Bioengineering & Medical Engineering

Bioengineering & Medical Engineering

EPM Scientific:

Specialist Talent Partner in Bioengineering & Medical Engineering Recruitment

Medical engineering focuses on applying the principles of engineering to the biological world with an aim to prevent and fight disease and enhance our health. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 5% growth rate in employment for biomedical engineers between 2022 and 2032, which is faster than the average for most occupations. Filling the growing number of positions in this constantly evolving sector can be a long, challenging process. Turn to EPM Scientific, a trusted talent partner of leading companies and promising startups in the life sciences industry. We will find the best candidates and deliver them when your company needs them.

How we can help

EPM Scientific can source and deliver the best bioengineering, medical and life sciences engineering talent. We place the best candidates quickly when you need individuals or teams to run projects, head departments, or otherwise drive your company goals. Investing in top-class technologies and the ongoing development of our talent experts enables us to meet our clients’ needs and contributes to a decade-long reputation for excellence.

Bioengineering and medical engineering talent solutions

EPM Scientific can connect you with sought-after talent and new career opportunities. Our global hubs offer permanent, contract, and multi-hire solutions bespoke to your needs. We will engage with you prior to the talent-sourcing process to ensure we deliver the best candidates. Take advantage of our tailored retained and contingent services and our extensive network of contractors and interim managers, whether you need individuals or teams for time-critical or long-term roles.

EPM Scientific is Phaidon International’s specialist life sciences brand. Our talent sourcing expertise, high-level account management, and value creation services such as sector-specific deep dives and salary guidance, means we can help you source the right candidates for jobs in the medical and life sciences engineering field.


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Benefits of working with us

Experience

We have over a decade’s worth of experience as a leading talent partner in Life Sciences & Pharma.

Network

A vast, global network of the best, in-demand professionals, working with the world’s largest Life Sciences institutions, to take drugs, devices and therapeutic applications through from conception to completion.

Knowledge

Our award-winning talent specialists offer bespoke, tailored guidance on the latest hiring trends and industry news to help you achieve your goals.

Looking to hire?

Engineering Jobs

Medical Engineering offers an array of specialties, such as biomaterials, biomechanics, bioinstrumentation, rehabilitation and systems physiology, and clinical engineering. Among the top roles we help clients fill are Senior Engineers, Senior Software Engineers, and Biomaterials Developers.

Technical Engineer

EPM Scientific is currently supporting a client based in Switzerland, who is searching for an Electrical Engineer, on a 6 month contract basis. Key Responsibilities: Serve as the primary technical interface between the Swiss and Japan sites, ensuring seamless communication and collaboration. Support the design and development of electrical systems, ensuring compliance with local and international standards. Utilize CAD software to create detailed electrical schematics, layouts, and diagrams. Assist in the preparation, review, and management of technical documentation, including specifications, reports, and manuals. Troubleshoot and provide technical support to resolve engineering challenges between the two sites. Collaborate with cross-functional teams (R&D, production, etc.) to ensure smooth project execution and meet deadlines. Ensure adherence to quality and safety standards across all electrical engineering activities. Required Qualifications: Strong technical background in electrical engineering. Proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, EPLAN, or similar). Solid experience in technical documentation and reporting. Fluent in English; and Japanese. Ability to work effectively in a cross-cultural and international environment. Please use the link to apply **Note, only those with the right to work in Switzerland can apply. Permit or Visa sponsorship is not possible**

Negotiable
Switzerland
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Technical Program Lead

**Technical Program Lead - Contract Position in Visp, Switzerland** Are you ready to spearhead a cutting-edge program within the dynamic Bio-Pharmaceutical sector? We're seeking an experienced Senior Technical Program Lead for our esteemed client located in picturesque Visp. This contract role is not just another job; it's a chance to make significant contributions by aligning technical specifications with stringent standards and requirements. Aims to derive cost benefits from OPEX and CAPEX projects, and / or redefining best practice to sustain or improve quality as primary targets. Key Responsibilities: * Coordinate and track the technical specification and standards creation and updates associated to the targeted areas for improvement, this includes guidance documents, procedures and policy where necessary * Collaborate with internal SMEs and standard owners to progress the technical specification and standard review, ensuring alignment with the site's requirements and industry best practices * Supports project teams in resolving technical or specification-related issues by facilitating with technical competence across multiple disciplines, in addition to coordinating and communicating * Provide regular 'Time, Cost, Quality' updates for the program to SteerCo and C-level as requested * Assists in the development of the turnover process including roles and responsibilities, workflows and interfaces * Supports in the coordination of the turnover scope with Engineering, Construction and CQV * Preparation and support of system boundaries for process and non-process systems * Management and direction of Mechanical Completions Walkdowns, including capture of punch items * Punchlist Management * Preparation of Construction Turnover Packages (CTOP) * Processing and preparation of mechanical completion certificates * Receipt and processing of construction dossiers from contractors Desired Skills & Expertise: * Master's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Engineering, Project Management) or equivalent work experience. * Minimum of 10 years of relevant work experience (engineering senior level individual with multi-discipline experience in large investment projects (i.e. Pharma/Biotech industry delivery, concept to commercialization). * Proven experience in project management, in LEAN management or a related role, with a focus on technical specifications and standards review. * Strong understanding of industry best practices and standards applicable to CAPEX projects. * Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify areas of improvement and ensure technical specifications meet desired outcomes. * Effective communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work with cross-functional teams and stakeholders including experience in Change management and C-level communication. * Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills, capable of tracking and monitoring technical specifications throughout the project lifecycle. * Familiarity with project management tools and software is preferred. This opportunity places you at the heart of innovation amidst stunning Swiss landscapes-a perfect blend where professional challenges meet scenic tranquillity. If this high-stakes position excites you, join us on this transformative journey! For further information about this position, please apply with your CV *Please note, only those with the right to work in Switzerland can apply!

