Harvard MBA / MS of Biotech to Biotech ER

Anyone have thoughts on this? I know it’s a fairly new program, but is this a reasonable career path. I have a bio degree and want to break into biotech ER. Obviously there’s the path of getting a PhD or MD, but the PhD thing seems like a crazy gamble with no job lined up after and I don’t want to proactive medicine.

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Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights on breaking into Biotech Equity Research (ER) with a Harvard MBA/MS in Biotech:

  1. Educational Background:

    • Having a bio degree is a strong foundation for Biotech ER. The Harvard MBA/MS in Biotech program can further enhance your credentials, providing both business acumen and specialized biotech knowledge.
  2. Alternative to PhD/MD:

    • While many in Biotech ER have PhDs or MDs, an MBA/MS in Biotech can be a viable alternative. It offers a blend of scientific expertise and business skills, which are highly valued in ER roles.
  3. Career Path:

    • The program can open doors to various roles within biotech ER. It equips you with the necessary skills to analyze biotech companies, understand market trends, and make informed investment recommendations.
  4. Networking:

    • Leveraging the Harvard network can be a significant advantage. Engaging in informational interviews, attending industry conferences, and connecting with alumni in the field can help you break into the industry.
  5. Job Prospects:

    • While a PhD or MD is common, the combination of an MBA and MS in Biotech can make you a competitive candidate. It demonstrates a commitment to the field and a comprehensive understanding of both the science and business aspects of biotech.
  6. Practical Experience:

    • Gaining practical experience through internships or part-time roles during your studies can be beneficial. It provides hands-on experience and can make your resume stand out.

In summary, pursuing a Harvard MBA/MS in Biotech is a reasonable and potentially advantageous path to breaking into Biotech ER, especially if you leverage the program's resources and network effectively.

Sources: Biotech equity research possible with ZERO finance experience?, MD (Medical Doctor) wanting to get into healthcare ER, 3 Key Tips for Getting an ER Interview, 2nd yr Biotech Equity Research looking for next steps......, What am I expected to know as an incoming ER SA?

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

You don’t need a PhD or an MD to do sell side research. I even know folks without any science background covering stocks (but it kinda shows). My analyst just has an undergrad and he made it (we are at a very reputed shop for biotech). You need a good grip on understanding pathophysiology of diseases, reading scientific literature, understanding of preclinical and clinical data, commercial market landscape and modelling (epi based rev forecast and DCF). A lot networking and pitching stocks can help you break in. Working a couple of years in management consulting can also help you a lot. Good luck! 

 

Unless you get into top medical schools (top 10 essentially), you’re not going straight to VC / buyside investment seats. In fact, I’ve mostly only seen Harvard/ Penn folks who got straight into good buyside seats straight after med school. I’m sure other top graduates from these top 10 can probably place well if they’re interested. Outside of these school, it’s probably going to be very tough and you will have to grind it out for at least few years on the sell side or consulting.

 
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