Can we learn about careers in biotech?

Biotech careers is not an emphasis of this course. I’d be happy to talk to you about your specific career goals in an individual appointment. I also co-teach our professional development course BIT 402/502, which has a ton about biotech careers in it.

Do you have any connections with biotechnology companies in the area?

I have some, but not as many as I would like. If there are particular companies or areas of biotech you are interested in, I can try to help you find someone who is networked with the company.

Should I apply for jobs before or after graduating? If so, when?

Depending on what industry you want to go into, you may want to. If you are confident that doing the additional work that is applying for jobs is not going to jeopardize your ability to get good enough grades to graduate, then yes, you should start looking ASAP. When you have interviews, be straightforward about your graduation timeline.

Got any tips on preparing for grad school applications?

Your personal statement is more important than you think it is. This document is the first line evaluation for whether you will be a good fit for the program. Be honest in your statement (no one benefits from a bad fit), but also take great care to cultivate the professional image that you wish to convey about yourself, interests, and reasons for wanting to pursue additional education in your field of interest.