Negotiable
Visp
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Turnover Engineer

**Turnover Engineer - Contract Position in Visp, Bio-Pharmaceutical Sector** Are you ready to step into a role that sits at the nexus of engineering and project management within the bio-pharmaceutical industry? We are seeking an experienced Turnover Engineer for our client based in Visp. This contract position offers a unique opportunity to be part of innovative projects where meticulous attention to detail and exceptional coordination skills come together. As a pivotal figure, your responsibilities will include: - Overseeing all mechanical completions - Handling pre-commissioning activities with precision - Coordinating turnover packages efficiently Skills required for this dynamic role involve: * Assists in the development of the turnover process including roles and responsibilities, workflows and interfaces * Supports in the coordination of the turnover scope with Engineering, Construction and CQV * Preparation and support of system boundaries for process and non-process systems * Management and direction of Mechanical Completions Walkdowns, including capture of punch items * Punchlist Management * Preparation of Construction Turnover Packages (CTOP) * Processing and preparation of mechanical completion certificates * Receipt and processing of construction dossiers from contractors Minimum Requirements: * Experience as Turnover Coordinator or Turnover Engineer * Familiarity with VTOP / CTOP, Punch lists * Good communication and organisational skills * Ability to work independently and under pressure * Previous experience in turnover, and with exposure to Commissioning activities. * Good knowledge of MS Office. * Familiarity with CAD software * Bio pharmaceutical knowledge and experience This opening presents itself as more than just another job; it's your chance to play a key role in cutting-edge developments within Switzerland's thriving bio-pharma sector. If you're driven by challenge and excellence on international grounds-your expertise could make all the difference! For further information about this position, please apply with your CV *Please note, only those with the right to work in Switzerland can apply!

Negotiable
Visp
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Business Development Manager

Location: Singapore The company is a global leader in developing, manufacturing, and distributing medical devices for interventional cardiovascular and interventional radiology serving hospitals worldwide with a strong sales and support team. They are currently looking for a Business Development Manager to help to develop and grow the business in Singapore and Malaysia. Responsibilities: Craft business plans, spot growth opportunities, and deliver sales reports. Cultivate customer relationships by connecting with key decision-makers and nurturing relationships to boost market share. Manage new product introductions, participate in key events, and maximize market potential to drive market expansion and product launches. Gather market intelligence by tracking competitors, attending industry events, and providing market insights. Ensure effective reporting and communication by updating product and market analyses, delivering regular reports, and maintaining team communication. Adhere to compliance and policies by following company guidelines and local regulations, and clearly communicating business goals to partner Requirements: Bachelor's degree in Science, Biomedical, or Life Science At least 6 years of experience in medical device sales, ideally in relevant markets Strong communication skills If you are interested, please apply with your CV attached.

Negotiable
Singapore
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Field Service Engineer

Location: Tokyo/Osaka/Kyoto/Hyogo Be part of a life-changing and transformative company! Our client is a leading medical device company in the biotech sector, seeking an experienced Field Engineer to join their team in Japan to undertake life-saving activities in biological research and medicine. Responsibilities: Provide high-quality technical support for medical equipment within assigned territory Conduct on-site installations, repairs and maintenance of equipment Work closely with customers to troubleshoot issues Collaborate with cross-functional teams Qualifications: Bachelor's degree or higher in engineering or related fields Skills: The ideal candidate should have experience in the following: 1. Medical device or life science knowledge and experience 2. Experience working as a Field Service Engineer 3. Ability to speak fluent Japanese. Able to read and write in English. 4. Driving License in Japan If you possess excellent communication skills along with relevant work experience, we encourage you to apply today!

Negotiable
Japan
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Head of Product Development

We are currently supporting a Head of Product Development (m/f/d) / Leiter Produktentwicklung (m/w/d) permanent position for a client based in Germany. Head of Product Development (m/f/d) / Leiter Produktentwicklung: Our client is leader in manufacturing premium implants for eye surgery. Their aim Is to give the human eye the best possible vision. Main Responsibilities of a Head of Product Development: - Management of assigned departments and projects. - Independently organising and managing research and development projects. - Identifying and analysing technological trends. Qualifications necessary for a Head of Product Development: - Strong Leader abilities with a Masters degree in Engineering. - In depth knowledge of regulatory requirements. - Confident communication in English and German. If you are interested in this position, please apply though this advert and we will be in touch with you to discuss next steps.

