Dr. Justin Overhulse

Biotech Connection Los Angeles was founded in 2015. Today it has grown into an impactful organization that continues to promote and foster the growth of Los Angeles as a biotech hub. BCLA has grown to include a network of over 8000 students and professionals, established a Consulting team, and produces the podcast Inside Biotech. To celebrate a decade of educating, connecting, and inspiring, we are checking in with previous Presidents of BCLA to ask them about their time in leadership and their perspective on BCLA’s impact in Los Angeles. 

This week, we interviewed Justin Overhulse, who served as BCLA President from 2022 to 2023. Justin earned his PhD from University of Southern California in 2022.  Justin began his time at BCLA in 2018 on the Events team and as Events Lead before transitioning into his time as President. Originally from Ohio, he discovered BCLA via various other members he met in lab and was excited to explore the world of biotech. BCLA was an exciting way to get involved for free and people were “welcoming and friendly both on and off the team.”  

BCLA strives to expand the horizons of graduate students and postdocs to careers beyond academia. “[BCLA] opened my eyes to jobs not on the bench,” Justin says, “You realize you know nothing after grad school,” highlighting the importance of organizations like BCLA to expose students to the hubs and companies of the Southern California biotech world. He also mentioned the importance of good connections and role models, fostered by events, panels and networking that BCLA provides. 

During Justin’s time at BCLA he noted the expansion of both incubators and start-ups in LA, creating the opportunity for BCLA to collaborate with both large and niche groups. One of his favorite events was the 2021 Healthcare Summit, the first in person after the pandemic, which allowed for the networking in a smaller group.  

The continued expansion of biotech in Southern California allows for there to be something for everyone. Justin highlights the aspect of community and teamwork at BCLA. The growth and success of the organization is especially impressive considering it is entirely volunteer based, showing dedication and passion to driving BCLA forward.