Career Day: a catalytic event for students, early-career researchers and companies
The Career Day held at Medicon Village on 3 December once again demonstrated its role as a catalytic event for students, early-career researchers, and companies eager to engage with the next generation of life science talent. Co-organised by Medicon Village and the Careers Centre at the Faculty of Medicine at Lund University, and sponsored by the Cross-border Talent Bridge project, an EU Interreg initiative, the event attracted around 340 job seekers and 20 exhibitors. The strong turnout underscored both the dynamism of the regional life science ecosystem and the diverse career pathways available within it.
A strengthened 2025 concept
Building on last year’s success, the 2025 edition expanded its reach to additional faculties. Alongside the Faculty of Medicine, this year’s event specifically engaged students from LTH (Faculty of Engineering) and LUSEM (Faculty of Economics and Management). This development reflects a clear ambition. Progress in life science does not depend on siloed expertise. Instead, innovation requires multiple roles, backgrounds, and competencies that together accelerate scientific and industrial advancement.
To support this broader focus, the programme was split into two parallel conference tracks. One centred on life science and biomedical careers. The second addressed opportunities connected to engineering, data, business, and management, reflecting the interdisciplinary needs of the sector. This expanded structure attracted a substantial number of students from the local and regional environment as well as international participants. Support from the Cross-border Talent Bridge project was instrumental in outreach across the Greater Copenhagen region, including strong attendance from Copenhagen-based students. This cross-border engagement was also evident in the presence of Danish companies and organisations among the exhibitors.
Engaging seminars, insightful talks, exhibitions and networking opportunities
The morning sessions featured speakers who offered guidance on navigating the life science job market and preparing for emerging challenges, while throughout the day, 20 exhibitors provided attendees with direct access to leading companies and organisations in the life sciences sector. These interactions allowed job seekers to explore opportunities, understand hiring needs, and establish new professional connections. The afternoon focused on practical career development with dedicated sessions offering CV reviews and LinkedIn optimisation support.
Looking ahead
This year’s Career Day venue was filled to capacity, and the energy throughout the day reflected the strong ambition among attendees to take their next career steps. A recurring theme in several presentations was the reminder that a career is shaped by far more than a one-page CV. As highlighted by Niclas Lindqvist, we are defined not only by our documents but by the full span of our experiences, perspectives, and ways of working. This message resonated strongly with the many participants, including international students and researchers seeking to begin their professional journey in Sweden.
Speakers throughout the day emphasised the importance of articulating one’s strengths beyond formal qualifications, and the practical sessions on CV and LinkedIn development aimed to support that process. The discussions also underlined the need for curiosity and adaptability in a sector undergoing rapid transformation. As technology, data, and new scientific approaches reshape the landscape, the life science industry increasingly needs individuals who can navigate change, connect disciplines, and contribute solutions to emerging challenges.
The vibrant mix of talent and aspiration present at Medicon Village reinforced the Career Day’s reputation as a unique platform for insights, opportunities, and connections within a flourishing regional ecosystem. As the event continues to grow each year, it strengthens Medicon Village’s position as a hub for innovation and talent attraction.
Students and job seekers are encouraged to follow the Medicon Village webpage for open positions and the Medicon Village LinkedIn page for future opportunities and events.
List of participating organisations
Companies: Lundbeck, Potter Clarkson, Capillon Analytics, LEO Pharma, Medhouse, AstraZeneca, Worksphere, Aurevia, Höiberg, Lumito, AdvanSci Research Solutions, MSD Denmark, and Robert Bosch.
Non-profit organisations: Workindenmark and EURES, Naturvetarna, SmiLe Venture Hub, International Citizen Hub & Lunds kommun, Synapse, Copenhagen Capacity & Copenhagen Kommune, and Medicon Valley Alliance.