Negotiable
Germany
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SRA/Associate Scientist, Downstream Process Development

Company: Our client is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing therapeutic antibodies. Function: Purification and Formulation Process Development and Manufacturing Level: Senior Research Associate/Associate Scientist Reporting Manager: Director, Downstream Process Development About the Opportunity: We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Research Associate/Associate Scientist to become an integral member of the Downstream Process Development group. The Downstream Process Development group is responsible for critical drug development functions such as: development of robust downstream processes, technology transfer and scale-up to contract manufacturing facilities, and technical support and overseeing of manufacturing at contract manufacturing facilities. The scope of the position and requirements are described below. Role and Responsibilities: Develop and scale-up robust multi-step purification processes Design and execute drug substance formulation studies Present experimental data in project and group meetings Author technical reports Implement new purification technologies to optimize and streamline processes Transfer and oversee purification process at CMO for GMP manufacturing Review executed batch records from CMO manufacturing Produce material for in-house development Education, Experience and Qualification Requirements: Bachelors or Masters degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry or related scientific field. 4+ years of relevant industry experience for MS and 6+ years for BS level candidates. Core Competencies, Knowledge and Skill Requirements: Experienced in protein purification techniques including column chromatography, standard membrane filtration and Ultrafiltration/Diafiltration Working knowledge of AKTA systems and Unicorn programming Ability to analyze and interpret complexed process data Work independently and proactively with minimal supervision Strong interpersonal skills and excellent oral and written communication skills Ability to travel and perform Person-in-Plant manufacturing oversight at a CMO is preferred Experience working with external manufacturing vendors and partners is preferred

US$88000 - US$118000 per year
San Mateo
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Project Engineer

We are seeking a Project Engineer Join a transformative, large-scale engineering initiative in the biotech industry, focused on advancing cutting-edge production facilities. This high-impact project spans from design through to full operational handover, requiring engineering expertise to bring complex, essential systems to life within a controlled, high-quality environment. As a Project Engineer, you'll have responsibility for specific process and utility areas, playing a crucial role in achieving project milestones. In this role, you'll manage technical oversight, ensure cross-team and partner alignment, and steer your areas from design to qualification and handover. Core Responsibilities: Take full accountability for clearly defined process/utilities areas or engineering packages within the project, as defined in P&IDs and the Project Procurement Plan. Act as the main contact for your designated scope, coordinating between internal stakeholders (Operations, EHS, Plant Engineering) and external partners (contractors, vendors) to maintain project objectives. Review and approve essential engineering documents, including P&IDs, data sheets, specifications, and technical drawings. Participate actively in 3D model reviews to ensure project accuracy. Ensure adherence to rigorous standards and specifications throughout all project phases, particularly focusing on Mechanical, Quality, and EHS requirements. Own the schedule and budget for your scope of work, overseeing technical approvals for Purchase Requests (PRs), Purchase Orders (POs), and Change Requests (CRs). Ensure units and systems under your scope meet necessary regulatory certifications, such as the Pressure Equipment Directive and Machinery Directive. Conduct risk analysis (HAZOP) for your scope and implement necessary mechanical discipline mitigation actions. Oversee construction-related documentation and ensure safety compliance. Lead Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs), mechanical completion walkdowns, and Site Acceptance Tests (SATs) for assigned units. Support commissioning and qualification, resolving any technical issues. What You Bring: Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field. Proven experience in managing complex engineering projects, ideally within manufacturing or biotech. Strong understanding of process engineering, risk analysis, and compliance. Excellent communication skills to collaborate with internal and external teams. Proficiency in English; German is a plus. For further information about this position, please apply with your CV *Please note, only those with the right to work in Switzerland can apply!*

Negotiable
Visp
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Business Development Manager

Location: Singapore The company is a global leader in developing, manufacturing, and distributing medical devices for interventional cardiovascular and interventional radiology serving hospitals worldwide with a strong sales and support team. They are currently looking for a Business Development Manager to help to develop and grow the business in Singapore and Malaysia. Responsibilities: Craft business plans, spot growth opportunities, and deliver sales reports. Cultivate customer relationships by connecting with key decision-makers and nurturing relationships to boost market share. Manage new product introductions, participate in key events, and maximize market potential to drive market expansion and product launches. Gather market intelligence by tracking competitors, attending industry events, and providing market insights. Ensure effective reporting and communication by updating product and market analyses, delivering regular reports, and maintaining team communication. Adhere to compliance and policies by following company guidelines and local regulations, and clearly communicating business goals to partner Requirements: Bachelor's degree in Science, Biomedical, or Life Science At least 6 years of experience in medical device sales, ideally in relevant markets Strong communication skills If you are interested, please apply with your CV attached.

