Bioengineering & Medical Engineering

Bioengineering & Medical Engineering

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

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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.

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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.

Quality Systems Engineer

Summary: As the Quality Systems Engineer, you will ensure the implementation, maintenance, monitoring, and reporting of designated quality system processes to ensure their sufficiency and continual enhancement in an ISO13485 environment. With a primary focus on nonconformance and Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA) quality systems, this role spearheads and assists in investigations, root cause analyses, corrective actions, and the management of nonconformance and CAPA processes. The ideal candidate possesses a robust background in quality systems, adept problem-solving abilities, and a steadfast commitment to upholding quality standards within the medical device industry. Key Responsibilities: Graphics and Labeling Requirements: Evaluates, edits, and formulates label content according to customer specifications and company protocols. Assumes responsibility for label management and reconciliation processes, ensuring accurate documentation of label application and disposal. Assists Speed to Market teams during product transfers and collaborates with Production teams on product alterations. Updates job jackets, MOM, and related documents to implement product modifications based on reviewed revisions. Reviews and supports the assessment of material non-conformances, ensuring proper segregation, disposition, and corrective actions before material release. Investigates and addresses customer returns, complaints, and support requests regarding product conformity, implementing necessary corrective actions promptly. Review and investigates requested or assigned Corrective Action Requests (CARs) and Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPAs). Supports or conducts compliance audits of Quality System processes, manufacturing areas, and documentation as directed. Presents audit findings to process or area management and company leadership as required. Assists the Quality System Manager in overseeing external audits from customers and regulatory bodies. Manages equipment and gauge calibration resources, ensuring compliance with calibration procedures. Supports the maintenance and control of measurement equipment, conducting periodic inspections for usability and addressing user queries or concerns. Provides support for equipment preventive maintenance scheduling and work standard enforcement. Collaborates with the organization to develop work standards in line with production transfer and improvement initiatives. Facilitates air, water, and surface monitoring for viable and particulate counts, coordinating with external suppliers for cleanroom and HEPA testing. Contributes to Quality objectives relevant to job responsibilities. Undertakes additional duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor. Job Closing Responsibilities: Reviews MOM for customer documentation requirements, excluding references to CoCs. Qualifications: Education and Experience: Bachelor's Degree in Life Sciences or a related technical discipline (e.g., biomedical engineering) or field. Minimum of 5 years of experience in an ISO 13485 environment. Minimum of 5 years of direct experience in nonconformance and CAPA investigation within the medical device industry. Previous experience supporting and facilitating internal and external audits within the medical device field. Certificates, Licenses, Registrations: Certification as a quality auditor or similar industry certification. Benefits: Full-time team members become eligible for benefits starting the first day of the month following 30 days of employment. These include: Health Insurance: High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) with Health Savings Account (HSA) - with an employer contribution of $1,040 annually. High Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) Low Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Basic Life Insurance (Employer-paid) Supplemental Life Insurance Short-term Disability Insurance (Employer-paid) Long-term Disability Insurance 401(k) Plan with a 4% Employer Match Paid Time Off (accrued at 120 hours per year)* 9 Paid Holidays Access to Continuing Education and Seminar Programs Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Fitness Room Access

US$100000 - US$115000 per year
Minneapolis
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Senior Quality Engineer (Development/Production Focused)

