Biotech Career Coach

Are you walking into biotech panel interviews and talking to every person the same way? That approach can cost you the offer, even if your science is solid.

In this episode, Carina Clingman and returning guest Stacey Tannenbaum, PhD break down how to build rapport with each type of interviewer you'll meet on a panel day, from the VP who hasn't read your CV to the peer scientist who feels threatened by what you bring to the table.

In this episode, you'll learn how to:

You keep hearing about AI, but nobody is telling you how it actually fits into a biotech career or a job search. That changes today.

In this episode, Carina sits down with Heather Karner, a bench scientist with a background in RNA biology who works alongside machine learning researchers in the Bay Area. Heather is actively job searching and has quietly become the go-to AI resource for her lab and her network, not because she is a tech expert, but because she started experimenting and never stopped.

Together they share the exact AI use cases...

Are you holding yourself back from biotech roles because you don't check every box on the job description? You're not alone, and it's costing you opportunities.

In this career chat, Carina sits down with Heer Shah, a Scientist in cell and gene therapy at Ensoma, a Boston-based biotech developing precision gene therapies using synthetic viral vectors and gene editing technologies. Heer has over seven years of biotech experience spanning vaccines, AAV, lentiviral vectors, VLPs, and LNPs, with roles at Merck, Intellia Therapeutics, Ring Therapeutics, and Sana Biotechnology. Heer holds a Master's in Biotechnology from Northeastern University, where...

Your technical skills might be perfect, but if you can't present them clearly, you won't get the job. Most scientists treat presentations like data dumps, and it costs them opportunities.

In this episode, I sit down with Stacey Tannenbaum, PhD, a presentation skills consultant with over 25 years as an industry pharmacometrician and leader. Stacey has coached scientists across biotech to move beyond overly technical talks and become visible, credible communicators who actually advance their careers.

What you'll learn:

-Why job talks are completely different from conference presentations (and what hiring managers are really...

January brings fresh biotech hiring budgets, energized hiring managers, and real momentum after a tough 2025. If you've been waiting for the right time to level up your biotech career, this is it.

In this episode, you'll discover:

Networking in biotech doesn’t have to feel awkward or transactional. In this episode, Carina shares how giving first is the simplest way to build authentic biotech networking on LinkedIn that actually leads to stronger relationships and better opportunities.

If you’re an introvert, early-career professional, or making a career change, this is your practical roadmap to connect with confidence.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Biotech networking doesn’t have to feel random. In this video, I’ll walk you through a 28-day biotech networking challenge you can actually stick to.

Perfect for biotech job seekers who want a clear, daily plan to grow their biotech career network in December and beyond.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

-Why December is secretly a powerful month for biotech networking

-How to track your LinkedIn analytics so you know what’s really working

-A simple system to map out target companies, teams, and hiring managers

-How to...

Does your biotech resume pass the six-second test? That's all the time most recruiters spend deciding who gets rejected and who deserves more attention.

In this episode, we show you how to build a resume first page that survives the scan and wins interviews in today's biotech job market.

Carina breaks down exactly what needs to go at the very top of your resume so a busy recruiter can see you meet the bar in just a few seconds. Drawing on real applicant tracking system data and years of biotech recruiting experience, you’ll learn ho...

AI can completely change how you write resumes, cover letters, and networking messages for biotech roles, but only if you use it properly.

In this episode, I show biotech professionals exactly how to use AI to improve applications and outreach without creating generic AI slop.

If you're spending more than 30 minutes tailoring each resume, you're wasting time. And no, you will not be blasting out the same AI-generated resume to every job. In this episode, you'll learn to use AI as a strategic tool to help you think more clearly, present your experience better, and...

Is a hidden LinkedIn setting making you look disorganized to recruiters?

In this episode, I show you the LinkedIn setting that quietly pulls messy CV text into your profile in the LinkedIn Recruiter view, and makes you look less professional than you really are.

If you have carefully curated your LinkedIn profile for job searching, you might be shocked to learn that recruiters often see a completely different version inside LinkedIn Recruiter. In this quick walkthrough, I show you exactly what is happening and how to switch it off.

In this episode you...

Most biotech professionals dread networking because it feels like cold calling, pushy, or inauthentic. If you've ever avoided reaching out because you didn't want to seem transactional or you felt stuck not knowing how to start a conversation, this episode is for you. Carina breaks down a strategic, human-centered approach to networking that leverages your natural curiosity as a scientist and turns it into your biggest career asset. You'll learn how to reconnect with former colleagues, build targeted networks within companies you want to work for, lead coffee chats that feel comfortable and genuine, and maintain momentum without burning...

