STEM CONNECT Program

In partnership with:

Jan 28, 2026 - March 4, 2026

A career exploration and professional development program connecting UC Davis students with the biotech industry

Register today

STEM connect is a five-week hybrid biotech career accelerator designed to empower UC Davis students exploring pathways in biotech, biopharma, and the broader life sciences ecosystem.

INSIDE THE PROGRAM

  • Curious about where your STEM degree can take you? This virtual speed networking event gives students the chance to engage directly with professionals across a wide range of science and technology fields — biopharma, biotech, ag-tech, data science, sustainability, and more.

    ​Through a seres of small break-out rooms you’ll:

    • ​Explore diverse career pathways and industry roles

    • ​Learn about emerging technologies and real-world applications

    • ​Practice professional networking in a supportive, low-pressure setting

    • ​Build connections that could lead to mentorship, internships, or future opportunities

    ​Whether you’re actively job searching or simply exploring possibilities, this event will help you gain clarity, confidence, and community.

  • Preparing for your next interview? Want to understand what hiring teams are really looking for? Join us for an interactive workshop designed to help students confidently navigate HR interviews across biotech, biopharma, and related industries.

    ​Led by Career Coach & HR Strategist, Amelia Badua, this session will break down:

    • ​The most common HR interview questions — and how to answer them authentically

    • ​What recruiters listen for when evaluating candidates

    • ​How to use storytelling to highlight your strengths and project experience

    • ​Green lights and red flags that can make or break your first impression

    • ​How to align your experience with company values and team needs

    ​You’ll walk away with:
    ✔ A personalized framework for crafting strong interview responses
    ✔ Strategies to communicate your value with confidence
    ✔ Insights directly from hiring managers and talent leaders goes here

  • Aiming for a research, lab, engineering, or tech-focused role? Technical interviews can feel intimidating — but with the right strategies, you can walk in prepared and confident.

    ​This hands-on workshop, hosted by industry professionals from Denali Therapeutics, will equip students with the skills and mindset needed to succeed in technical interviews across biotech, biopharma, and tech sectors.

    ​During the session, you’ll learn how to:

    • ​Break down common technical interview formats and expectations

    • ​Approach problem-solving questions clearly and logically

    • ​Communicate your thought process — even when you’re unsure

    • ​Demonstrate relevant lab, computational, and analytical skills

    • ​Navigate live technical challenges and take-home assessments

    ​You’ll leave with:
    ✔ Increased confidence in showcasing your technical strengths
    ✔ Awareness of what hiring teams evaluate in technical roles
    ✔ Practical tools to stand out as a capable and prepared candidate

  • Curious about where your STEM degree can take you? This virtual speed networking event gives students the chance to engage directly with professionals across a wide range of science and technology fields — biopharma, biotech, ag-tech, data science, sustainability, and more.

    ​Through a seres of small break-out rooms you’ll:

    • ​Explore diverse career pathways and industry roles

    • ​Learn about emerging technologies and real-world applications

    • ​Practice professional networking in a supportive, low-pressure setting

    • ​Build connections that could lead to mentorship, internships, or future opportunities

    ​Whether you’re actively job searching or simply exploring possibilities, this event will help you gain clarity, confidence, and community.

  • This industry visit provides UC Davis students with a behind-the-scenes look at how innovation happens within a leading Bay Area biotech company. Through immersive site tours, professional conversations, and exposure to real-world STEM applications, students will deepen their understanding of workplace culture, career pathways, and the skills required to succeed in biotech.

Schedule of Events

STEM CONNECT FAQ

Round table + q&a

Round table + q&a

Networking sessions

Networking sessions

Seminars & Site Tours

Seminars & Site Tours

What to Expect

Industry-Backed Learning

Gain real-world insights through programs designed with leading biotech companies, ensuring you learn the skills and tools employers actually use.

Career Opportunities

Connect with top employers through projects, company tours, and hiring events that open doors to internships and full-time roles.

Professional Growth

Build your resume, sharpen interview skills, and expand your network with peers and industry professionals across the country.

Comprehensive Support

From start to completion, we guide you every step of the way with workshops, mentorship, and personalized feedback to set you up for success.

Still have questions? View our FAQs below.

STEM Connect FAQ

what our community is saying

“STEM Connect showed me there are so many career paths I never knew existed”

“MelanInScience as an effective and easy way to immerse yourself in STEM fields and get to grow professionally in a welcoming community.”

“The open conversations gave me insight into other areas of STEM and helped solidify my understanding in others.”

“For new graduates like myself, this is an excellent opportunity to explore the many facets of STEM while also gaining up-to-date knowledge about the job market, including employer expectations, industry trends, and emerging opportunities.”

Ready to

KICKSTART

YOUR Biotech CAREER?

register today!