Negotiable
Singapore
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Field Service Engineer

Location: Tokyo/Osaka/Kyoto/Hyogo Be part of a life-changing and transformative company! Our client is a leading medical device company in the biotech sector, seeking an experienced Field Engineer to join their team in Japan to undertake life-saving activities in biological research and medicine. Responsibilities: Provide high-quality technical support for medical equipment within assigned territory Conduct on-site installations, repairs and maintenance of equipment Work closely with customers to troubleshoot issues Collaborate with cross-functional teams Qualifications: Bachelor's degree or higher in engineering or related fields Skills: The ideal candidate should have experience in the following: 1. Medical device or life science knowledge and experience 2. Experience working as a Field Service Engineer 3. Ability to speak fluent Japanese. Able to read and write in English. 4. Driving License in Japan If you possess excellent communication skills along with relevant work experience, we encourage you to apply today!

Negotiable
Japan
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Field Automation Engineer

Location: Tokyo Full time Permanent Responsibilities: Technical Support: Provide support including repair, preventive maintenance, and hands-on assistance with systems automation. Onsite Activities: Install, validate (IQOQ, SAT), maintain, and troubleshoot the systems. Perform site activities as dictated by local managers or scheduling teams. Technical Authority: Act as the go-to person for automation within the service team and offer support at customer sites. Testing and Training: Conduct installation, training, Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT). Resolve mechanical/software issues and perform IQOQ. Communication and Documentation: Communicate effectively, document actions, and provide technical information. Review and update service manuals and procedures. Customer Experience and Professional Development: Enhance customer experience, support factory testing, maintain technical knowledge, keep workplace tidy, and involve in professional development projects. Requirements: Bachelor's degree or higher in software, systems, electronics, or automation engineering, or a related field. At least 5 years' experience in automation within scientific, laboratory, or bioprocess settings. Required electronic and mechanical aptitude. Proficient with Siemens WinCC / Siemens S7, Wonderware / Intouch, Dreamreports, iFIX, Rockwell Studio 5000 / Allen Bradley Micrologix, GAMP5, Salesforce, and Microsoft Office / Power Automate. Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills in both Japanese and English. Familiar with GAMP regulations, US FDA 21 CFR part 11 compliance, CSV requirements, and able to understand automation architecture, IO List, electrical schematics, SDS, HDS, and FDS documents. Detail-oriented, strong problem-solving and analytical skills, self-motivated, able to prioritize and work independently. If you are interested, please apply with your updated CV attached.

Negotiable
Tokyo
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Clinical Application Specialist

Are you an experienced Clinical Application Specialist (m/f/d) passionate about making a difference in the medical technology field? Join a forward-thinking global company specialising in innovative ophthalmology equipment as a Clinical Application Specialist (m/f/d) in South Germany. About the Role: As a Clinical Application Specialist (m/f/d), you will be a key advisor in the operating room, providing expert support to surgeons and OR staff (m/f/d). You'll (m/f/d) be prepared for this dynamic role through structured training programs, both in-person and online, ensuring you (m/f/d) have the technical and clinical expertise needed to succeed. Key Responsibilities: Act as the clinical advisor to surgeons and OR teams, providing real-time support in the operating room Install and maintain ophthalmic devices, ensuring all equipment is OR-ready Provide technical support, maintenance, and repairs for medical equipment in the OR Stay informed on the latest surgical techniques and product innovations Coordinate closely with sales colleagues to meet customer needs Support cross-selling initiatives and report potential sales opportunities Qualifications & Experience: Degree in a technical field, ideally in bio-medical engineering, or equivalent technical training 3-5 years' experience in electrical engineering, mechatronics, or optician fields Proficiency in MS Office and a structured, analytical work approach Fluency in German and English; excellent communication and presentation skills Service-oriented, with a willingness to travel for customer visits What We Offer: This role offers diverse tasks within a supportive and innovative environment, a company car (also for personal use), and a competitive benefits package. You'll work alongside a team dedicated to providing cutting-edge ophthalmology solutions and enhancing patient outcomes worldwide. If you're motivated to make a meaningful impact in medical technology, we'd love to hear from you! Apply Now

Negotiable
Munich
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Engineering News & Insights

Life Sciences Salary Guides of 2023 Image
biometrics

Life Sciences Salary Guides of 2023

Are you aiming to advance your career within the life sciences sector? Are you interested in discovering your competitors‘ offerings for professionals in your field across the APAC region? We are excited to present our new series of Salary Guides for the life sciences industry. These comprehensive reports will furnish you with invaluable insights into the present salary trends in Singapore, China, Australia, South Korea, and Japan.Compiled from the responses of almost 900 life sciences professionals in the APAC region, this is an opportunity you shouldn't overlook. Seize the chance to gain a competitive advantage in the life sciences field, enabling you to make well-informed choices about your career trajectory, compensation, and hiring approaches.

