Introduction
Hello everyone, my name is Gauri Kulkarni. I embarked on my academic journey in India with a clear vision and passion for the research industry. While my peers aspired to become doctors, I knew that my calling lay in the world of scientific exploration and discovery. This led me to pursue a Bachelor of Engineering in Instrumentation and Control with a major in Biomedical Engineering.
During my undergraduate years, I developed a solid understanding of engineering principles. In my final year, I had the incredible opportunity to work on a project aimed at developing a device to detect Parkinson’s disease. This experience ignited a deep interest in neurodegenerative diseases, propelling me towards a future focused on understanding and finding solutions for these conditions.
To further my education and delve deeper into the field of Biomedical Engineering, I knew that pursuing a Master’s degree was essential. I soon realized that gaining admission to reputable schools in the United States without work experience would be challenging. Determined to acquire practical skills and knowledge, I decided to work for a year in a pharmaceutical company in India. This invaluable experience provided me with hands-on exposure to a wet lab environment and allowed me to work with cutting-edge analytical lab equipment.
In 2018, I made the decision to pursue my Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering in the United States. I was accepted into Binghamton University, where I immersed myself in my studies. With a particular focus on neurodegenerative diseases, I continued my research, eager to contribute to the growing body of knowledge and make a tangible impact in this field. I focused on detecting Alzheimer’s disease using digital biomedical engineering techniques. This research not only deepened my understanding of the field but also exposed me to various programming languages and software tools, enhancing my technical skills.
During my Master’s program, I also had the opportunity to collaborate with a PhD student. This collaboration sparked my initial interest in the field of oncology, as I witnessed the profound impact that research could have on improving cancer treatments and patient outcomes.
Upon completing my Master’s degree, I secured a job as a biomedical engineer. In this role, I primarily worked in process development, applying the engineering principles I had learned throughout my education. After a few months, I realized that my true passion lay in the research aspects of my work, particularly in the field of immuno-oncology.
Motivated by my passion for research and the desire to contribute to cutting-edge advancements in cancer treatment, I made the decision to join as a research associate in a biotechnology industry company. Here, I have been fortunate to work on groundbreaking research aimed at developing transformative cancer treatments for patients. Along the way, I have gained valuable skills, both technical and interpersonal, that have furthered my growth as a researcher.
Throughout my journey, I have come to realize that my training in engineering has been instrumental in my ability to excel in the research field. The problem-solving mindset, analytical thinking, and attention to detail that I developed during my engineering education have proven to be invaluable assets in my research endeavors.
As I look back on my experiences and the skills I have acquired, I am grateful for the opportunities that have shaped my path. With each step, my passion for research and dedication to improving patient outcomes in the field of immuno-oncology continue to drive me forward. From my beginnings in India to pursuing my passion in a foreign land, I have encountered numerous challenges along the way. But my determination and unwavering commitment to making a difference have propelled me forward.
Finance Fellow
career options
The biotechnology and biomedical engineering fields offer a wide range of career options for individuals interested in applying science and technology to improve human health and advance medical research. These fields involve the use of biological systems, engineering principles, and technology to develop innovative solutions and products. The different careers offer opportunities for research, development, manufacturing, and consulting in various sectors such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology companies, research institutions, and medical device companies.
The field of biotechnology and biomedical engineering is vast, with many diverse career paths. A few options have been described below, but these only encompass some career paths.
Finance Fellow
skills
What are the main hard skills you use on a daily basis in your current job?
Aseptic techniques in the biotechnology industry are essential for maintaining the sterility and integrity of biopharmaceutical products. These techniques involve creating a sterile environment, ensuring personnel are properly trained, sterilizing equipment, and performing aseptic manipulations. Regular monitoring and validation are also crucial to ensure the effectiveness of these techniques. By implementing aseptic techniques, biotechnology companies can prevent contamination and ensure the quality and safety of their products, meeting regulatory requirements and maintaining product integrity.
In most roles in finance, you will have to analyze (and often write) technical and complex documents pertaining to your industries and the companies you work with. Being able to quickly learn technical concepts and write about them in a clear and succinct way will help you grasp and communicate important ideas efficiently. I took this course in college that particularly helped me develop this skill!
