Building Ohio’s Life Sciences Workforce: Inspiring the Future, Connecting Talent, and Fueling Innovation

At Ohio Life Sciences (OLS), we believe that talent is the foundation of a thriving life sciences ecosystem. Our commitment to workforce development goes beyond today’s needs: we’re shaping the future by preparing the next generation of innovators, researchers, technicians, and leaders to meet the evolving demands of biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, healthcare, and beyond.

Through strategic partnerships, targeted programming, and impactful resources, OLS is working to ensure that students, educators, professionals, and employers are connected in meaningful ways, creating a diverse talent pipeline for the entire state of Ohio.

Our Approach: Building Talent for Tomorrow

Ohio Life Sciences fosters workforce growth through a multi-pronged strategy that includes hands-on training programs, internship opportunities, and deep industry collaboration. We work alongside academic institutions and life sciences employers to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application, empowering early-career professionals and seasoned experts alike to drive growth and innovation.

Whether it’s inspiring a middle school student to explore biomedical science or helping a company find the perfect candidate for a clinical research role, our work is centered on one goal: connecting talent and opportunity.

BioPathways: Igniting Curiosity and Innovation in the Classroom

At the heart of our K–12 engagement efforts is BioPathways, an initiative designed to build excitement for life sciences careers by reaching students and educators early. We support teachers with the tools and resources they need to guide the future workforce and foster student curiosity in ways that are immersive, hands-on, and industry informed.

BioPathways is built on three pillars:

• Support Teachers: We equip educators with training, materials, and connections to industry experts so they can inspire students with real-world science.

• Inspire Students: Our classroom resources spotlight the broad range of life sciences careers from biotech research to pharmaceutical development, helping students see themselves in future roles.

• Foster Innovation: We create experiential learning programs that spark curiosity and build key skills, forming a critical bridge between K–12 education and Ohio’s growing biotech ecosystem.

New in 2025: OLS and COSI Launch Statewide Learning Initiative

Expanding the reach of BioPathways, we’re proud to announce a major new partnership with the Center of Science and Industry (COSI) to launch a statewide workforce development initiative in April 2025.

Through the distribution of Learning Lunchboxes, STEM-focused kits filled with hands-on educational activities, OLS and COSI will engage students in all 88 counties across Ohio. These interactive experiences are designed to capture middle schoolers’ imaginations and introduce them to the exciting possibilities of careers in biotechnology, diagnostics, healthcare, and more.

By focusing on middle school students, a critical stage in educational development, we aim to address the “leaky STEM pipeline,” where too many potential future scientists and innovators are lost due to lack of exposure, mentorship, or access. This initiative not only builds foundational academic and soft skills but also connects students with real-world applications and inspiring career paths in the life sciences.

The OLS Career Portal: Where Talent Meets Opportunity

As students move into higher education and the workforce, Ohio Life Sciences continues to support their journey through the OLS Career Portal, an all-in-one platform that connects individuals with job openings, internships, and training programs across the state.

Though the portal is in its pilot stage currently, the portal will serve as a dynamic resource for:

• Job Seekers: Whether launching a new career or pivoting into life sciences from another industry, users can explore curated opportunities, receive personalized guidance from industry Navigators, and connect directly with top Ohio employers.

• Employers: Companies can post positions, showcase their culture, and discover qualified candidates who are ready to drive innovation.

With a user-friendly interface and a growing network of participants, the OLS Career Portal makes it easier than ever for Ohio’s talent and employers to find each other, strengthening the overall health and competitiveness of the state’s life sciences sector.

A Unified Vision for Ohio’s Life Sciences Future

From sparking curiosity in the classroom to supporting career transitions and employer connections, Ohio Life Sciences is proud to play a central role in workforce development across the state. By investing in talent at every stage, early education, career exploration, and professional advancement, we are ensuring a strong, innovative, and resilient life sciences workforce for generations to come.

Whether you're a teacher, student, job seeker, or employer, there’s a place for you in this growing community. Let’s shape the future of life sciences together!

Angie McMurry

Director of Industry Engagement and Workforce

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