AI In Hiring, Backdoor References, & Biotech’s Talent Challenges

Welcome to the Fourth Issue of The BioHire Journal!

As 2024 winds down, we’re excited to bring you our Q4 edition, where we explore the dynamic intersection of life sciences, talent, and recruitment trends.

In this edition, we dive into the game-changing rise of AI-assisted application tools and reveal how they’re reshaping the hiring landscape. We tackle the challenge of scientific candidates who may have the skills but struggle in interviews—and show hiring managers how to refine their approach for better outcomes. Plus, don’t miss our deep dive into the controversial world of backdoor references—a common practice that always stirs up debate in recruiting circles. Does it offer a better candidate view, is it a breach of ethics? Also, How does Biotech’s Volatility Impact Talent and Career Prospects Amid M&A Prospects? And lastly we delve into just how important in-person interviewing is!

Read and grow!

This edition is packed with actionable insights, featuring the BioHire Roundup section keeping you informed and equipped with the latest insights to stay ahead of the curve

We’d love to hear your feedback! Share your thoughts at hello@biohire.org.

Thank you for reading the BioHire Journal, where each issue deepens the connection between science and talent.

Overwhelmed by AI: The Unqualified Application Flood

By: Eric Celidonio & Natalie Zimmerman

Around half of job applicants now use AI tools to significantly enhance resumes, cover letters and then mass apply to jobs. This trend is prompting companies to adopt skill-based assessments and AI-detection tools to maintain hiring integrity and manage applicant volume.

Good Scientist, Bad Interviewer?

By: Brittany VanDerBill

Assessing scientists and engineers by the same standards as non-technical roles risks overlooking their unique strengths, which often manifest in poor interview performance. Discover how a refined approach can uncover hidden gems.

Backdoor References in Recruitment: Insight or Invasion?

By: Deborah Abrams Kaplan

Backdoor references can offer valuable insights into a candidate’s skills and work ethic, but hiring managers must handle them with care to ensure credibility and confidentiality. Are you using backdoor references to their fullest potential—or risking your reputation and your company’s by appearing intrusive or unfair?

Biotech: Where Failure is Likely, Money is Fleeting, & Layoffs are Inevitable

By: Daniel Klein

Clinical drug development is costly and has a failure rate over 90%, necessitating significant external funding for small companies. As mergers and acquisitions increase amid fierce competition and patent expirations, ongoing layoffs create opportunities for organizations to acquire talent.

In Person-Interviewing: A Relic of the Past?

By: Natalie Zimmerman

Biotech talent acquisition has increasingly embraced virtual interviews, yet many professionals stress the importance of in-person assessments for cultural fit. A blended approach of virtual and face-to-face interviews, along with behavioral evaluations, is crucial for identifying the best candidates.

BioHire RoundUp

By: Eric Celidonio

Stay updated with the latest news and trends shaping the biotech recruiting world.

Upcoming FDA Decision Dates (PDUFAs)

Here’s a summary of the FDA’s upcoming new drug approval dates.

The Best Biotech Deadpool List on the Web

It’s been a tough couple of years for Biopharma startups, here is a good list of casualties.

Market Trends Shift: Bruce Booth Says Products Are In, Platforms Are Out

Bruce has arguable the best VC biotech blog and he overviews how risk cycles affect assets and platforms, shaping strategies for navigating uncertainty and growth in the industry. 

The Elections Affect Biotech Financing, It’s Always Darkest Before Dawn…

Melanie Senior’s LinkedIn post points out constructive insights.

Why Life Science Fraud is Suddenly EVERYWHERE

The rise of scientific fraud is exposing how systemic pressures and weak oversight are undermining research integrity, prompting urgent discussions within the scientific community.

The BioHire Journal:

Where each issue advances the connection between science and talent.