Business developers in the biotechnology industry direct and find markets
for research. They make sure companies have the money to develop better foods,
crops and medicines.
Obviously biotechnology is important, but the actual research and design
isn't enough. The new ideas must be developed so that the world market knows
about them and can have access to them. That's where biotechnology business
developers come in.
Business developers understand the scientific background of the products
that are being developed. They transmit those ideas to potential customers
and business associates.
"Most of my time is spent evaluating technologies and developing business
around these technologies," says John Christensen. He works for an agricultural
biotechnology organization. "My work includes anything and everything used
to develop a successful business."
A biotechnology business developer creates new business partnerships, looks
after company financing, facilitates joint ventures with other companies and
negotiates.
They're in constant contact with company scientists to cultivate their
ideas and find ways to develop and market them. They usually work for private
industry, large educational institutions or research centers.
The U.S. is a world leader in the field of biotechnology.
As with any job in the biotechnology industry, the hours are long. "I work
a lot more than 40 hours," says biotechnology business developer Ben Sutton.
Biotechnology business development isn't physically strenuous. "It's mostly
mental and communication work," says Christensen. People with handicaps may
have some difficulty when travel is required to visit with clients.