Chicagoland Biotech Trek

Chicagoland Biotech Trek

Trek Dates: December 5-6, 2024

Application Deadline: November 15, 5:00 p.m.

STEM PhD students and postdocs who seek to enter a biotech research career within the next 18 months are invited to apply to myCHOICE’s upcoming Chicagoland Biotech Trek. 10 participants will be selected to participate in 2 days of site visits at a variety of companies across Chicagoland, which is a growing hub for innovative biotech research. Participants will gain new professional contacts and insight into the nuances of Chicago biotech culture. Transportation and lunch will be provided on both days.

Tentative Visit Schedule (Subject to Change)

• Thursday, December 5
  • Natures Fynd
  • Portal Innovations
  • Vanqua Bio
  • CZ Biohub
• Friday, December 6
  • Abbvie
  • Lanzatech

 

Participant Eligibility

PhD students, postdoctoral scientists, and recent alumni (<1 year since departing UChicago) from the BSD, PSD, or PME are eligible to apply. Preference will be given to individuals in their 5th year of training and beyond. Applications from master’s students and first- or second-year PhD students will not be considered.

Expectations of Trek Participants

Selected participants are expected to travel as a group and attend the entirety of the two-day trek. Upon completion of the trek, participants are required to reflect on their experience in a short statement (<500 words).

Application Information

Complete the myCHOICE trek application via GRAD Gargoyle (position #9155534). You will be asked to submit the following documents.

• A current resume
• Cover letters for two positions that are currently open at the host companies listed above. Please include a copy of the job advertisement for the position(s) you are writing the cover letter(s) for.
• A personal statement that addresses your interest in biotech research and how participation in the trek will further your career goals. (2 page max)

Note: The selection process will be competitive. We encourage you to attend the trek application prep session on Friday, November 8th or schedule a 1:1 advising appointment through GRAD Gargoyle to craft an effective application.