DOSTI Hosts Career and Networking Event for Indian-Origin Life Sciences Professionals
ANDOVER, Mass. — DOSTI, a New England-based professional network for Indian-origin scientists and life sciences professionals, held a career development and networking event Sept. 26 in Andover, bringing together more than 100 scientists, researchers, entrepreneurs and other professionals.
DOSTI, or Diaspora Of ScienTists from India, connects professionals working in academia, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, startups and healthcare. The group has more than 600 members across its WhatsApp and LinkedIn communities.
The event focused on career development and the changing biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, with speakers offering perspectives on career planning, professional growth and the job market.
Dr. Gopi Shanker, chief scientific officer at Beam Therapeutics, encouraged attendees to think about their long-term career goals and develop the skills and experiences needed to reach them.
Vijay Kanaparaju, senior vice president of Pioneering Medicines at Flagship Pioneering, spoke about his career journey and the value of being open to opportunities that may fall outside one’s existing experience. He emphasized adaptability and a willingness to learn.
Christopher Clancy, business development manager at The Steely Group, discussed current trends in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical job market, including the growing role of artificial intelligence and its potential impact on careers.
The presentations were followed by informal networking, giving attendees an opportunity to meet colleagues, exchange ideas and discuss career transitions and job opportunities.
The program also included information from DOSTI officials Nishanth Gopinathan and Srinivas Sonti on resources relevant to H-1 and H-4 visa holders. Several individuals were also recognized for their contributions and achievements, with Jaya Goyal presenting the awards.
The event was introduced by DOSTI Convenor Ganesh Prasanna, with speaker introductions by Pramod Pandey, advisor and outreach. DOSTI President Jagdish Tewari delivered the vote of thanks.
The event was sponsored by Aragen Bioscience.
Founded in 2004, DOSTI has organized networking events for Indian-origin scientists and professionals in New England for the past several years. The organization plans to continue hosting gatherings focused on professional networking, mentorship, career development and collaboration.
DOSTI’s leadership team includes Tewari, president; Gopinathan, vice president; Neelaabh Shankar, general secretary; Goyal, head of Women in Science; Dinesh Bangari, joint secretary/treasurer; Raj Nagaraja, head of Youth Affairs; Pandey, advisor and outreach; and Prasanna, convenor.