Summary: A leading contract manufacturing firm based in Minneapolis, MN, is in search of a Senior Quality Engineer specialized in Development or Production. This role focuses on cultivating a culture of Quality and Continuous Improvement throughout the organization by ensuring adherence to Quality System standards. The company, known for its innovative approach to medical contract manufacturing and expertise in intricate materials transformation for essential components used in diagnostics, wearable technologies, and electronic devices, is specifically seeking candidates with the following qualifications: As Senior Quality Engineer, you will be supporting either or both of the following teams based on assignment: Development Focused Team: Serving as the quality representative within the Customer Focused Team (CFT), ensuring alignment with customer, company, and regulatory requirements. Collaborating with customers, process development engineers, and project managers to translate requirements into actionable process development strategies. Offering on-the-floor quality engineering support during developmental manufacturing phases. Production Focused Team: Acting as the quality representative within the Production Focused Team (PFT), guaranteeing adherence to customer, company, and regulatory standards in manufacturing and process enhancement. Providing on-the-floor quality support to address production issues and ensure proper utilization of process controls. Investigating and resolving customer complaints, nonconformities, and supplier quality issues. Responsibilities encompass, but are not confined to: Adhering to all Quality Management System requisites and company protocols, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and fostering adherence among team members. Fulfilling commitments punctually, demonstrating precision, and maintaining meticulous attention to detail. Staying abreast of relevant medical device regulations (such as FDA QSR, ISO 13485, ISO14971) and associated standards or guidance documents. Collaborating with various departments (Development, Production, Quality, Sales, and Customers) to formulate, document, and execute: Risk assessments (PFMEAs) Quality Plans and Control Plans Production and inspection procedures, including incoming inspection requirements Test method development and validation, gage R&R Equipment installation qualification (equipment IQ/OQ) protocols and reports Process characterization, risk-based process operational and performance qualification (OQ/PQ) protocols and reports Establishment of statistical process controls Facilitating communication with customers and internal stakeholders to ensure timely identification and documentation of potential nonconformities and product issues according to company procedures. Leveraging technical expertise and employing industry-standard Root Cause Analysis methods to address product and process issues, implementing necessary corrections and long-term solutions. Offering proficiency in risk-based sample size determination and statistical data analysis, presenting findings accurately and tailored to the audience. Supporting continuous improvement (CI) and Lean initiatives, potentially leading or sponsoring such endeavors. Spearheading risk assessment activities for new or modified process development projects and reviewing and updating risk assessment documentation. Providing technical expertise across various Quality processes, including supplier management, Material Review Board, Change Control, Calibration, Preventive Maintenance, and Equipment controls. Serving as a subject matter expert during external audits and potentially participating in internal or supplier auditing teams. Undertaking any other relevant duties or special projects as delegated by management. Qualifications: A bachelor's degree in a scientific, engineering, or technical field. A genuine interest and commitment to process improvement. 7+ years of experience, including at least 3 years at the senior level, in the medical device or related manufacturing industries, with direct experience relevant to the job responsibilities. Proficiency in statistical techniques, data management, investigation techniques, and technical writing. Six Sigma Green Belt (or higher) certification is highly desirable. Benefits Offered: Medical Insurance Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Employer-Paid Basic Life Insurance Supplemental Life Insurance Employer-Paid Short-Term Disability Long-Term Disability 401(k) Plan Paid Time Off Paid Holidays

US$86001 - US$125000 per year
Minneapolis
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QARA MAnager

A market leader for non-invasive technology are looking for a QARA Manager to be based at their growing site in Neuchatel. This is an opportunity to join an international fast-paced organisation. They are building out a brand-new division and undergoing huge transformation. On offer are unrivalled future development opportunities, an international working environment, and an attractive compensation package. Responsibilities: Development of the QMS as per Iso13485, 21 CFR 820, MDSAP Deputise to the QMR and PRRC Conduct internal audits and support on external audits Perform root cause analyses and implement CAPAs Preform Risk analyses according to ISO14971 Assist in the compilation of technical documentation for manufactured products Assist in the registration and maintenance of product registration worldwide Requirements: Minimum 4 years in the medical device industry, 2 years of which has to be in quality management Expert knowledge of ISO13485, MDSAP, ISO14971, MDD/MDR (2017/745) Fluency in English Please reach out for more details. Interviews are starting ASAP.

£100000 - £100001 per annum
Neuchâtel
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Process Team Lead

Our client is seeking a Process Team Lead, where you will play a crucial role in overseeing and coordinating activities within the manufacturing process, ensuring efficiency, quality and compliance with regulatory standards. They are a global leader within Medical Devices, with a mission to empower individuals to achieve their fullest health potential and live vibrant lives. With a focus on innovative technologies and a commitment to excellence, they strive to make a lasting impact on health-care worldwide. You will be: Leading a team of manufacturing operators, providing guidance, coaching, and support to ensure team effectiveness and productivity. Oversee day-to-day operations within the manufacturing process, including scheduling, resource allocation, and troubleshooting to meet production targets. Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance process efficiency, quality, and safety. Collaborate cross-functionally with various departments, including Quality Assurance, Engineering, and Maintenance, to address issues and optimize processes. Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and company policies, maintaining a strong focus on quality and safety. You will have: Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related field 4 years of experience in manufacturing operations, preferably within the Medical Device sector. Knowledge of regulatory requirements, including FDA regulations, ISO standards, and cGMP guidelines. Experience with continuous improvement methodologies such as Lean Six Sigma is preferred. If this position sounds of interest, please do not hesitate to reach out for a confidential conversation.

