4 Strategies For Overcoming Talent Scarcity In Life Sciences

Life science leader

In an industry centered on developing products to improve the way people live, hiring the right talent is essential for driving those innovations. Yet, as life sciences companies see an influx of funding, rapid growth across pharma, medtech, and diagnostics, and the benefits of a recession-proof industry, there is another major trend employers should be mindful of: talent scarcity.

The significant progress and potential for life sciences companies could be jeopardized, given how challenging it is to find qualified talent to drive their key initiatives. After all, research from Randstad reveals that it takes an average of 105 days to fill a non-executive position in the life sciences sector, accounting for a loss of $500 per day. But it’s not just about filling the traditional roles; employers must also account for new and specialized high-demand skills, like AI, machine learning, and data science, alongside the soft skills required for sales, marketing, and customer experience professionals.

In such a dynamic landscape, it’s no longer enough to be recession-proof; companies also need to make sure they have the teams and talent pipelines are future-proof. And with the vast number of open positions fueled by the Great Resignation, jobseekers have the luxury of being selective in the roles and companies they choose. Fortunately, there are several steps life sciences companies can take to mitigate the risks of talent scarcity, be an employer of choice, and build a highly skilled and engaged workforce.

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Paige Durham

SCbio is pleased to welcome Paige Durham to the team as communications coordinator to creatively and effectively communicate the value of the life science association’s programs and initiatives.

Durham will be responsible for developing and distributing high-quality content across multiple communications channels to build, advance and grow South Carolina’s life sciences industry, a key business sector for economic prosperity for the Palmetto State.

“SCbio is excited to welcome Paige to our team as our new communications coordinator. Paige brings fresh ideas and a strong background in communications that will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our engagement with our audience,” said SCbio President and CEO James Chappell. “We are confident that her skills and experience will be crucial in advancing our communication strategies and supporting our mission.”

Before joining SCbio, Durham was the Membership and Communications Manager at the South Carolina Pharmacy Association (SCPhA), where she used her photography, design and writing skills to create content tailored to pharmacy professionals. Durham’s effective communication skills guaranteed the delivery of brand-specific material that captured the eye of her audience.

During her time at SCPhA, Durham created and edited the Palmetto Pharmacist Journal, using her creative vision to showcase members, educational institutions and industry news. Her communications efforts successfully gained new followers for the organization over the course of a year, increasing brand visibility and promoting the pharmacy profession.

Durham holds a Bachelor of Science in hospitality and tourism management and a Bachelor of Science in business administration from the College of Charleston.

Tamia Sumpter

Tamia is a driven senior undergraduate Bioengineering student currently enrolled at Clemson University. With a strong foundation in her field, she has honed her skills through hands-on experience in research and development at Eli Lilly & Company. During her time in the ADME department, Tamia contributed significantly by working on siRNAs and their applications in finding In Vitro-In Vivo Correlation (IVIVC). Looking ahead, Tamia has set her sights on a promising career in law. She aspires to specialize in Intellectual Property Law, with a particular focus on serving as in-house counsel for leading medical device or pharmaceutical companies. Her enthusiasm for this role is palpable as she prepares to embark on her legal journey! She is also a proud member of the Omicron Phi chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., PEER Mentor for Clemson PEER/WiSE, and currently serves as the President of Clemson Bioengineering Organization (CBO). With her unique blend of scientific knowledge and legal interests, Tamia is poised to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare and life sciences industries.