Contributing to the growth of Australia and New Zealand’s biotech sector is central to Brandon Capital’s model. As part of this long-term strategy, Brandon Capital conducts an annual internship training program to provide candidates with a foundational understanding of life science commercialisation. Places are first offered to candidates with an affiliation to members of the Brandon BioCatalyst network. Since the commencement of the program over 10 years ago, more than 150 candidates have successfully completed internships.
Our intern program is currently conducted as a virtual eight-part workshop commencing in April/May each year. The total time commitment required for the program is approximately 80 hours (inclusive of time required for preparation and pre-reading) and is structured to provide candidates with insights into the life sciences sector from a venture capital perspective. Interns are exposed to the technical, regulatory, clinical and commercialisation pathway that must be navigated to translate medical research into a commercial pharmaceutical or biotech product; as well as insights into key factors that make opportunities attractive for investors/partners.
Topics covered during the program include intellectual property (IP) protection and IP strategy, due diligence, company formation and development programs, term sheets and deal structuring. In addition to building their network in the sector, interns are also invited to observe a Brandon BioCatalyst Investment Review Committee (IRC) meeting, providing first-hand exposure to our decision-making process.
The ideal candidate is one who is interested in exploring the world of life science commercialisation and has:
Selection is highly competitive with cohort size capped to ensure adequate engagement. Potential applicants from Brandon BioCatalyst members who are interested in applying for the program are encouraged to contact their commercial/business development office to express their interest. Member support along with a CV and cover letter, outlining the applicants’ interest, and what the applicant hopes to achieve from the program, are required as part of the application process.
For all other enquiries, please email info@brandonbiocatalyst.com or info@bcpvc.com
Through the internship it was fantastic to understand what Brandon are looking for in the projects they fund. The learnings from the internship program will be applied to the new projects we develop, both in reviewing the opportunity and developing a solid business plan that will increase the commercial success.
The internship was a valuable experience that filled a critical gap in my knowledge of how early-stage life science technologies are commercialised. Up to this point, my experience was from a technology development perspective, and I did not have a full understanding of what investors were seeking in potential investments. The internship experience is immeasurable and will pay dividends well into the future.
The internship was an excellent learning and development opportunity. I greatly improved my understanding of the venture capital financing model and elements such as valuation, due diligence, market analysis and drug development. The MRCF internship program also enabled me to expand my national commercialisation networks and work alongside experienced biotech investors.
