Introduction
Hello, my name is Akshay Mavani, and I’m currently a Senior Associate Scientist at Strand Therapeutics, where I specialize in developing gene therapies and RNA-based treatments. My career journey has been an exciting, non-linear path shaped by unexpected opportunities and challenges.
I began my professional life in the automotive industry, where I applied my background in industrial engineering to solve complex problems. However, during the pandemic, I recognized my passion for biotechnology and made a bold career shift to focus on using science to improve human health. This transition was not easy, especially as an international applicant with visa restrictions, but my determination, coupled with a desire to learn, propelled me forward.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working at several prestigious companies, including Thermo Fisher Scientific, Moderna Therapeutics, Tessera Therapeutics, and now Strand Therapeutics. Each role has taught me invaluable lessons in process development, mRNA production, and the critical intersection of science and technology. At Moderna, I had the incredible opportunity to contribute to the development of the mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, a milestone experience that deepened my commitment to the field.
Today, as a Senior Associate Scientist, I focus on advancing gene therapies and optimizing mRNA processes, ensuring they meet scientific and regulatory standards. I’ve learned the importance of adaptability, teamwork, and perseverance in this ever-evolving industry, and I’m passionate about using my experiences to inspire others.
I believe no career path is truly linear, and my adaptability and willingness to embrace new challenges helped me grow professionally. My journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, learning, and finding the courage to take risks when pursuing something you’re passionate about.
Industrial Engineering Fellow
career options
The biotech and pharmaceutical industries offer diverse career opportunities for individuals passionate about scientific innovation and healthcare. Whether you're drawn to research, development, or operations, numerous paths allow you to leverage your skills and contribute to groundbreaking advancements.
Here are some of the key career options available in this field:
Industrial Engineering Fellow
skills
What are the main hard skills you use on a daily basis in your current job?
Early in my career, I discovered the power of Lean methodologies, which focus on eliminating waste in processes to improve efficiency and deliver maximum value. Lean teaches us to identify and remove activities that don’t add value, streamlining workflows and saving time and resources. Alongside Lean, I applied Six Sigma, a data-driven approach that uses statistical tools to reduce errors and variability in processes, ensuring high-quality outcomes every time. These methods help transform complex challenges—whether it’s manufacturing a car part or purifying mRNA—into opportunities for improvement. I still remember my first Design of Experiments (DOE) project at Thermo Fisher. DOE is a structured approach to testing and analyzing multiple factors simultaneously to understand how they impact results. Seeing tangible improvements from small, thoughtful optimizations during that project ignited my deep passion for continuous improvement.
If there’s one skill that has been my compass, it’s data analysis. Tools like JMP, Python, and Minitab allowed me to uncover patterns that weren’t obvious at first glance. During my time at Moderna, I often faced mountains of raw data from mRNA purification processes. It was like solving a puzzle, and the satisfaction of cracking it made me feel like a detective!
Working in biotech requires a strong understanding of cGMP and FDA guidelines. Initially, these regulations felt overwhelming, like navigating a maze with high stakes. But over time, I realized their purpose—ensuring safety and quality. The challenge of balancing innovation with compliance became a source of pride, especially when I worked on the COVID-19 vaccine.
Data analysis skills are crucial in biotechnology and biomedical engineering, allowing for interpreting and extracting insights from complex datasets. Proficiency in statistical analysis, knowledge of data analysis techniques, and familiarity with software and statistical packages commonly used in these fields are essential for effective data analysis.
Writing protocols and reports might not sound glamorous, but it’s a critical skill. The ability to clearly communicate your findings can make or break a project. I remember struggling with my first SOP (Standardised Operating procedure) at Thermo Fisher, but feedback from my mentors helped me grow. Now, I see technical writing as a way to ensure my ideas and innovations leave a lasting legacy.
What are the main soft skills you use on a daily basis in your current job?
My career has been defined by change—switching industries, navigating visa challenges, and finding opportunities in uncertainty. Moving from automotive to biotech felt like jumping into the deep end of an unfamiliar pool. But every challenge taught me to swim faster, and I learned that adaptability isn’t just about survival—it’s about thriving in new environments.