Negotiable
Donegal
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Technical Director

An innovative medical device manufacture based in Neuchâtel is expanding their senior leadership team. They are looking for a Technical Director to join their expanding team, they need an experienced individual to assist in the further development of their non-invasive therapies. The role encompasses all aspects from R&D, quality, regulatory affairs whilst working cross-functionally with all departments. Responsibilities: * Assure all product quality according to the relevant valid directives are placed on the market in a timely manner and in a most cost efficient way * Lead product and production equipment transformation, modification, adaptation and development to constantly improve efficiency and quality * Oversee the design and introduction of production tools, CAD design tasks * Plan, manage and follow-up business objectives, QMS measures and any other task deriving from Management review report * Responsible for product registration / certification / approval, particularly with regard to US (510K, PMA) and Canada (MDL) * Ensure the conformity of products with legal standards and requirements (e.g. EU, USA, China markets) * Handle and negotiate contracts with external suppliers and other partners Requirements: * Bachelor's degree in a relevant field * 10+ years experience within the medical device industry * Proven experience in quality management, regulatory affairs, research and development and medical device manufacturing. * Familiarity with ISO 13485 and other relevant quality standards. * Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. * Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on execution. If interested please reach out with an updated version of your resume.

£150000 - £150001 per annum
England
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Field Service Engineer - Tokyo フィールド サービス エンジニア

Join a forward-thinking and revolutionary company that is changing the landscape of the biotech sector! Our partner, a prominent biomedical firm, is committed to making a significant difference in the realms of biological research and healthcare. Job Title: Field Engineer Location: Tokyo, Japan Responsibilities: Providing exceptional technical support for cutting-edge medical equipment within your designated territory. Take charge of on-site installations, repairs, and maintenance of biotechnology equipment, ensuring seamless operations for our valued customers. Dive deep into troubleshooting issues, delivering solutions that exceed expectations. Foster collaboration with cross-functional teams to drive innovation and excellence in the products and services. Requirements: Proven track record as a Field Service Engineer, demonstrating your ability to thrive in dynamic and fast-paced environments. Deep understanding and experience in the medical device or life sciences industry, showcasing your passion for making a difference in healthcare. Fluent in Japanese (Business-Native level, JLPT N1), with proficiency in English reading and writing. Possess a valid driver's license in Japan. Qualifications: Hold a Bachelor's degree or higher in engineering or a related field バイオテクノロジー業界に革命を起こす革新的かつ画期的な企業に加わりましょう! 私たちのクライアントである大手医療機器会社は、生物学の研究と医学に大きな影響を与えるという使命を担っています。 フィールドエンジニア 勤務地: 東京 責任: 指定地域内で最先端の医療機器に対する優れた技術サポートを提供します。 バイオテクノロジー機器のオンサイト設置、修理、メンテナンスを担当し、大切なお客様のシームレスな運用を保証します。 トラブルシューティングの問題を深く掘り下げて、期待を超えるソリューションを提供します。 部門を超えたチームとのコラボレーションを促進して、製品とサービスの革新と卓越性を推進します。 要件: フィールド サービス エンジニアとしての確かな実績により、ダイナミックでペースの速い環境で成功する能力を実証します。 医療機器またはライフ サイエンス業界に対する深い理解と経験。医療に変化をもたらすことへの情熱を示します。 日本語が流暢で（ビジネスネイティブレベル、JLPT N1）、英語の読み書きに堪能であること。 日本で有効な運転免許証を所持していること。 資格: 工学または関連分野で学士以上の学位を取得していること

Negotiable
Tokyo
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Sales Specialist

Join a vibrant team in the Life Sciences industry, where you will play a pivotal role in driving advancements in human health. Our client is a global leader in biotechnology, dedicated to providing cutting-edge solutions that span from fundamental biological research to groundbreaking vaccines and medications. Job Description: Engage in the sales of products to pharmaceutical companies. Manage key customer relationships. Meet customer needs and ensure the renewal of contracts. Evaluate products and formulate proposals. Key Requirements: Demonstrated 5+ years of sales experience. Fluent in Japanese. Proficiency in English (writing and reading). Understanding of Good Manufacturing Practices in regulated environments. Customer-focused, growth mindset, and a driven problem-solver. Background and interest in the life sciences industry (preferred).

