Life Sciences in Action: How Middlebury Alumni Turned Curiosity Into Careers
Arts, Media, and Communications, Business, Finance, and Consulting, Education, Government, Law, and Policy, Social Impact, Technology
Students curious about careers in biotech, healthcare, consulting, finance, or science-adjacent fields will have a chance to hear directly from Middlebury alumni at Life Sciences in Action: Exciting Careers in the Life Sciences Industry, happening Wednesday, April 29 from 7:00–8:30 PM in BiHall 220.
The panel brings together graduates working across the wide spectrum of the life sciences industry, from oncology marketing and consulting to investment banking and health economics, showing how a liberal arts education can lead to unexpected and impactful career paths.
A field for every major
When students hear “life sciences,” they often picture lab work or medical school. In reality, the industry relies on professionals in business, marketing, communications, policy, consulting, and finance alongside scientists and researchers. This event is designed to help students connect the dots between their interests and real-world opportunities. Moderated by Professor Jeremy Ward, Albert D. Mead Professor of Biology and Vice President of Academic Affairs, the panel will explore industry trends, career entry points, and the value of a liberal arts background in a fast-growing and evolving field.
Meet the alumni panel
The discussion will feature Middlebury alumni working across multiple sectors of the life sciences ecosystem:
- Chris Ahlers ’89 — Senior Medical Director, NovaBridge Biosciences
- Ginelle Andrews ’99 – Director of Commercial Product Sourcing Strategy at Pfizer
- Kirsten Detrick ’87 — Tuck B-School Adjunct Prof., retired Sr. Exec. BioPharma Industry
- Charlotte Marks ’23.5— Senior Analyst at Chestnut Partners
- Chris Mycek ’89— Head of Commercialization at Benchworks
- Scott Riccio ’94 - Head & US Lead of Oncology Patient Advocacy, Takeda Oncology
- Brad Schenkel ’97— Director, Health Economics and Outcomes Research at Sun Pharmaceutical Industries
- Andre Spring ’88— Vice-President Oncology Marketing, Regeneron
Together, they represent the many ways students can apply their skills and interests within the industry.
What students will gain
Attendees will learn how alumni broke into the field, what skills matter most, and how to start exploring internships, networking opportunities, and early career roles. The event will also include time for questions and informal networking. Whether you’re a STEM major exploring industry roles, a humanities student interested in science communication, or a social sciences student curious about consulting or policy, this panel offers a chance to see how your academic experience can translate into meaningful work.
Students are encouraged to bring their curiosity… and their appetite. Pizza will be served.