The biotech industry remains positive—fueled by innovation in therapeutics, diagnostics, and life sciences. But for business professionals hoping to land a role in this cutting-edge space, the interview process can be uniquely challenging.
Unlike interviews in other sectors, biotech employers expect a blend of business acumen and scientific literacy. Whether you’re aiming for a role in business development, product management, marketing, or strategy, understanding the nuances of biotech interviews can give you a clear competitive edge.
In this post, we’ll walk through what to expect, how to prepare, and how to position yourself as a top candidate in the business side of biotech.
Understanding the Biotech Landscape
Before we dive into interview tips, let’s talk about the context.
Biotech companies aren’t your average startups or corporations. They operate at the intersection of science, innovation, and regulation. Even business roles in this industry often require a basic understanding of clinical trials, FDA approval pathways, or scientific partnerships.
Key sectors where business professionals play a role:
- Drug development and commercialization
- Biotech venture capital and investment
- Strategic partnerships and licensing
- Regulatory affairs and operations
- Product marketing and launch strategy
So, it’s not just about business skills—you’re expected to bridge the gap between science and strategy.
The Biotech Interview Process: What to Expect
While every company is different, the interview process in biotech business roles generally follows a structured path:
1. Initial Screening (Phone or Video Call)
This is often with a recruiter or HR rep.
Expect questions like:
- Why biotech?
- Why this company or therapeutic area?
- What’s your understanding of our product pipeline?
Tip: Be ready to talk about the company’s recent developments—like a clinical trial result or partnership announcement.
2. Hiring Manager Interview
Now you’re speaking with the person you’d report to.
What they’re looking for:
- Can you translate complex science into business value?
- How do you manage cross-functional teams (scientists, marketers, legal)?
- Are you familiar with go-to-market strategies for regulated products?
Tip: Come prepared with examples of how you've navigated complex product launches or strategic decisions.
3. Panel or Cross-Functional Interviews
You may meet with R&D leaders, marketing heads, regulatory staff, or finance stakeholders.
They may ask:
- How would you position a pre-approval therapeutic to investors?
- What’s your experience working with KOLs (Key Opinion Leaders)?
- How do you balance scientific integrity with business goals?
Tip: Show empathy for scientific stakeholders. They want a partner, not just a profit-driven executive.
4. Case Study or Presentation (Optional but Common)
Often used for mid-to-senior roles.
Typical tasks:
- Build a go-to-market plan for a hypothetical drug
- Analyze a competitive landscape in oncology
- Present a licensing pitch
Tip: Use clear visuals, and back your arguments with data. Don’t shy away from using scientific terms—but explain them clearly.
5. Final Interview or Executive Round
This may include VPs or C-suite executives.
They’re assessing:
- Strategic thinking
- Cultural fit
- Long-term potential
Tip: Prepare thoughtful questions about the company’s long-term vision, funding strategy, and pipeline priorities.
How to Prepare: Key Tips for Business Candidates in Biotech
1. Learn the Science (At Least the Basics)
You don’t need a PhD—but you should understand the basics of:
- Clinical trial phases (I, II, III)
- Regulatory milestones (IND, NDA, BLA)
- Mechanisms of action for major therapies
Resources: PubMed, BioPharma Dive, company press releases, and scientific podcasts.
2. Tailor Your Resume and Talking Points
Use biotech-relevant language:
- “Marketed a first-in-class biologic in oncology”
- “Led licensing due diligence for an early-stage cell therapy platform”
3. Know the Competitive Landscape
Have a POV on:
- Who the company’s top 3 competitors are
- What differentiates their pipeline or approach
- How market trends (e.g. mRNA, AI in drug discovery) may impact them
4. Emphasize Collaboration Skills
Biotech teams are deeply cross-functional. Your ability to collaborate with scientists, legal teams, and external partners will set you apart.
5. Show Passion for the Mission
Biotech is mission-driven. Whether it’s curing rare diseases or innovating in diagnostics, showing genuine excitement for the science and impact goes a long way.
Final Thoughts
Breaking into or advancing within the biotech industry as a business professional takes more than just business savvy—it requires industry fluency, cross-functional collaboration, and a deep respect for the science.
If you can speak both the language of strategy and the language of science, you’ll set yourself apart in every stage of the interview process.
Need more tips? check out 10 Most Common Job Interview Questions
Or check out the latest listings on biotechbusinessjobs.com—the only platform built for business-side biotech careers.