Misconceptions about ‘who belongs’ in biomedical were turned on their head and new possibilities were opened for the next generation of talent at the WA Life Sciences Innovation Hub’s ‘Spotlight on Biomedical Careers: Talent, Transition, Transformation’ on Tuesday.
The event was a dedicated showcase of biomedical career pathways across research, industry, government, and entrepreneurship, attracting more than 160 attendees including high school students, university students, PhD candidates, early career researchers, industry professionals and career transitioners – all eager to explore one of WA’s fastest growing sectors.
Opening remarks from Dr Tracey Wilkinson, Director of Stakeholder Engagement WA at MTPConnect and WALSIH, highlighted the transformation underway in WA’s biomedical landscape. From precision medicines and regenerative therapies to medical devices, AI‑enabled diagnostics and clinical trials, the sector now spans more than 240 companies, 21 research institutes and 5 universities.
Tracey emphasised the importance of talent development, noting that biomedical careers extend far beyond traditional science roles. “So whether you’re interested in biology, chemistry, data science, engineering, law, business, marketing…there are opportunities in the biomedical sector.”
Attendees heard from:
A lively panel session followed with Scott Dassira (Biocina), Bianca Starcevich (Humanitas HR), Cosimo Santella (10th Axis) and Keelie Munro (KE Select), who unpacked hiring expectations, skill translation, and the attributes that help candidates stand out. Scott encouraged attendees to recognise the value of their diverse life experiences, not just work experience, and how they can apply in a professional setting: “Don’t dismiss what you do – they make you, you.”
Cosimo left the audience with a great takeaway – this sector is a great place to work because of the people.
Before the main event kicked off, 40 high school students enjoyed a behind‑the‑scenes tour of the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, which offered a first-hand look at what careers inside WA’s biomedical ecosystem really look like. Huge thanks to the teams who opened their doors and shared their work: Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Corametix, and the WA Health Translation Network, who gave insights into the many roles in an MRI, far beyond the lab bench.
There’s nothing more valuable then actually talking to people to bring the depth and breadth of WA’s biomedical sector to life, and Tuesday’s networking sessions helped attendees understand the opportunities across research, training, innovation, clinical trials, recruitment and government. Thank you to:
Strong interest in the event underscored the growing demand for talent across WA’s biomedical sector and the importance of building clear workforce pathways for the next generation, a central focus of WALSIH’s mission to support WA’s future biomedical workforce.
If you can see yourself in the biomedical workforce too, EOIs for the 2026 Perth Biodesign Flagship course are still open!
WALSIH was pleased to deliver this as a satellite event of the 2026 BioInnovation Festival, led by Life Sciences WA.