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The Life Sciences Skills Gap: How to Hire Image
management advice

The Life Sciences Skills Gap: How to Hire

​The life sciences industry is rapidly growing, but it is experiencing skills gaps that need to be addressed to allow it to reach its full potential. According to a 2022 life sciences and pharma talent trends report, 33% of C-suite and human capital leaders in the life sciences and pharmaceuticals sector agree that talent scarcity is a major pain point. This problem is widespread, with the UK also suffering a skills shortage that threatens to stall the industry’s trajectory.Skills gaps in digital and computational skills, and industrial, economic, and clinical research are particularly large. However, if phenotypic, genomic, and patient data integration practices can be optimized across the industry, this will support both research and treatment advances in the future.This article shares effective hiring strategies that can help life sciences organizations address skill gaps within their teams and wider business.Understanding the skills gaps in the life sciences industryStatistics from the talent trends report highlight the key skills gaps in the life sciences industry and how they impact key research and development processes. Demand for life sciences products is forecast to grow more rapidly than the global GDP over the coming years, and 45% of the aforementioned talent leaders note that they are looking to hire primarily to avoid talent scarcity from hindering their organizations’ progress. Moreover, the report found that 67% of pharmaceutical and life sciences companies believe that reskilling their current employees is an efficient way to address and mitigate skills gaps. It currently takes 105 days on average to fill a non-executive life sciences position in the US, leading to financial losses of $500 per open role per day, so intentional talent strategies are crucial to setting life sciences businesses on the path to success.Supporting mobility between sectorsSupporting mobility between sectors plays a vital role in closing the skills gaps within the life sciences industry. Enabling professionals to transition across sectors, ranging from Regulatory and Legal Services to Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Engineering, allows life sciences companies to tap into a vast pool of talent. This is also an effective method of sharing intersectional knowledge and developing key skills.Selecting candidates with a diverse range of backgrounds for open roles may also bring more unique perspectives into your organization, thereby driving innovation and helping to meet growing demand. Focus on transferable skillsFocusing on transferable skills is a powerful approach to bridging the skills gap in the life sciences industry. Rather than solely emphasizing sector-specific experience, prioritizing transferable skills enables professionals to adapt and thrive in new roles within the field. The life sciences industry’s talent offers a myriad of transferable skills that can be used to power future growth and innovation. These include analytical skills, leadership and teamwork skills, problem solving, written and oral communication skills, management skills, and scientific peer communication. Additional soft skills to focus on in your talent acquisition strategy include critical thinking, problem solving, and attention to detail.Consider cultural fitSeek out candidates from other industries who align with your organization’s culture, values, and core mission. This alignment promotes employee engagement, retention, and overall job satisfaction, whilst creating a supportive working environment that benefits from a wide range of experiences and perspectives.These candidates should also possess the aforementioned transferable skills, which will help to ensure that they can perform optimally in their new roles without being hindered by common skills gaps.Offer more flexibilityWhile not a priority for all candidates, flexible working arrangements such as remote or hybrid work arrangements are valuable to skilled candidates and may help to give your organization an advantage in the ongoing competition for life sciences talent.Hire top talent with EPM ScientificEPM Scientific is a leading specialist life sciences talent partner, providing you with a wealth of expertise to help you locate the best talent for your life sciences roles globally. Submit a vacancy or request a call back from our team to find the right people to drive your organization forwards.

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How to Ensure Employee Retention in Life Sciences Image
safety-pharmacovigilance

