BioTrain Fellows Program

The BioTrain Fellows program is a unique opportunity for up to five qualified fellows to gain hands-on training and teaching experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing through EDA Heartland BioWorks Regional Tech Hub.  This minimum, three-semester fellowship begins with a BioTrain professional development semester, during which Fellows receive instruction to prepare for leading pharmaceutical manufacturing training courses and workshops. In the following two semesters, fellows will apply their training by teaching undergraduate students and industry professionals, developing educational materials, and contributing to Heartland BioWorks workforce development programs. This position provides qualified graduate students with valuable experience in modern bio/pharmaceutical manufacturing, teaching experience and student mentorship in an industry facing environment with networking opportunities, all while fostering academic growth in their field of study.

Applications for Summer 2025: Due by April 14, 2025, see additional application information below.

Location: Purdue University West Lafayette

Commitment: Minimum 3 Semesters starting as early as Summer 2025

Key Responsibilities:

  • Successfully complete BioTrain professional development course in 2025-2026 academic year
  • Work with training manager to prepare course materials, including developing lesson plans, discussion materials, and assessments.
  • Lead discussion sections, tutorials, or lab sessions as assigned for undergraduate students and/or industry trainees.
  • Provide academic support and mentorship to undergraduate students pursuing Pharmaceutical Manufacturing certificate
  • Grade assignments, exams, and quizzes, ensuring timely and fair evaluation
  • Collaborate with training manager to improve course content and delivery
  • Participate in program meetings and training sessions as required

Qualifications & Skills:

  • Enrollment in a graduate program at Purdue University, in life sciences, pharmacy, engineering or technology fields.
  • Strong academic and research background relevant to life sciences and pharmaceutical manufacturing
  • Prior relevant industry or PhD-level research collaboration experience is preferred
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to manage time effectively and work both with a team and independently
  • Commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment.

Benefits:

The BioTrain Fellowship will provide a stipend similar to 50% FTE Graduate Assistantship. An appointment at 25% -FTE for candidates at the postdoctoral level is possible when complemented with other funding related to pharmaceutical manufacturing research.

  • Training on transferable skills in pharmaceutical manufacturing
  • Hands-on teaching experience and professional development.
  • Opportunity to enhance communication and leadership skills.
  • Networking opportunities with industry representatives, as well as the academic community.

Application information:

  • Applications are due by April 14, 2025 via the Qualtrics survey and by providing the following documents:
  • Cover letter describing candidate’s interests and qualifications
  • Candidate’s curriculum vitae
  • Documented approval of application from candidate’s faculty advisor or department head