As a natural extension of IMU’s strategic ‘Linking-U with Industry’ forum during its 25th anniversary celebrations, the Medical Biotechnology (MB) programme became one of the seminal programmes to implement the School of Health Sciences (SOHS) Graduate Employability Initiative in 2018. The graduate preparedness advisory committee (GPAC) was formed to engage directly with industry, with the focus on keeping the MB curriculum relevant. This was achieved by engaging with talent acquisition personnel as well as line managers of related industries who shared relevant local and global knowledge and skill requirements which are necessary to secure graduate employment.

When the Office of Industry Partnerships & Engagement (IPE) was established in 2023, the university moved towards centralising partnership engagements at the school level by implementing Industry Advisory Boards (IAB) for all programmes.  The MB programme made a seamless transition from GPAC to IAB, thus expanding both the number of industries and breadth of industrial engagements.

The IAB plays a crucial role in ensuring that the MB curriculum stays aligned with current and future industry needs. This is particularly important as prospective students and parents often express concerns about job opportunities in the biotechnology field. In response, the MB programme team remains vigilant and responsive, actively working to bridge the gap between academic training and workforce demands.

By engaging with the industry through the IAB, the programme ensures that its graduates are not only well-equipped with scientific knowledge but also possess the practical skills and industrial exposure needed for a successful career.

The IAB also features an annual industry forum, which serves as a platform for dialogue between students and professionals on pressing topics in biotechnology. In line with global trends, recent forums have focused on the theme of “Sustainable Practices in Biotech,” reflecting the increasing importance of environmental responsibility and ethical innovation in the sector. These sessions offer students the chance to hear directly from industry professionals on how sustainability is being integrated into real-world biotech applications — from cellular agriculture and diagnostics to regenerative medicine and functional foods.

Beyond the IAB, the MB programme sustains ongoing engagement with the biotech sector through various initiatives. These include industrial on-site visits, which give students direct exposure to laboratory operations, R&D, and manufacturing environments. The programme also collaborates with companies to offer Graduate Trainee Programmes (GTPs) that support the transition of graduates into the workforce with structured mentoring and training.

Industry professionals are regularly invited to speak at MB-organised events such as MB Day, career talks, and student workshops. These sessions offer students insights into career paths and industry expectations, helping them build confidence and networks before graduation. The programme also supports internships and industry attachments, providing students with opportunities to gain hands-on experience and apply their knowledge in practical settings. Additionally, there is a growing focus on joint events, innovation showcases, and entrepreneurship platforms, which encourage students to explore creative solutions and contribute to the future of biotechnology.

Through these concerted efforts, the MB programme continues to demonstrate its commitment to producing well-rounded, industry-ready graduates. With the IAB serving as a core pillar of collaboration and feedback, and with strong ties to key biotechnology companies, the programme remains adaptive, forward-looking, and responsive to both industry developments and the aspirations of its students.

Written by Prof Dr Chin Beek Yoke, AP Ts. Dr Wong Chiew Yen, Ts. Dr Yeannie Yap Hui Yeng