How to Ensure Employee Retention in Life Sciences

​The Pharmaceutical market has expanded considerably in the past two decades, with Pharma revenues totalling $1.42tn in 2021. This has been accompanied by a growing demand for experienced, highly qualified Life Sciences professionals: with more drugs than ever now available, companies require a strong workforce to bring their products to market. The industry has had to deal with an ever-small talent pool as a result, which has been exacerbated by one of the highest employee churn rates, with the Life Sciences and Medical Devices industry alone seeing a 20.6% turnover rate. This is reflected in the results of our Life Sciences survey which revealed that more than 40% of Life Sciences professionals are currently looking for a new role.The COVID-19 pandemic led to a substantial increase in resignations across all industries, as many employees started to re-evaluate their priorities and seek roles that offered flexible remote-work policies. Consequently, companies have found it harder to get the people they need. 47.8 million workers in the U.S. decided to quit their jobs in 2021 – the highest volume of resignations since the Bureau of Labor Statistics began recording this data in 2001. This is equivalent to 3.98 million workers quitting their jobs each month, up from an average of roughly 3m leaving their jobs each month in 2019.Similar trends have been observed in Australia and the UK, where the rate of employed people between 16-64 choosing to switch jobs reached an all-time high of 3.2% between October-December 2021. The resignation rate continued to increase in 2022, with job-to-job resignations in the UK peaking at 442,000 in the second quarter of 2022. In Europe, one in three workers are considering quitting their jobs in the near term, with inadequate compensation and lack of career advancement being cited as the top factors.Why are Life Sciences professionals leaving their roles?The reasons that Life Sciences professionals have for wanting to leave their jobs vary across each industry sector. However, the promise of higher remuneration is invariably the main reason. This is according to findings from our Year in Review, which goes into greater depth about the factors that matter most to Life Sciences professionals when seeking to advance their careers.There are a host of other important factors, however, such as the desire for an improved work-life balance and employees wanting to acquire more new skills that will aid in their professional development. Changes in management can also cause people to want to move jobs, and Life Sciences professionals are increasingly looking for openings that provide flexible working hours and the ability to work from home.How to improve employee retentionThe good news is that there is a wide range of employee retention strategies that you can adopt in your workplace. Let’s take a look at some of the most effective employee retention techniques that you can use to ensure that your employees are satisfied at work and remain highly motivated in their positions, as opposed to looking elsewhere for their big career break.Offer competitive salaries and benefitsDissatisfaction around salary has had a negative impact on talent retention in the Life Sciences sector. As we’ve seen across the board, wanting higher compensation is the top reason for employees wanting to move to jobs; 70% of the R&D professionals that we surveyed within the Pharmacological industry were motivated by the promise of higher compensation at other companies.Paying your team a competitive rate is a simple but effective employee retention strategy that you can use to avoid your workforce shrinking. Our survey results show that the majority of respondents want a pay rise upwards of 10-15% of their current salary, which provides some indication of how much you may need to offer in order to remain competitive. Focus on career developmentYour employees will be far less likely to want to continue working for you long-term if there are few opportunities for advancement – or if their ability to develop their skills is limited. A study by Work Institute found that employees quit in 20% of cases due to career development issues.This highlights the importance of setting clear paths for career progression to give your team the motivation and provide them with long-term goals.Be flexibleOffering flexible working arrangements is a sure-fire way to keep your employees happy. Our Year in Review revealed that the option to work from home is very important to 60% of the industry as a whole. The majority of R&D respondents deemed flexibility as either important or very important, and workers in Pharmacovigilance ranked flexibility higher than salary when asked what is most important when considering a new job.Whilst a lack of flexible working options will not be a deal-breaker for many employees, you will find it far easier to retain your top talent if you grant them greater freedom to work according to their preferences.Build a supportive company cultureThere’s nothing quite like a warm, friendly culture when it comes to getting excellent work out of your employees. It’s also one of the best ways to increase their loyalty to the company.Seeking feedback from employees on a regular basis about how working processes might be improved helps ensure that workers feel that their concerns are being heard and addressed. Providing senior employees with the skills and training that they need to be good managers is also a worthwhile endeavour. Manufacturing professionals regard good leadership as almost as important as salary, according to our Year in Review survey.Promote work-life balanceMore than a third of respondents in our Life Sciences Year in Review report highlighted a poor work-life balance as one of the main reasons for wanting to seek employment in another role. Almost half of the Clinical Pharmacology professionals surveyed cited a need for an improved work-life balance as their main reason for seeking a new position.With higher numbers of professionals re-evaluating their priorities in life in the wake of the COVID pandemic, it’s no wonder that Life Sciences professionals are seeking out positions that allow them to spend more time with their families and friends. Giving your employees more personal time is therefore one of the most effective strategies for employee retention.Offer innovative, up-to-date technologiesFinally, ensure that you have the latest technology in your workplace. Investing in top-of-the-range software, for example, will make it easier for your employees to complete tasks and reduce the errors that are made, thereby increasing company productivity and boosting morale.Employee retention is critical to successThriving companies are characterized by a happy, satisfied workforce and high employee retention rates. Partner with EPM Scientific, a leading executive search firm for the Life Sciences industry, to find out more about how you can implement employee retention strategies that get results. Request a call back and one of our specialist consultants will be in touch. ​

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Benefits of Life Sciences Contract Work Image
Pharmacology

Benefits of Life Sciences Contract Work

According to Statista, 86.5 million people in the United States alone will be freelancing by 2027, which is more than half of the country’s workforce – and this is a trend that’s not limited to the US. In Europe, it’s estimated that there are already 32.3 million freelancers making up 15% of the total labor market.If you’re in the Life Sciences sector, you can enjoy the benefits of contract work. The big question is, would a contract job be the right choice for you? This is an important question especially if you’ve built your career in permanent roles. Consider the benefits of being a contract employee and weigh them up against your own priorities to be better able to make an informed decision.The benefit of higher payHigher pay is one of the benefits of contract work. There’s a misconception that Life Sciences contractors do not earn as much as those in permanent roles, but the reality is that most Life Science companies are often willing to pay contract workers more money.  One of the reasons for this is that those companies do not have to cover health benefits, social security taxes, 401K (retirement) contributions, unemployment compensation, or Medicare for contract workers. They also understand that they need to compensate for the lack of company benefits and a steady income, especially if those contractors have a high level of expertise in their field.Freedom of choiceThe freedom to choose who you work with, where you work, and for how long you work is another of the benefits of contract jobs. As a contractor, you can carefully select the Life Sciences companies you want to work for, and you can choose roles or projects that interest you and avoid those that don’t. In addition, you can select the contracts that best suit you, whether you consider the location in which you will be based or the length of the contract.Gaining broad skills and experienceThe potential to gain much broader skillsets and a wealth of experience is another benefit of contract work in the Life Sciences sector. Making this benefit even more attractive is that you can do this in a relatively short time.As a contractor, you probably will fill a specific role for a variety of Life Sciences companies. By working on different projects in those companies, you will gain insights into and experience in a diversity of systems and workflows, some of which will be unique to specific companies. This is not possible if you remain a permanent employee within one company.Contract work also keeps work experience fresh, as your responsibilities are not likely to become monotonous or repetitive. The continued challenges that come your way are opportunities to diversify your skillset, which will count in your favor as you continue to progress your career through contract jobs. Find the right roleSince 2012, EPM Scientific has placed candidates in their next Life Sciences role, including both contract and permanent positions. Register your resume on our site to access the latest role​s on the Life Sciences job market and find out how we can help you define your next career move.​

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Bioartificial Kidneys and Tissue Engineering: Cyborg Future? Image
engineering

Bioartificial Kidneys and Tissue Engineering: Cyborg Future?

