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May 29 2025
3Growing dissatisfaction with the political and economic climate in the United States is prompting a notable number of biopharma professionals to consider relocating abroad for work. According to a recent survey conducted by BioSpace, nearly a third of employed respondents and almost half of unemployed participants are seriously contemplating moving overseas to pursue careers in biotech or pharma.
Among unemployed respondents, those most inclined to consider relocation had been out of work for three months or less—58% of this group expressed interest in working abroad. This cohort has experienced job loss during a particularly volatile period for the industry, marked by substantial layoffs at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and concerns surrounding biopharma tariffs. Additionally, apprehensions persist about Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a noted vaccine skeptic, leading the HHS, and the potential for further workforce reductions under his tenure.
Layoffs across the biopharma industry have intensified, with 6,044 employees let go in the first quarter of 2025—a 24% increase from the same period in 2024. However, there was a glimmer of hope in April, when layoffs dropped 22% year over year to 1,368. These figures exclude job losses in areas such as contract development, contract research, tools and services, and medical devices.
Political Frustrations Weigh Heavily:
Political unrest is emerging as a significant factor in career decisions. Bryan Blair, vice president of life sciences at GQR, a talent solutions firm, noted an uptick in inquiries from candidates interested in overseas opportunities. He also observed that women, in particular, are citing political concerns that affect not only their professional lives but their personal well-being.
Blair stopped short of predicting a large-scale departure of talent but expressed concern over the growing discontent. “It’s not good for the country when professionals no longer feel comfortable working in what has long been considered an economic powerhouse,” he said.
Survey comments reflected strong sentiments, with several respondents expressing a lack of faith in the federal government’s support for the life sciences. One participant remarked that the current administration under President Donald Trump lacks the capacity to foster innovation or facilitate drug development meaningfully. Another warned of long-term damage to the industry that could outlast the current administration, suggesting that more promising opportunities might lie outside the U.S.
China’s Biotech Surge Offers Alternatives:
Tim Scott, president and CEO of Biocom California, pointed to China as a rapidly growing biotech hub with a rising demand for skilled professionals. A recent report by the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology emphasized China’s progress and warned that it is nearing parity with the U.S. in biotech innovation. However, Scott cautioned that such opportunities may not be as abundant in Europe, citing the region’s smaller market size.
Dwindling Patience Amid Tight Job Market:
In addition to political unease, limited job prospects are driving many to look abroad. Several respondents shared that the domestic job market feels saturated, with few openings aligning with their expertise. One individual noted a frustrating nine-month search for a suitable role, even in positions that required only transferable skills.
BioSpace data confirmed that hiring activity in April was 8% lower than the same month in 2024. Industry analysts do not anticipate a significant recovery until 2026, attributing delays to waning investments and widespread uncertainty.
Others cited personal experiences of instability. One respondent, who had transitioned to a Harvard research lab after being laid off from a biotech startup in late 2024, expressed disillusionment with recent political attacks on academia. They described the cost of living in Massachusetts as unsustainable in light of the uncertain job outlook, especially for preclinical researchers often first in line for cuts.
Some respondents already have plans in motion. A dual citizen stated they are likely to move to Europe within two years, citing greater social protections despite lower pay. “I just need to hang on until then,” they shared.
Concerns Over Talent Retention:
As interest in leaving the country grows, industry leaders are beginning to worry about potential brain drain. Scott emphasized that biotech startups rely on three foundational elements: talent, funding, and workspace. While space is currently ample, he warned that both funding and talent are under threat.
The BioSpace survey also found that more than half of respondents are considering leaving the biopharma industry entirely. With professionals eyeing new paths, talent retention is poised to become an increasingly pressing issue for U.S. biotech companies.
Source:https://www.biospace.com/job-trends/sounding-off-political-climate-job-market-have-some-eyeing-biopharma-work-abroad
This is non-financial/medical advice and made using AI so could be wrong.