Your LinkedIn headline is one of the most valuable pieces of real estate on your profile, but most biotechnology professionals are wasting it. In this episode, Biotech Career Coach Carina Clingman reviews real LinkedIn biotech professional headlines to show you exactly what works and what doesn't. You'll see why leading with job titles or acronyms like "VP at Company X" or "Ex-FDA" falls flat, while headlines that lead with outcomes and value propositions get clicks. Carina breaks down examples in real time, rating them from one to five and explaining what makes headlines like "Helping Molecules Become Medicines" instantly...

Overthinking shows up as research without drafts, resumes that never get sent, and weeks of “planning” with nothing shipped. In this episode, I map out concrete ways to move from thinking to doing without burning out.

We walk through fear types (failure, rejection, judgment, and even success) and simple reframes that keep you moving. You’ll learn how to turn rejection into useful data, set one clear priority each day, and use time blocks and short deadlines so work actually leaves your laptop. We also cover how to pace growth so a bigger role feels sustainable, not scary...

When an interviewer asks about a layoff, a resume gap, or a short stint that didn’t work out, the goal isn’t to defend the past. It’s to show judgment, growth, and readiness for what’s next. In this episode, we walk through a simple narrative framework you can adapt to any uncomfortable situation: set the context briefly, name the decision you made, highlight the skills and results you built during or after the experience, and connect it directly to the role in front of you. You’ll hear examples for gaps, restructurings, performance issues, and culture misalignme...

AI is changing the hiring process, but not in the way most candidates fear. In this podcast episode, Carina breaks down how applicant tracking systems are actually using AI today, why automated resume “fit” scores are often inaccurate for scientific roles, and where simple automations still drive real decisions. You’ll learn what recruiters really do when hundreds of resumes flood in, how Boolean keyword searches work, and why tailoring your resume to the job description still matters more than any gimmick. We also cover the rise of AI-driven follow‑ups and asynchronous video interviews, how to handle bot‑like appli...

This episode is a practical playbook for biotech job seekers and career climbers who want to interview with clarity, energy, and impact. Carina breaks down 25 common mistakes that quietly cost candidates offers, from rambling to over‑indexing on technical detail to skipping metrics. You’ll learn how to answer the actual question asked, thread a positive through‑line across job changes, balance “I” and “we,” and anchor answers with outcomes and numbers. There’s tactical guidance for recruiter screens and onsite loops, including how to read cues to be concise, translate jargon, and prepare questions that reveal culture, expectations, and first‑90‑day...

This week, Carina shows how to turn a short recruiter phone screen into a competitive advantage across the entire hiring process. Learn specific recruiter screen questions that uncover role must-haves, disqualifiers, and success criteria in the first 90 days, plus how to identify the tools, platforms, instrumentation, and assay techniques used by the team. Learn to gauge scope, autonomy, cross-functional collaboration, and culture signals without asking vague questions like “what’s the culture like?”, and use the responses to tailor your resume immediately with the right keywords, skills, and project language. Carina walks through a fast post-call workflow: capture tool names...

In this career chat, I had a fun conversation with Nicole Gampp, Senior Alliance Manager at Compass Therapeutics. Nicole shares her unique, non-linear career journey from research to HR and medical affairs, eventually leading to alliance management. We discuss the intricacies of an Alliance Manager's role, the importance of networking, and career transitions. Nicole emphasizes the significance of finding a mission-driven company and offers insights into work-life balance differences between the US and Abroad, as well as large and small companies. We also cover handling rejections, leveraging transferable skills, the pros and cons of pursuing advanced degrees, and the...

We're revisiting a powerful episode from our earlier catalog because it's a good reminder as we move into the fall job-seeking season. We discuss whether your job search is on the right track by examining key metrics. I give a blueprint for a gold-standard job search, informed by a decade of experience and interviews with thousands of successful candidates in the biotech industry. We review metrics for networking, application-to-interview ratios, interview progression rates, and offer negotiation tactics. By the end of the episode, listeners will understand how to measure their job search effectiveness and address any bottlenecks in the...

This week I’m sharing some exciting news: we’ve officially launched our new community on Skool, and it’s free to join.

I created this space to make job seeking and career development less isolating and more actionable. Inside, you’ll find resources, tools, and a network of peers who understand exactly what you’re going through.

Here’s what’s waiting for you when you join:

This week, I participated in an American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS) panel discussion with Brandon Miller on salary negotiations. We answered audience questions that explored creative strategies for successful negotiations, addressing topics such as counter offers, flexibility beyond base salary, and handling 'best offer' scenarios. We also discussed the importance of understanding the entire compensation package, including stock and equity considerations, as well as maintaining regular feedback with managers. Brandon and I both offered common negotiation mistakes and effective mindsets to adopt for a successful outcome. For more resources, join our community and access the full webinar on...

