We spoke with Dr Shalabh Gupta about navigating biotechnology careers and the skills needed to stay afloat.
According to Dr Shalabh Gupta, the CEO of biotechnology research facility Unicycive Therapeutics, the biotech industry has seen some dramatic shifts, with present-day innovations that would have been inconceivable just 20 years ago.
The rise of small-molecule drug manufacturing, increased efficiency and accessibility and strategic outsourcing have enabled biotech organisations to streamline their work and really focus on core goals.
“The skillset within the industry is also rapidly evolving,” explained Gupta. “More professionals today have experience working across both small and large companies, helping accelerate advancements in biotech. Additionally, more organisations are now available to support clinical trials, regulatory needs and commercialisation efforts, making it easier for companies to scale and execute their innovations.”
‘Success isn’t just about having a great idea, it’s about aligning it with market realities and proving its value’
He noted that there has also been an interesting shift in where innovations are coming from. Traditionally, academia was the primary source for breakthroughs in the sector, however, Gupta explained innovation is now emerging from advanced global markets around the world.
“This international perspective has opened the door to new partnerships, investments and cross-border collaborations, creating a more dynamic and competitive marketplace. The continued globalisation of the industry will drive further innovation and emerging markets will play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of biotechnology.”
Staying skilled
With this in mind, there are a number of ways students as well as inexperienced and established professionals can build up their skills for a successful biotechnology career, Gupta said. To have an impact, professionals require a blend of technical expertise, strategic thinking and strong business acumen.
“While having a PhD, or deep scientific knowledge can be valuable, it’s not a strict requirement. What’s essential is understanding the fundamentals of the field you’re working in so you can navigate the complexities of bringing a new therapy to market.
“Developing a new drug is like managing multiple moving parts of a wheel. It requires knowledge across various domains, including clinical development, regulatory affairs, drug development process, market analysis and reimbursement, investor relations and fundraising.”
Biotechnologists, he believes, should prioritise what he has found to be a critical and often overlooked skill and that is an understanding of investors and their process
“Certain areas of biotech attract substantial funding, while others struggle to gain traction. Investors are far more cautious today, prioritising companies with data-backed drug candidates. If you’re working on something outside of current investment trends, it’s not impossible to secure funding, but the challenge becomes significantly greater.
“Since biotechnology is capital-intensive, the reality is that even the most promising innovation can stall without investor support. Success isn’t just about having a great idea, it’s about aligning it with market realities and proving its value.”
Education in a changing space
While educational institutions are progressing to adapt the curriculum to a vastly evolving landscape, Gupta is of the opinion that formal education alone is insufficient. Universities and schools provide a foundation, but for career growth professionals should seek out networking opportunities, internship programmes and work that promotes hands-on experience.
He noted you don’t have to be a ‘Jack of all trades’ to upskill, rather, you should make a commitment to continuous learning, equipping yourself with multiple skills over time.
“In biotechnology, for example, professionals need to know enough about various areas, clinical development, regulatory affairs, market strategy and investor relations, to ask the right questions and make informed decisions. Even if someone isn’t a policy expert, they need to understand enough to navigate critical discussions and contribute meaningfully.
“Developing a diverse skillset is also crucial, especially given how rapidly the industry evolves. Success in biotech, or any field, requires an ongoing commitment to learning through formal education, mentorship or real-world experience. Institutions provide a starting point, but it’s up to individuals to take charge of their own growth.”
Additionally, networking and industry events are an ideal resource for professionals who want alternatives to traditional education but still aim to develop specialised skills and advance their careers. “Continuous learning and proactive engagement are key to staying competitive in biotechnology.”
Gupta advises biotech professionals to stop chasing “the next big thing” and instead to find a real issue that can be solved by you, your team and your innovation in a definite timeframe.
“Technology trends are hard to predict but products focusing on real problems will never disappear. If you have found a solution or you are building that solution, you will find investors and excellent team members who are willing to join you and can create something big. You have to enjoy the journey as much as the end goal.”
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