Negotiable
Japan
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Field Service Engineer

バイオテクノロジー業界に革命を起こす革新的かつ画期的な企業に加わりましょう! 私たちのクライアントである大手医療機器会社は、生物学の研究と医学に大きな影響を与えるという使命を担っています。 フィールドエンジニア 勤務地: 東京 / 大阪 責任: 指定地域内で最先端の医療機器に対する優れた技術サポートを提供します。 バイオテクノロジー機器のオンサイト設置、修理、メンテナンスを担当し、大切なお客様のシームレスな運用を保証します。 トラブルシューティングの問題を深く掘り下げて、期待を超えるソリューションを提供します。 部門を超えたチームとのコラボレーションを促進して、製品とサービスの革新と卓越性を推進します。 要件: フィールド サービス エンジニアとしての確かな実績により、ダイナミックでペースの速い環境で成功する能力を実証します。 医療機器またはライフ サイエンス業界に対する深い理解と経験。医療に変化をもたらすことへの情熱を示します。 日本語が流暢で（ビジネスネイティブレベル、JLPT N1）、英語の読み書きに堪能であること。 日本で有効な運転免許証を所持していること。 資格: 工学または関連分野で学士以上の学位を取得していること Join an innovative and groundbreaking company that is revolutionizing the biotech industry! Our client, a leading medical device company, is on a mission to make a profound impact on biological research and medicine. Job Title: Field Engineer Location: Tokyo or Osaka, Japan Responsibilities: Providing exceptional technical support for cutting-edge medical equipment within your designated territory. Take charge of on-site installations, repairs, and maintenance of biotechnology equipment, ensuring seamless operations for our valued customers. Dive deep into troubleshooting issues, delivering solutions that exceed expectations. Foster collaboration with cross-functional teams to drive innovation and excellence in the products and services. Requirements: Proven track record as a Field Service Engineer, demonstrating your ability to thrive in dynamic and fast-paced environments. Deep understanding and experience in the medical device or life sciences industry, showcasing your passion for making a difference in healthcare. Fluent in Japanese (Business-Native level, JLPT N1), with proficiency in English reading and writing. Possess a valid driver's license in Japan. Qualifications: Hold a Bachelor's degree or higher in engineering or a related field

Negotiable
Japan
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Account Manager

Be at the forefront of transforming human health, and join a vibrant team in biotechnology! Our client is a global leader in biotechnology, dedicated to providing cutting-edge solutions that span from fundamental biological research to groundbreaking vaccines and medications. Job Description: Executing Sales and Marketing strategies to meet business goals. Understanding key account needs and identifying potential clients. Manage forecasts, processing orders, and providing post-sales support. Participating in business expansion efforts and strategic positioning in emerging markets. Key Requirements: 3+ years of sales and account management experience in the Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical or Life Science industry. Japanese language (business, native level) - JLPT N1. English language (basic reading and writing). Willingness and ability to travel domestically for work. 当社のクライアントはバイオテクノロジーの世界的リーダーであり、基礎的な生物学研究から画期的なワクチンや治療薬に至る最先端のソリューションの提供に注力しています。 仕事内容： ビジネス目標を達成するために販売およびマーケティング戦略を実行します。 主要なアカウントのニーズを理解し、潜在的な顧客を特定します。 予測を管理し、注文を処理し、販売後のサポートを提供します。 新興市場における事業拡大の取り組みと戦略的位置付けに参加します。 主な要件: バイオテクノロジー、製薬、またはライフサイエンス業界での 3 年以上の営業経験。 日本語（ビジネス、ネイティブレベル） - JLPT N1。 英語（読み書き）。 仕事のために国内に旅行する意欲と能力。

£9000000 - £9000001 per annum
Japan
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Sales Specialist, Osaka

Join a vibrant team in the Life Sciences industry, where you will play a pivotal role in driving advancements in human health. Our client is a global leader in biotechnology, dedicated to providing cutting-edge solutions that span from fundamental biological research to groundbreaking vaccines and medications. Job Description: Engage in the sales of products and growing the business. Technical subject matter expert in Biopharma products and processes. Evaluate products and formulate proposals. Key Requirements: Demonstrated sales experience. Fluent in Japanese. Proficiency in English (writing and reading). Understanding of Biopharma Filtration products and processes. Customer-focused, growth mindset, and a driven problem-solver.