​UCSFs bioartificial kidney is an exciting breakthrough which circumvents the need for tissue-blood supply,using  cyborg-likesilicon chips. In thisarticlewe explore UCSF’s Kidney Project, the latest applications of tissue engineering, and the recruitment trends within the pharma and biotech fields.We have previously discussed how the fields of tissue-engineeringand regenerative medicine are poised to yield market disruptions for biotech and pharma.Recap: What is tissue engineering?Tissue engineering is the synthesis of biological tissues — usually via a combination of a scaffold, stem cells, and growth factors. Like the field of gene therapy, tissue engineering has progressed from early debates overradical sciencetoviable and disruptive product lines.  While regenerative medicine includes therapies to rejuvenate tissues, tissue-engineering seeks to replace tissues with de-novo implants that are either grown from the host or immune tolerant. A number of projects in recent years haveutilisedtissue engineering: In 2016 theLancet reportedthat a Swiss group had taken biopsies of subjects’ nasal cartilage, expanded them in a lab on an electrospun scaffold, then replanted them successfully into full-thickness articular defects in the cartilage of the same subject's knee.  This is a potential therapy for knee osteoarthritis.In 2017scientists from Tokyo Universityreported on the use of implanted nasal cartilage grafts to treat facial defects in adults with cleft-palates. In 2018Science Translational Medicinereported on the use of implanted tissue-engineered spinal discs to treat advanced disc degeneration in rats. The field holds promise for any degenerative disease that impacts irreplaceable tissues, such ascardiac valves,peripheral nerves,spinal cord,amputated limbs, and much more. However, the problem with tissue engineered constructs and a major barrier to evolution in the field has turned out to be relatively simple.  Once any engineered tissue grows beyond a few cell layers, itrequires a nutrient supplyto support itself.  In biological tissues, blood vessels support living cells by bringing nutrients and eliminating wastes.  But when seeking to de-novo engineer a tissue from cartilage, liver, or kidney stem cells blood vessels are an extreme complication — to create them requires creating a second tissue,interspersed with the first, composed ofmultiple cell typesin layers, and highlycomplex to engineer.  The blood vessel problem is a major barrier to innovation in the field of tissue engineering.  Here’s how one team is solving it...The bioartificial kidney and blood vesselsGlobally, between8-16%of people suffer from chronic kidney disease. The dialysis industry was estimated at$40 billionin 2018.  Kidney transplants are themost common organ donationworldwide, and there are greater than100,000 peoplewithend-stagerenal disease in the US waiting for a kidney transplant. Kidneys are composed of highly specialized cells that filter blood to formurine,and are essential for excreting wastes, balancing electrolytes, and maintaining healthy red blood cells. It’s now possible for these tissues can beengineered in the lab, andmany research groupshave made progress in this field. UCSF’s Kidney Project breakthrough One group, Dr. Shuvo Roy’smicroelectricalmechanical labat UCSF, has made an interesting breakthrough, which is relevant beyond just kidneys, to the entire field of tissue engineering.  Many scientists have grown a functional tissue, then implanted it hoping it would vascularize. Or, havegrown blood vessels into a scaffold, then cultured functional cells in theprevascularizedstructure. Dr. Shuvo Roy’sKidney Projectsimply printed a silicon chip that carried nutrient supplies like a dialysis machine, then placed cells in the chip.  Rather than recreating complex biological tissues, they created a silicon chip that supported individual cells.  This is essentially a simple concept, that stands to reverse all of tissue engineering. It’s possible that the best tissue-engineered grafts are not going to recreate biological architecture. On this basis, some believe that the implants of the future will becyborg composites, functional cells living in an artificial matrix. Impact of tissue engineering R&D on pharma and biotech recruitmentWe believe biotech and pharma would be well served to integrate tissue-engineering R&D into their portfolios because the field is poised for breakthroughs, and those breakthroughs are likely to disrupt established clinical markets. Experts in this field are valuable, and recruitment in this industry is at an all-time high.Operating as part of the Phaidon International group, EPM Scientific is a specialist staffing agency, wholly focused on permanent & freelance recruitment within the life sciences sector.  We are designed to enhance the connection between enterprise project management and recruitment services in complex drug & device development endeavors like tissue-engineering and regenerative medicine therapies. At EPM Scientific, we think holistically. We recruit the best talent to ensure superior medicines are available to patients and we believe in the positive evolution of human health.  As we’ve shown with the example of Dr. Shuvo Roy’s research group and the bioartificial kidney, the right perspective, and the right talent can take a complex, unsolvable problem and circumvent it to unlock potential across many disciplines. The right candidate for the right team takes skill and timing.  If you’re a hiring manager in pharma or biotech looking to extend your team with tissue engineering capacities,  or you’re a consultant with this expertise wishing to move into industry.  I’m happy to help you find the right fit.  Please feel free to reach out directly at Contact.Us@epmscientific.com-------------------------EPM Scientific is a leading specialist recruitment agency for the Life Sciences industry. We were founded in 2012 to give companies and candidates peace of mind that the recruitment process is in experts hands. Today, we provide contingency, retained search and project-based contract recruitment from our global hubs in London, Berlin, Switzerland, New York and Chicago.We pride ourselves in keeping our professional network up-to-date with any changes that will shape the future of work or affect the hiring process. Visit our website to discover more invaluable insights, including exclusive research, salary guides and market trends.

