Research, Innovation, Patient care, Education / 22.04.2026
First Joint Career Day Brings Science and Industry Together

The Max Delbrück Center’s Career Day, held in cooperation with the operator of the Berlin-Buch Campus, offered young researchers insights into the working world of startups and biotech companies 

April 16 was a packed day for participants in the Max Delbrück Center’s Career Day, titled “Transition Possible – Explore Careers Beyond R&D.” Numerous doctoral students and postdocs gained insights into potential careers outside the academic world.

The event was opened by biologist Lars Dittrich, who works as a science editor at MaiThink X. In the morning, there were virtual presentations across the Helmholtz Association on career paths outside of research. The speakers presented concrete entry-level and development opportunities and shared their experiences of transitioning from science to other professional fields. 

In the afternoon, the Max Delbrück Center and Campus Berlin-Buch GmbH hosted an event at the BerlinBioCube startup center. Here, the Berlin BioScience Academy and the Innovation & Entrepreneurship Department of the Max Delbrück Center presented themselves. This was followed by lab tours at biotech companies and a workshop on the application process.

Pathways into the Biotech and Pharmaceutical Industries

How can you gain in-depth insights into the biotech and pharmaceutical industries without actually working in them? The Berlin BioScience Academy (BBA) offers exactly this opportunity. Its courses cover biotechnological and pharmacological processes, including Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and Good Clinical Practice (GCP). “Anyone considering a move into the industry or wanting to take the leap into a startup will gain an overview of the entire drug development process—from concept to market—in a very short time at the Biotech & Pharma Summer School,” said Dr. Uwe Lohmeier, who heads the BBA. Through its “Talk im Cube” event series, the BBA regularly brings together science and industry, offering panel discussions on topics such as financing strategies, female founders, CROs, and IP strategies in biotechnology. Here, too, participants have an easy opportunity to engage with biotech companies.

At the Max Delbrück Center, the Innovation & Entrepreneurship Department serves as a springboard for careers in spin-offs. Dr. Nevine Shalaby highlighted funding opportunities for future “sciencepreneurs” to develop innovative diagnostic or therapeutic approaches for practical application. The Innovation Office provides support through programs such as BOOST and PreGoBio to validate ideas and their basic feasibility, helps secure funding, offers mentoring, establishes contacts with industry and investors, and proactively supports business development.

How do biotech companies operate? 

Over 50 biotech and medtech companies have set up their business in the BiotechPark Berlin-Buch, including numerous startups. Four of them opened their doors on Career Day to show participants how they work and what their mission is. T-knife, a spin-off of the Max Delbrück Center and Charité, introduced itself as a young biopharmaceutical company developing next-generation T-cell therapies to fight cancer. 
CheckImmune, a spin-off of Charité, provided information about its work as an accredited specialized laboratory that supports the clinical development of new therapeutics through immunological studies, among other activities. 
In the Biosynth laboratories, participants learned about the technologies used to develop and manufacture polymer-based excipients for drug delivery as well as bioconjugate drugs. Last but not least, the FyoniBio team presented its range of contract development and clinical laboratory services.

“There are surprisingly many different companies here,” said one participant, who could well imagine working at one of the biotech firms: “The labs in the BioCube are similar to those at research institutions, and the building feels very spacious, especially thanks to the large shared large common areas with a kitchen.” One of the participants noted with pleasant surprise how diverse the age range of employees in startups can be. Many found it fascinating to learn how the work culture in a startup functions and that the tasks there are different and more varied than in pure scientific research.

How successful is my application?

To wrap up the event, Career Day offered participants the chance to step into the shoes of a hiring manager during a group workshop. Anita Überheim, Head of Human Resources Europe at the global company Eckert & Ziegler SE, had the participants evaluate three anonymized CVs and cover letters and then explained which aspects matter in the selection process. She described how HR professionals proceed, how much time they have to review applications, which skills are important to mention, and what mistakes are common. Finally, the expert conducted a brief mock interview with one of the participants. During the joint evaluation with the audience, she explained how applicants should best communicate and respond. In addition to many helpful tips, a key insight for the young talents was this: It is not always necessary to meet 90 percent of the desired qualifications. What is far more important is that the person fits into the team and has the potential to continue developing.

The joint Career Day was very well received. “We are delighted to have had the opportunity to help organize this event. The Career Day offers concrete insights into the biotech industry and connects young talent with potential employers in the area, which is valuable for everyone involved,” says Dr. Ulrich Scheller, Managing Director of Campus Berlin-Buch GmbH.