the significance of hands-on experience, networking, and the need for strong communication skills in the workplace. He also provides advice for aspiring biotech professionals, highlighting the importance of a polished resume and the willingness to stand out in a competitive job market.

Skylar Thomas, an employee at Grifols Therapeutics in Clayton, North Carolina, shares her journey in the biotechnology industry. She discusses her interest in STEM, her decision to work in biotech, and her love for the small-town atmosphere of Clayton. Skylar explains that Grifols is involved in the production and packaging of medicines, including treatments for protein disorders and blood-related conditions. She talks about her previous role as a lab assistant and her current role as a training administrator. Skylar also teaches the BioWorks certificate program at a local high school, where she shares her industry experience with students. She emphasizes the importance of self-exploration and being open-minded when pursuing a career in biotech.

Rachel shares her journey from being interested in nursing to pivoting into biotech. She discusses her experiences working at BABEC and Twist Bioscience, and how they prepared her for her current role at Thermo Fisher Scientific. Rachel emphasizes the importance of soft skills in the biotech industry and offers advice for students and career transitioners. She also highlights the financial stability and personal growth she has experienced in her biotech career.

Ryan, an employee at Agilent Technologies, shares his journey in the biotechnology industry. He initially became interested in biotech through his work with nanotechnology and alternative protein sources. Ryan describes his role as a global logistics project manager at Agilent and discusses the importance of document control and compliance in the biotech world. He emphasizes the opportunities for professional development and growth within the company. Ryan advises current students and career changers interested in biotech to pursue their passion and not be afraid to reach out to others for support and guidance.

Takeaways:

Camille shares her journey from a career in early education to working in the biotech industry. She took a 12-week certification program in biotechnology, which led her to pursue a degree in bioprocess technology. Through networking, she was able to secure a job at Novo Nordisk before completing her degree. Camille now teaches bioprocess technology and the Biowork class at Johnston Community College. She emphasizes the opportunities and benefits available in the biotech industry, including tuition reimbursement and a good work-life balance. Camille encourages students and career changers to not be afraid and to pursue their goals in biotech.

The Biotech Beat Podcast is brought to you by the Alumni and Industry Engagement Project through financial support from the National Science Foundation's Advanced Technological Education grant program DUE ATE #2202011.

Opinions expressed on this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the National Science Foundation.