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Emerging Markets in Tissue Engineering Image
engineering

Emerging Markets in Tissue Engineering

​Tissue-engineered substrates like Axogen nerve-grafts and 3D-printed hydrogels have penetrated past the hype phase of the Garner hype cycle to the main market.  Tissue-engineering and regenerative medicine are hot topics lately.  While the average person associates these therapies with idealistic sci-fi, the truth is that these therapies have exited controversial trial-and-error experimentation and are beginning to generate viable product lines.  In other words, they have made it past the hype and are beginning to yield.While these two terms are often used interchangeably they are subtly different sciences. Tissue-engineering is a biomaterials field where scaffolds, cells, and growth are combined to synthesize functional tissues which could be implanted in humans. Current innovation in this field is focused on experiments to determine the optimum ratios, substrates, and timelines to grow viable tissues.  This research is less fundamental and more experimental, often occurring in academia.In contrast, regenerative medicine is a broader clinical field which includes tissue-engineering but also therapies to transplant or rejuvenate human tissues in situ.  Many of these therapies are already on the market in some form in the cosmetics or sports injury industries.  This research is more applied and occurs in industry, medicine, and academia. The tissue-engineering industryTissue-engineering is highly desirable because it escapes the ethical, autoimmune, and infectious dilemmas of transplanted tissues. Complex non-antigenic bioimplants could also disrupt more expensive and less effective medical industries like dialysis or prosthetic limbs.The drawback with tissue-engineering has always been complexity. As Einstein is paraphrased as saying “Everything should be made as simple as possible, but no simpler”.  The reason we haven’t had tissue-engineered products in the past, is they are not simple to make. Biological tissues are grown over time, dynamic, and interdependent. As difficult as it is to expand and grow healthy tissue in a lab, viable lab-grown tissues must also be viable in the body.  When tissue is implanted it must be accepted by the immune system, integrate into vascular and lymphatic supplies, and then remodel appropriately with age.  Despite the challenges, several revolutionary tissue-engineered products have been emerging onto the biotech and pharma markets.  Some examples of viable tissue-engineered therapies that are achieving clinical use and widespread scientific acceptance include:Decellularized tissues such as Axogen’s Avance®  nerve grafts marketed for repair of transected or damaged nerves or DermACELL® skin replacements for burnsGrowth factors such as those eluted from Osiris’ Grafix® a placental membrane therapy marketed for the healing of chronic woundsImplanted tissues such as Dr. Ivan Martin’s implanted cartilage grafts for knee arthritisWhat does this mean for recruitment?Novel tissue-engineered products have the potential to replace human tissues previously thought irreplaceable such as nerve, bone, and cartilage.  Additionally,  therapies from tissue-engineering might also yield unexpected breakthroughs in the wider clinical and commercial fields of regenerative medicine.Biotech and pharma would be well served to integrate tissue-engineering R&D into their portfolios because the field is poised for breakthroughs, and those breakthroughs are likely to disrupt established clinical markets. Experts in this field are valuable, and recruitment in this industry is at an all-time high.Operating as part of the Phaidon International group, EPM Scientific is a specialist staffing agency, wholly focused on permanent & freelance recruitment within the life sciences sector.  We are designed to enhance the connection between enterprise project management and recruitment services in complex drug & device development endeavors like tissue-engineering and regenerative medicine therapies. At EPM Scientific, we think holistically. We recruit the best talent to ensure superior medicines are available to patients and we believe in the positive evolution of human health. The right candidate for the right team takes skill and timing.  If you’re a hiring manager in pharma or biotech looking to extend your team with tissue engineering capacities,  or you’re a consultant with this expertise wishing to move into industry.  I’m happy to help you find the right fit.  Please feel free to reach out directly at Contact.Us@epmscientific.com.---------------------------------------------EPM Scientific is a leading specialist recruitment agency for the Life Sciences industry. We were founded in 2012 to give companies and candidates peace of mind that the recruitment process is in experts hands. Today, we provide contingency, retained search and project-based contract recruitment from our global hubs in London, Berlin, Switzerland, New York and Chicago.We pride ourselves in keeping our professional network up-to-date with any changes that will shape the future of work or affect the hiring process. Visit our website to discover more invaluable insights, including exclusive research, salary guides and market trends. ​

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