Financial modeling and data analysis more broadly are at the heart of investment strategies and decisions. The ability to not only analyze a company based on its data, but also to use that information to inform investment guidance and decisions (for example, to present a valuation) will serve you well. I learned a lot of this through my work in college, but there are also great online courses available to further your skills in this area.
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.
What are the main soft skills you use on a daily basis in your current job?
No matter how good your analytical skills are, an idea or concept is only as good as your ability to articulate it! I work closely with buyer clients and potential sellers every day, and the capacity to interact with them via email, over the phone, and in person, is fundamental to building long-lasting relationships and trust. Effective communication can be learned and practiced in many different ways, but its importance cannot be overstated!
It probably comes as no surprise that solid writing skills are essential (this goes for just about any industry!). My role is very client facing and being able to write concise and effective emails and reports is essential. Getting the content right is very important of course, but don’t forget about the way you deliver the information.
The financial industry is a fast-paced world. In my role, I’m constantly working on multiple pieces of the puzzle at the same time, and you need to be able to switch from one task to another quickly, without losing sight of the bigger picture. But don’t worry, the more you do it, the better you get at it!
Rik
’s personal path
Tell us about your personal journey in
Finance Fellow
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My journey into the financial world might have been a bit of an unusual one. I didn’t do the conventional finance internships in college that you might associate with someone who ends up in finance; my internship experience was mostly on the government and policy side. However, I would argue that this has actually given me a very valuable perspective. The further into my Economics major I got, the more I realized that I wanted to be involved in the investment process in one way or another. I started exploring what options were out there, and I soon found that the field of mergers & acquisitions is an exciting space with lots of interesting work to be done.
When I found out about an up-and-coming boutique M&A advisory firm, my interest was piqued. I liked the prospect of working for a smaller firm with more of a startup feeling, while covering major deals with well-established clients. After numerous rounds of technical and behavioral interviews, I was excited to be chosen for the role. Ever since, I have thoroughly enjoyed working with buy-side clients to help them find the right companies for their specific strategies.
Looking back, I realize that one of the most important things you can do is to follow your curiosity. Speaking with people who are in the industry will help you find out what roles are a good fit for you. Asking questions and trying to learn as much as possible will get you closer to finding out what you are truly excited about.
What would you tell your younger you regarding building your current career?
Don’t be afraid to pursue your passions, no matter what they are! While it’s important to be strategic and intentional, I believe that you are going to be most successful when you love what you do. Some people might already know what that is, but many are still searching. Through my academics, internships, and other activities, I had the opportunity to explore a broad spectrum of fields and have a wide variety of experiences. If you can, try to explore different things and pursue different experiences. Careers are rarely linear. Don’t worry if you haven’t found what you want to do or be. College is a great time to figure out what you love (and what you don’t, which is just as important!). Have an open mind, and your passions will turn into opportunities.
Final thoughts & tips
The transition from college into “the real world” can be a daunting prospect, but it’s also an exciting opportunity to expand your mind. The world of finance is an exciting field, and if you’re even remotely interested in it, I would encourage you to explore it further and see if you can find an area that you are truly passionate about. Most importantly, stay true to yourself and ask as many questions as you can. If you’ve already found your passion, great. If you haven’t, don’t worry; it’s only a matter of time until you find something you are truly excited about.
Resources to dig in more
Morning Brew
The Morning Brew newsletter delivers a quick, engaging summary of the day's top business and tech news, tailored for young professionals. Its witty tone and concise format make complex topics easily digestible, keeping readers informed and entertained. It’s a fun way to start the day while getting up to speed on relevant topics.
ChannelE2E
ChannelE2E is a newsletter that provides the latest news, trends, and insights specifically for the IT channel, focusing on managed services, technology partnerships, and M&A activity. It aims to equip IT professionals and business leaders with actionable intelligence to navigate the evolving landscape of the technology industry. I use this resource in my work quite often!
PitchBook
PitchBook is a financial data and software company that provides comprehensive information on private equity, venture capital, and M&A transactions. Its platform offers detailed insights, analytics, and reporting tools that help professionals make informed investment decisions and stay updated on market trends. There is a ton to learn here, so I encourage you to check it out.