This week, join me for our monthly Ask Me Anything event where I address your questions about the biotech job market, effective networking strategies, and making successful career transitions. I discuss the impacts of the NIH and HHS funding uncertainty, tackling employment gaps on resumes, leveraging connections after a bad interview, and which to update first: LinkedIn profile or resume. Additional topics include how to translate academic experience into industry, the importance of career journaling, crafting compelling cover letters, and strategies for starting a biotech company in Michigan. Tune in for practical advice and actionable insights to boost your...

Ready to make 2025 your most organized and productive year yet? In this episode, I'm sharing a powerful Notion template that transformed my own annual planning process. Whether you're a Notion newbie or a seasoned pro, you'll discover:

• A step-by-step system for setting meaningful goals that align with your values

• How to leverage AI prompts for deeper self-reflection and creative problem-solving

• Practical strategies for turning big dreams into manageable quarterly milestones

• A unique approach to accountability through "letters to your future self"

• Smart automation tips using ChatGPT to streamline your planning p...

Happy New Year! In this episode, I take you through my comprehensive strategy for annual career planning. We start by reflecting on achievements from 2024, followed by a journaling exercise where you write letters to your future self for one, three, and five years out. I guide you through breaking down these goals into manageable milestones and mini-milestones, translating them into SMART goals, and then seeking feedback from a mentor or supervisor. Learn about effective time blocking, the importance of community support, and creating systems that seamlessly integrate into your life. Stay tuned for a free Notion template packed with...

This week, listen to our monthly live virtual event, 'Ask Me Anything.' Attendees get insights on how to navigate job applications on LinkedIn, including strategies for contacting hiring managers and effective networking. We discuss tailoring resumes for biotech positions, transitioning from academia to industry, and navigating job market trends. I share tips on increasing energy in Zoom interviews and detecting potential job scams. The Q&A session covers alternative career paths within biotech, the value of work experience versus advanced degrees, and how to communicate relocation willingness on resumes effectively.

In this career chat, I had a fun conversation with Nicole Gampp, Senior Alliance Manager at Compass Therapeutics. Nicole shares her unique, non-linear career journey from research to HR and medical affairs, eventually leading to alliance management. We discuss the intricacies of an Alliance Manager's role, the importance of networking, and career transitions. Nicole emphasizes the significance of finding a mission-driven company and offers insights into work-life balance differences between the US and Abroad, as well as large and small companies. We also cover handling rejections, leveraging transferable skills, the pros and cons of pursuing advanced degrees, and the...

In this episode, I explore 10 common resume mistakes that might be hindering your biotech job search. Drawing from my recent BioSpace column and observations, I offer practical advice on pitfalls to avoid, such as using profile pictures, fancy formatting, and not proofreading. I emphasize the importance of a professional email address and discuss the specific information you should never include. Learn how to stand out with a tidy and impactful resume, whether you're transitioning from academia or making a career shift. Don't miss my tips on effective formatting, using headlines, and hyperlinking publications. Email me at hello@collaboratorycareerhub.com...

In this episode of the Biotech Career Coach Podcast, we revisit an interview with John Doyle, Education Director at the Gloucester Biotechnology Academy, originally conducted for the Building Biotechs podcast. We discuss pathways for individuals with little to no experience to enter the biotech industry, emphasizing the academy's role in re-skilling and transitioning careers through intensive training programs. John tells us about the academy's offerings, including a seven-month training curriculum followed by internships, industry partnerships, and their outreach through middle school programs to inspire young minds. We also highlight the Massachusetts Life Sciences Internship Challenge and the benefits it...

In this episode, I explore the notion of perceived career setbacks, particularly regarding the decision to return to academia after a stint in industry. This topic often arises during coaching sessions where individuals express concerns about the job market and their career trajectories. We discuss recent trends, including market corrections and layoffs, that have impacted employment prospects in biotech. Through real-life stories, I highlight various career paths and the importance of adapting and expanding skill sets. Ultimately, the message is clear: there is no linear career path, and one's career decisions should be personal, aiming to gain new skills...

In this episode, I share highlights from a recent ask me anything event in our community, where I addressed key questions from members about biotech careers, including opportunities for immigrants, tackling interview challenges, job market trends, and strategic job application timing. Join our community ask great questions and learn from others making their way in biotech.

Learn more about the Collaboratory Career Hub community and access our free resources:

Join our Skool Community

Take the Free 7-day Interview Sprint Challenge

Check out our sister podcast: Building Biotechs

Send Carina...

