ICYMI: PhRMA’s 4th Annual Pathways to Success: Virtual STEM Career Expo

This year’s Pathways to Success: Virtual STEM Career Expo had a tremendous turn-out, attracting over 2,300 registrants. With an emphasis on diversifying the STEM talent pipeline and highlighting the variety of career paths in the biopharmaceutical industry, the event featured a compelling panel discussion with research and data science professionals, as well as informational sessions and one-on-one meetings with recruiters from ten of PhRMA’s member companies: Bristol Myers Squibb, Genentech, Gilead, GSK, Eli Lilly, Lundbeck, Merck, Otsuka, Pfizer and Takeda. Attendees ranging from undergraduates to PhD students were given valuable insights into internship, fellowship and early career opportunities in the biopharmaceutical industry.

We were also excited to feature a dynamic interview with PhRMA’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Michael Ybarra, who shared his career journey, emphasizing the industry’s commitment to patients and the important role that STEM professionals play in the continued research and innovation of life-saving medicines and treatments.

PhRMA was also honored to have six grant recipients join us at the career expo. The Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD), the Center for Healthcare Innovation, the Society for the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS), Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), the University of Virginia Career Center and Young Black Pharma (YBP) shared their missions and the significant impact of their work in the STEM field. PhRMA proudly partners with these organizations to support their professional development initiatives, providing students and professionals from underrepresented communities with opportunities to advance their careers.

The Pathways to Success: Virtual STEM Career Expo was a wonderful opportunity to highlight the vast array of career paths in the biopharmaceutical industry and emphasize the crucial role of diversity in fostering scientific innovation. We are excited to continue this tradition of providing access to career opportunities through this completely free and virtual event to inspire the next generation of talent. PhRMA’s next Virtual STEM Career Expo will be held on September 30, 2025.