POSTGRAD CONSULTING PROGRAMME

Companies that are active in the life sciences industry and on the hunt for fresh perspectives, innovative solutions and access to top-tier talent need look no further than the Biopôle Postgrad Consulting Programme.

We offer two main services that are customisable to the needs of each client: technology scouting and scientific evaluation. For each of them, we collaborate with a group of postdoctoral and PhD researchers, who get stuck into the science behind your company or else identify relevant technologies.

These talented young scientists offer a wealth of skills and give you access to the latest research insights in the life sciences. At the same time, by working with you, they gain valuable experience in industry after years in academia.

Due to their busy academic schedules, it’s often hard for researchers to step out of the lab and get experience in the industry sector. But we have tailored the programme to make sure that our postgrad consultants are able to combine consulting with their research.

TECHNOLOGY SCOUTING

Change is a constant. With new technologies constantly surfacing both in academia and in industry, product landscapes and business models must be ready to shift. By staying on top of developments and keeping tabs on potentially disruptive technologies, companies can increase their resilience and iterate their product portfolio.

Our technology scouting consultants identify relevant technologies, compile necessary information and channel it back into the company. They can support the acquisition of relevant technological assets to complement or fill in any gaps in the company’s portfolio. They can also help identify relevant changes in the wider landscape, alongside new opportunities for collaboration, partnerships or licensing.

SCIENTIFIC EVALUATION

All Biopôle-based companies that are selected for the Start-up Fund are eligible for the Investment Readiness Programme, ensuring that promising ventures are built on solid scientific ground. Scientific evaluation by a team of specially selected postgrad consultants is an integral part of this programme.

Working in groups of four to five, the consultants assess the scientific robustness of a company, examining data, technological maturity and the potential for innovation. Supported by the Biopôle SA team and other industry experts, who have developed a proven evaluation method, the consultants provide insights that contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the company’s strengths and weaknesses. All this ensures that programme participants are ready to seize investment opportunities.

BECOME A CONSULTANT

Our initiative represents a unique, mutually beneficial opportunity: PhD-level and postdoctoral researchers provide valuable services to clients while gaining real-world business experience and building a portfolio to showcase to future employers. Consultants are occasionally required to attend in-person on-site meetings at Biopôle, but most of the work can be done remotely.

As a consultant, you will:

  • receive a certificate of participation – a valuable addition to your CV when transitioning into the life sciences industry
  • gain insights into the industry after years in academia
  • demonstrate your ability to work in small, multidisciplinary teams on real-world projects
  • leverage your scientific expertise while also developing project management and critical thinking skills
  • connect with professionals across the life sciences sector, expanding your network and accessing a range of career opportunities
  • become part of the Biopôle community, with invitations to on-site events – offering even more opportunities to engage with both peers and potential employers
  • work on projects that will fill around 5% of your weekly working hours, allowing you to balance your academic commitments with industry experience
  • access guidance from experienced innovation managers in the Biopôle SA team, facilitating meaningful learning and professional growth
  • receive financial compensation for your consulting work

Join the programme to bridge the gap between academia and industry and make an impact in the life sciences sector. To receive updates about open positions, sign up to our careers newsletter.