BioMelbourne Network is launching a one-year project to develop a central portal containing a workforce resource suite, thanks to the Victorian Government's support.
Victoria is a leading force in medical research, comprising over 18 medical research institutes and 11 universities, in addition to more than 500 industry companies. The research sector employs over 30,000 people, including scientists, clinicians, and support staff, and is responsible for over 40 per cent of Australia’s research output in medical and health sciences.
However, despite the first-rate graduates emerging from Victorian universities and skills providers, the health and medical research sector faces workforce challenges and skill gaps, and the pathway for talent to transition from academia to industry remains stubborn. This project seeks to address the limited awareness of career pathways and opportunities.
BioMelbourne Network said it will shortly call for member support to map Victorian medical research careers, including what skills, qualifications and experience are needed when applying for roles.
These maps will include direct research roles, supporting roles such as clinical trials or lab technicians, and professional roles such as intellectual property and regulatory affairs specialists.
“Victoria is a world leader in medical research because of our dedicated and talented workforce," said Victoria's Minister for Medical Research Ben Carroll.
“The Victorian Government is proud to support the BioMelbourne Network to deliver resources so more young people can think about a career in medical research, and to support the current workforce to understand career opportunities and pathways.