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Women in Biotech

Women in Biotech is a vibrant network that aims to improve the underrepresentation of women at senior levels in the biotech sector, offering in-person events, an online forum, a range of guidance and a recently launched mentoring programme.

Connect. Support. Inspire

According to the BIA's Diversity and Inclusion in UK Biotech report, there are significant diversity gaps as women make up only 32% of senior executives and 26% of chief executives in biotech. Gender balance is also skewed in scientific posts: women account for 35% of biomanufacturing and engineering roles and 30% in digital and computational occupations. Recognising the gaps is crucial because it helps our sector remain committed to addressing them and making meaningful change. 

BIA is taking concrete steps to support member companies in advancing diversity and inclusion in their own organisations. For start-ups and SMEs in particular, it can be challenging to find outlets through which people can broaden and develop their knowledge of the sector, and connect with peers and potential mentors. Initiatives like BIA’s Women in Biotech Mentoring programme aims to tackle this underrepresentation.

I have found the Women In Biotech mentoring programme to be extremely rewarding. My interactions with my brilliant mentee are hugely enjoyable and energising, I am grateful for the opportunity to support women in our industry in an impactful way, plus I am learning more as I look to crystallise and share the most valuable experience and skills from my career to date.

SHELLEY COOK DPHIL

COO , M:M BIO

I highly recommend the Women In Biotech Mentoring Programme to others within the biotech community. Many highly experienced women are working in cutting-edge drug development and shaping the future with life-changing medicines for all. It makes perfect sense to bring these professionals together to share knowledge in a supportive environment.

HILARY BIRRELL

HEAD OF CLINICAL OPERATIONS , VASODYNAMICS

I’d definitely recommend participating in the Women In Biotech Mentoring programme. I was drawn to this opportunity to connect with a female leader in the industry and gain advice and perspective on my career and personal development.

ALEX GAJDOSOVA

INVESTMENT ANALYST , 4BIO CAPITAL

I recommend the Women in Biotech mentoring programme, and I am eager to maintain my involvement in the future. The programme especially stands out if you have a clear understanding of the support you are seeking or have specific questions in mind that you are grappling with. In my case, the programme has introduced me to a mentor with invaluable perspectives that have enriched my approach.

ALICIA SHOWERING

CEO , BUGBIOME

Upcoming Women in Biotech events

 

Inspiring the next generation of women in STEM

Through the Women In Biotech network, we share resources and provide learning opportunities as other women share insights and their experiences. Blogs include personal experiences of participants of the Women In Biotech Mentoring Programme and beyond. 

Articles about BIA Women in Biotech mentoring programme

Helen and Kathryn's experience Women In Biotech Mentoring Programme: Alex's and Claire's experience Inspiring the next generation of female leaders: Claire Thompson Women In Biotech Mentoring Programme: mentee experience - Hilary Birrell Spearheading leadership development as a woman in STEM: Hélène​​​​​​​ Trottin National Apprenticeship Week: Lara's journey to gaining 'Skills for Life'

Celebrating diversity and inclusion in the innovative life sciences and biotech industry in the UK

In this interview, Dr Carolyn Porter, CEO, CytoSeek, speaks about her connection with BIA, the impact BIA had on her career and organisation, as well as some of the key achievements of BIA.

In this interview, Priya Mande, former Interim CEO, PsiOxus, speaks about the influence BIA had on her career and the life sciences industry, as well as the benefits of being a BIA member. 

 

Melissa Strange, Chief Financial Officer, Brainomix speaks on being the Vice-Chair of the BIA Finance and Tax Advisory Committee (FTAC) and BIA's work to amplify biotechs and life science companies.  

Barbara Domayne-Hayman, Entrepreneur-in-residence at Francis Crick Institute and CBO, Autifony Therapeutics talks about the importance of nurturing the next generation of biotech leaders.

Dr Carolyn Porter, CEO, CytoSeek, speaks about her connection with BIA, the impact BIA had on her career and organisation, as well as some of the key achievements of BIA.

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Women in Biotech mentoring scheme

The second cohort of Women in Biotech Mentoring programme is now closed.

Whether you are in the early stages of your career or C-suite level, this this programme will connect, support and inspire the incredible women across the biotech and life sciences sector. 

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Welcome to the new BIA site!

BIA are excited to announce the soft launch of our new website!

Our team is diligently working behind the scenes to enhance your browsing experience and provide you with valuable content. During this phase, you may encounter sections that are still under construction. We kindly ask for your patience as we finalise everything.

Thank you for visiting, and we thank you for your continuous support towards BIA.