Negotiable
Japan
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Sales Account Manager

Join an innovative and groundbreaking company that is revolutionizing the biotech industry! Our client, a leading medical device company, is on a mission to make a profound impact on biological research and medicine. Job Title: Sales Account Manager Location: Osaka, Japan Responsibilities: Identify and address the needs of key accounts, seeking out potential clients for various services. Maximize customer results by understanding their needs and coordinating internally. Achieve sales targets by managing opportunities and activities (utilizing Salesforce, etc.). Build strong relationships with clients, from leadership to operational staff, ensuring profitability. Lead large projects, coordinating between clients and internal teams for successful outcomes. Requirements: 3+ years of sales experience. Previous sales experience in pharmaceutical companies is advantageous. Understanding of customer workflows, ability to strategize accordingly. Strong communication skills internally and externally, adept at discerning customer needs. Language proficiency: Fluent in Japanese (JLPT N1 and above) and English. Willingness to travel domestically and internationally. Valid driver's license for regular car. バイオテクノロジー業界に革命を起こす革新的かつ画期的な企業に加わりましょう! 私たちのクライアントである大手医療機器会社は、生物学の研究と医学に大きな影響を与えるという使命を担っています。 役職: セールスアカウントマネージャー 場所: 大阪府 責任: 主要なアカウントのニーズを特定して対応し、さまざまなサービスの潜在的な顧客を探します。 顧客のニーズを理解し、社内で調整することで、顧客の成果を最大化します。 機会と活動の管理（Salesforceの活用など）により、売上目標を達成します。 経営陣から運営スタッフに至るまでクライアントとの強力な関係を構築し、収益性を確保します。 大規模なプロジェクトを主導し、クライアントと社内チームの間で調整を行い、成果を成功に導きます。 要件: 3年以上の販売経験。 製薬会社での営業経験がある方は優遇します。 顧客のワークフローを理解し、それに応じて戦略を立てる能力。 社内外とのコミュニケーション能力が高く、顧客のニーズを的確に汲み取ることができる。 言語能力：日本語（JLPT N1以上）および英語に堪能。 国内・海外旅行への意欲のある方。 普通自動車運転免許証が有効な方。

£9450000 - £9450001 per annum
Osaka
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Field Engineer - Yokohama

バイオテクノロジー業界に革命を起こす革新的かつ画期的な企業に加わりましょう! 私たちのクライアントである大手医療機器会社は、生物学の研究と医学に大きな影響を与えるという使命を担っています。 フィールドエンジニア 勤務地: 横浜, 神奈川 責任: 指定地域内で最先端の医療機器に対する優れた技術サポートを提供します。 バイオテクノロジー機器のオンサイト設置、修理、メンテナンスを担当し、大切なお客様のシームレスな運用を保証します。 トラブルシューティングの問題を深く掘り下げて、期待を超えるソリューションを提供します。 部門を超えたチームとのコラボレーションを促進して、製品とサービスの革新と卓越性を推進します。 要件: フィールド サービス エンジニアとしての確かな実績により、ダイナミックでペースの速い環境で成功する能力を実証します。 医療機器またはライフ サイエンス業界に対する深い理解と経験。医療に変化をもたらすことへの情熱を示します。 日本語が流暢で（ビジネスネイティブレベル、JLPT N1）、英語の読み書きに堪能であること。 日本で有効な運転免許証を所持していること。 資格: 工学または関連分野で学士以上の学位を取得していること Join an innovative and groundbreaking company that is revolutionizing the biotech industry! Our client, a leading medical device company, is on a mission to make a profound impact on biological research and medicine. Job Title: Field Engineer Location: Yokohama, Kanagawa Responsibilities: Providing exceptional technical support for cutting-edge medical equipment within your designated territory. Take charge of on-site installations, repairs, and maintenance of biotechnology equipment, ensuring seamless operations for our valued customers. Dive deep into troubleshooting issues, delivering solutions that exceed expectations. Foster collaboration with cross-functional teams to drive innovation and excellence in the products and services. Requirements: Proven track record as a Field Service Engineer, demonstrating your ability to thrive in dynamic and fast-paced environments. Deep understanding and experience in the medical device or life sciences industry, showcasing your passion for making a difference in healthcare. Fluent in Japanese (Business-Native level, JLPT N1), with proficiency in English reading and writing. Possess a valid driver's license in Japan. Qualifications: Hold a Bachelor's degree or higher in engineering or a related field

Negotiable
Yokohama
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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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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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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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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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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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