Engineering is problem-solving at its core. During my graduate assistantship, I worked on optimizing defense vehicle reliability—a project that felt like an uphill battle. I learned to break problems into smaller pieces and approach each with curiosity and determination. That mindset helped me later when troubleshooting filtration systems at Tessera or scaling up production at Strand.
Working in biotech has shown me the magic of teamwork. At Moderna, cross-functional collaboration was the norm—I interacted with scientists, quality assurance teams, and logistics experts daily. Every perspective added value, and I realized that the best solutions come from diverse minds working together.
In the fast-paced world of biotech, juggling multiple priorities is a daily reality. Early on, I struggled to balance tight deadlines with long-term goals. Over time, I learned to plan my days meticulously, leaving room for unexpected challenges. Managing time effectively not only boosted my productivity but also reduced stress, making me a better teammate and leader.
Effective communication has been pivotal in my career. Whether it's explaining complex scientific concepts to non-experts, writing clear reports, or coordinating with diverse teams, being able to articulate ideas clearly and listen actively has been crucial. This skill not only helps in managing projects but also in fostering relationships and ensuring everyone is aligned towards common goals.
Akshay
’s personal path
Tell us about your personal journey in
Industrial Engineering Fellow
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Growing up in India, I was drawn to problem-solving and mathematics during my bachelor of science in mechanical engineering; after graduating in 2016 and working on a couple of automobile internships in 2017, I eventually found my calling in industrial engineering, which I started in the winter of 2018 in the US. Over the years, my journey has taken me across automotive, healthcare, and biotech industries, each offering unique lessons and opportunities. In this article, I hope to inspire you to explore the diverse pathways industrial engineering offers, share the skills needed to excel and provide actionable tips for building a successful career.
My journey to securing a role in the biotech and pharmaceutical industry was far from linear, filled with unexpected twists, perseverance, and continuous learning. The job search process can often feel like a long and winding road after graduating with a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering in Winter 2020 from Wayne State University based in Detroit, Michigan, especially when you're just starting to seek my first job in the US. It’s not always as straightforward as we’d like it to be. When I first started looking for a job in the biotech industry, I faced many challenges, including my visa status. As an international student, I had to navigate the complexities of finding a company willing to sponsor my visa, limiting my options. That meant I had to apply to many jobs, not knowing if I’d even get a response. The competition was fierce, and the waiting periods felt like forever.
At first, I didn’t know how to break into biotech. I had a strong background in industrial engineering with a master’s, but my previous experience was primarily in automobile manufacturing. Shifting into biotech was a big challenge, and I had to learn much more quickly. I spent hours researching companies, learning about the latest biotech trends, and tailoring my resume to highlight transferable skills. I used job platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor and also networked through industry events and alumni connections. The volume of applications I sent out was overwhelming, and it often felt discouraging when I didn’t hear back or got rejected after an interview.
I remember applying to countless positions before being interviewed at Thermofisher Scientific. The interview process was a long journey, too—multiple rounds of interviews with technical questions, problem-solving tests, and discussions about my previous work. I didn’t always feel confident, but I kept pushing forward, learning from each interview. Sometimes, I would feel defeated after a rejection, but I told myself that every no was a step closer to the right opportunity. After months of applications, interviews, and rejections, I finally received an offer from Thermofisher, and I was over the moon.
That first job in biotech was a game-changer for me. It gave me the experience to build my credibility in the field. Working at Thermofisher and later at Moderna Therapeutics gave me hands-on experience developing mRNA technology, including chromatography and tangential flow filtration. My roles also allowed me to contribute to necessary research, especially during the pandemic when I worked on the COVID-19 vaccine production. Every job and role along the way taught me something new, and I learned that the journey itself was just as important as the destination.
