Moving from academia to biotech requires scientists to apply their expertise in a different environment. In this episode of The Emerging Biotech Leader podcast, Kim Kushner and Mattia Calissano, VP Medical at SSI Strategy, discuss moving from academic research into drug development, collaborating effectively, communicating scientific evidence to investors and adapting to the commercial realities of biotech.

In Brief

How can scientists successfully transition from academia to biotech?

Scientific expertise provides a strong foundation, but succeeding in biotech requires more than technical knowledge. Curiosity, critical thinking and collaboration are important, as is the ability to adapt and communicate scientific ideas clearly.

Mattia brings first-hand experience to the conversation, with over 10 years in academia. He spent nearly five years at the MHRA as a Medical Assessor working in pharmacovigilance and benefit-risk assessment, and then moved to Orchard Therapeutics where he progressed through drug safety/PV roles to Head of Pharmacovigilance.

Drawing on that journey, Mattia reflects on how academia and industry differ and how scientists can apply their existing skills in a new environment.

For biotech leaders, this raises another question: what should they look for when hiring someone directly from academia? Mattia points to strong scientific understanding, an openness to learning and a willingness to step outside their comfort zone.

What you’ll learn:

• How scientists can make the transition from academia to biotech
• Which academic skills can provide a strong foundation for working in biotech
• Why curiosity, adaptability and collaboration matter in biotech leadership
• How the scientific and commercial contexts of academia and biotech differ
• What biotech leaders can look for when hiring scientists directly from academia

Listen to the full episode to hear Mattia’s perspective on moving from academia into biotech, developing as a scientific leader and recognising the qualities that help scientists succeed in the biotech industry.