In this episode, I discuss actionable tips from our recent book club read, 'Captivate,' on how to enhance your charisma for job interviews and networking. I'll share key themes and personal strategies for making a strong first impression, even if you're not naturally charismatic. Learn about the importance of setting up your environment, using body language effectively, and engaging others with genuine interest. This episode focuses on the first half of the book, which is relevant to job searches and interviews, but please join our community for the full discussion if you want to learn how to apply...

In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Kyle Huggins, the founder and CEO of Management Mogul. Kyle shares his journey from a rocky start with a liberal arts degree amidst the post-2008 crash to becoming a leader at Deloitte and eventually founding his own company. We explore the importance of developing foundational leadership skills such as building rapport, influence, and trust within teams. Kyle emphasizes the importance of mentorship and accountability, and provides insights into his methodology for effective leadership and stress-reducing work strategies. We also discuss his recently launched 'Five Days to Instant Team Trust...

In this episode, I dive deeper into my monthly BioSpace column answers, providing detailed advice on transitioning from academia to biotech, creating impactful industry resumes, and handling team leadership stress. I also discuss how to address pre-planned vacations when starting a new job and announce an exciting new format for next month's session: a live 'Ask Me Anything.'

Sign up for the newsletter at biotechcareercoach.com to join the live session!

Don't miss next week's episode, which features a special guest on early leadership skills and building team trust.

Learn more about...

In this career chat, Christina Guerrier shares her journey from healthcare and biotech to founding her own consulting firm, Protean Insights Partner. Christina discusses her transitions across various roles, from project management to strategy development, and the blend of skills that facilitated her success. She provides valuable insights on networking, the nuances between the healthcare and biotech sectors, and the attributes of a good consultant. The conversation also touches on balancing consulting work with potential full-time opportunities, the potential impact of AI in healthcare, and maintaining continuous business development.

Learn more about...

This week, I am thrilled to share an inspiring conversation with Bruce Wu, whom we’ve interviewed before on our sister podcast 'Building Biotechs.' Bruce has held a series of executive roles, including Chief Legal Officer and Chief People Officer. Bruce has recently started to offer executive coaching to aspiring leaders. In this episode, Bruce shares his philosophies on executive coaching, career advancement, and the importance of finding your North Star. We also discuss his commitment to supporting our community through leadership training and coaching sessions, aiming to help individuals navigate their career trajectories with confidence.

Le...

In this episode, we chat with Surina Sikka, a Program Manager at Moderna, about her unique career journey. Serena begins by discussing her early career as a biochemist and her progression from lab work to program management. She highlights the skills and experiences that facilitated her transition, including a crucial course from MassBio in biotechnology project management. Surina also shares invaluable insight into the day-to-day responsibilities of a program manager and offers tips for those looking to make a similar career shift. Additionally, she recounts her unique experience obtaining a green card, providing actionable advice for those on a...

In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of my office hours session, where I answered questions from our community that were featured in my latest career coach column in Biospace. I discussed how to gain lab experience for a biotech career, handling a bad interview experience, and navigating promotions without salary increases, aks 'Dry' promotions. Tune in to hear practical advice and actionable tips for advancing your biotech career, and let me know if you like this format for some of our future podcast episodes.

Learn more about the Collaboratory Career Hub community and access...

In this insightful live discussion, we explore the career journey of Priya Baraniak, PhD, Chief Business Officer at OrganaBio. Priya shares her unexpected transition from a traditional academic path as a biomedical engineer to strategic positions in growing biotech startups. She discusses the challenges and opportunities she faced, the importance of networking, and balancing multiple responsibilities. Priya also reflects on the emotional experiences of being laid off and having to lay off others.

Learn more about the Collaboratory Career Hub community and access our free resources:

Join our Skool Community

Take the Free 7...

Our monthly career coach column on BioSpace just dropped! This month we discuss strategies for handling multiple job interviews, the importance of keeping an open mind, and pursuing roles that align with your career goals. We also tackle the disappointment of pulled job offers and provide advice on maintaining momentum in your job search. For those seeking career growth, we address handling difficult work environments, the importance of effective communication with managers, and the transition from academia to industry. Join our community to share experiences and find support in your biotech career journey.

Learn more about the...

In this episode, we discuss whether your job search is on the right track by examining key metrics. I give a blueprint for a gold-standard job search, informed by a decade of experience and interviews with numerous successful candidates in the biotech industry. We go over metrics for networking, applications-to-interviews ratios, interview progression rates, and offer negotiation tactics. By the end of the episode, listeners will understand how to measure their job search effectiveness and address any bottlenecks in the process to achieve better outcomes.

Learn more about the Collaboratory Career Hub community and access our free...