Real Talk: Careers in the Life Science Industry - A BCLA x WiB Speed Networking Event

On April 23, 2026, Biotech Connection Los Angeles (BCLA) and Women In Bio - Los Angeles (WiB-LA) brought together a vibrant cross-section of the life sciences community at LA BioSpace for an evening of high-impact speed networking. The event welcomed 30 mentors and 60 mentees, creating an engaging and fast-paced environment designed to spark meaningful conversations across biotech, academia, and industry. From the moment attendees arrived, the energy in the room reflected a shared goal: connection.

This event was made possible thanks to the support of  Howard Xu, Co-founder and Director of LA BioSpace, whose partnership helped bring the community together in such a dynamic setting. The evening began with a presentation from Howard, who introduced LA BioSpace and highlighted the growing momentum of the Los Angeles biotech ecosystem, emphasizing the role of infrastructure and community-building in shaping the region as an emerging hub.

The program then continued with remarks from organizers and community leaders, including a brief presentation from WiB-LA featuring Lauren Bradley, Director in The Jackson Laboratory, who shared insights on career development and the importance of building strong professional networks. Drawing from WiB-LA’s mission, she highlighted the organization’s commitment to supporting women at all stages of their careers in the life sciences, while also reflecting on the growth of the Los Angeles chapter since its launch in 2024. Speakers throughout this segment reinforced the importance of creating accessible pathways for early-career scientists, with BCLA underscoring its role in connecting students and young professionals to industry through education, inspiration, and community-driven programming.

Before transitioning into the speed networking session, René Hubert, Scientific Director of Early Career Talent & Academic Engagement at Amgen, took the stage as the final speaker of the evening. Representing one of BCLA’s core sponsors, Amgen, he set an inspiring and personal tone by reflecting on his own journey as a first-generation college student navigating financial and cultural barriers.

He emphasized that networking is not just helpful but essential, encouraging attendees to “ABN: always be networking” and to actively seek mentors who can provide guidance and support. His advice focused on gaining hands-on experience through internships, embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, identifying one’s unique strengths, and staying grounded in a clear sense of purpose. He also highlighted the strength of the Los Angeles biotech ecosystem, reminding attendees that impactful and fulfilling careers can be built locally.

The heart of the evening was an electrifying speed networking session: a high-energy, fast-paced experience designed to spark as many meaningful connections as possible in a short time. Mentees rotated through mentor stations in small groups, stepping into a series of focused, high-impact conversations that were both efficient and surprisingly personal. In just a few minutes per round, participants were able to ask thoughtful, targeted questions, receive candid and actionable advice, and explore a wide spectrum of career paths, from transitioning out of academia to navigating non-traditional roles and building both technical and transferable skills.

With mentors representing a broad range of sectors across the life sciences industry, each rotation brought a fresh perspective, creating a dynamic rhythm of insights, stories, and real-world experiences. The format fostered a sense of openness and momentum, encouraging attendees to lean into curiosity, challenge assumptions, and engage with confidence. By the end of the session, many participants walked away not only with answers, but with new ideas, expanded networks, and a renewed sense of direction for their career journeys.

Following the rotations, the evening transitioned into open networking, where conversations continued more organically over food and drinks. Attendees had the opportunity to reconnect with mentors, deepen discussions, and expand their networks in a more relaxed setting.

As the event came to a close, the impact of the evening was clear. By bringing together experienced professionals and early-career scientists in an intentional and collaborative setting, BCLA and WiB-LA created a space where knowledge, guidance, and opportunity could be shared freely. The conversations that took place, both structured and spontaneous, highlighted the importance of community in shaping career trajectories and reinforced the growing strength of the Los Angeles biotech ecosystem.

BCLA extends its sincere thanks to everyone who joined us and helped make the evening so engaging and impactful. We are especially grateful to our core sponsors, Amgen, Teknova, LA BioSpace, and Magnify at CNSI, and to our event sponsor, Corning, for their support in making this event possible.