Later, I moved on to roles at Tessera Therapeutics, focusing more on developing and improving mRNA drudge substance manufacturing processes. I worked on creating from scratch, scaling up, and making the production of mRNA faster and more efficient. I also learned a lot about working with advanced tools and systems that help make research more effective. At Tessera, I was key in optimizing workflows and enhancing data integrity in lab environments. This was a critical step in building my technical expertise, and I saw how much my work contributed to advancing projects that were moving closer to clinical application.
When I secured my current position at Strand Therapeutics, it was a different experience. By then, I had gained enough expertise and confidence in biotech. Still, I faced challenges during the initial days with getting into developing a drug substance therapeutic product manufacturing process from scratch, supporting various cancer diseases to find cures. However, this time, I approached the process with more clarity and a deeper understanding of the field. I focused on showing how my unique experiences could bring value to the company’s ongoing research and development projects. The interview process felt more like a partnership rather than just a test. I wasn’t just looking to land a job but also to align my passions and skills with the company’s vision.
Looking back, perseverance and resilience were vital during my job search. It wasn’t a quick or easy process, but each setback helped me learn more about the industry, my strengths, and what companies were looking for. What kept me going was the belief that my dream job was out there. The toughest moments of my career came during the job search process in the U.S. Securing a position while navigating visa constraints was emotionally and mentally draining. There were times I felt disheartened, but each rejection pushed me to improve and adapt. It taught me that resilience isn’t just about enduring hardships—it’s about finding strength and growth in them.
To students reading this, I want to emphasize that the journey to finding a fulfilling job can be slow and full of obstacles, but it’s worth it. You’ll face challenges and might feel discouraged at times, but keep learning, keep growing, and keep applying. Trust the process, even when it feels uncertain. The right job for you will come, and every experience along the way will shape you into the professional you’re meant to be.
What would you tell your younger you regarding building your current career?
If I could go back and talk to my younger self, I’d say this: Be kinder to yourself. The path to building a meaningful career isn’t a straight line, and that’s okay.
I’d remind myself that every setback is a stepping stone. Those rejections you’re dreading? They’re not a reflection of your worth but an opportunity to refine your approach. I would tell myself to lean into the discomfort of learning new things and to embrace the fear of the unknown. Growth always happens outside of your comfort zone.
Above all, I’d emphasize the importance of persistence and curiosity. You don’t have to have all the answers today. Focus on the next step, and trust that the journey will guide you toward the right opportunities.
Final thoughts & tips
To anyone navigating the uncertainties of building a career, know this: your journey is uniquely yours. There’s no single formula for success, and that’s the beauty of it.
Stay curious and open to change. Some of the most rewarding moments in my career came from pivoting into new industries and roles I never imagined for myself. Build relationships—reach out to alumni, attend industry events, and never underestimate the power of a genuine LinkedIn message.
Finally, don’t be afraid of failure. Each misstep is an opportunity to learn and grow. Your resilience, adaptability, and willingness to persevere will be the qualities that set you apart. Trust yourself, and take one step at a time.
Resources to dig in more
BioSpace
BioSpace is a leading online resource for news, job listings, and career opportunities in the biotech, pharma, and life sciences sectors. It is particularly useful for staying up to date with the latest industry developments and for finding job openings.
MassBio
MassBio is a trade organization that connects professionals in the Massachusetts biotech ecosystem. It provides valuable insights into the local biotech industry, job opportunities, networking events, and resources for early-career professionals.
RNA Therapeutics
RNA Therapeutics is a platform dedicated to advancing RNA-based treatments, including mRNA vaccines, gene therapies, and RNA interference (RNAi) technologies. It provides insights into research, industry applications, and resources for students interested in RNA-based medicines.
Institute of Industrial Engineers (IIE)
The Institute of Industrial Engineers (IIE) is a leading organization for students pursuing careers in industrial engineering. It provides educational resources, certifications, and professional development opportunities. The platform offers insights into how industrial engineers can contribute to the biotech and pharmaceutical industries, including process design, operational efficiency, and supply chain optimization. IIE’s resources are valuable for students looking to apply industrial engineering tools in real-world industry settings, with case studies and learning modules designed to enhance their skills.
