BioInnovation Scientist (BIS) Foundations Program
For learners with a scientific background
Bridging the path from academia to industry
If you're nearing the end of your academic training and wondering how to launch your career in biotech, the BIS Foundations stream was developed for you. This fully virtual program equips you with the industry context, professional network, and strategic mindset needed to succeed in therapeutic R&D and beyond.
BIS Foundations is designed for:
- Current science students
- Professionals working in research and development
- Researchers looking to transition from academia to industry
Build the industry knowledge and practical perspective needed to take the next step in your career.
- Program starts: September 21
- Program fee: $250 + tax
- Delivery: 100% virtual*
Learn therapeutics development while strengthening skills for industry
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Gain an industry-focused perspective on drug development, from discovery to commercialization
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Learn from industry experts about career pathways and sector trends
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Develop essential decision-making skills for life sciences innovation
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Build your professional network and explore new career opportunities
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Participate in a flexible online format designed for working and learning remotely
Course Breakdown
- Course 1: Therapeutics Development and the Life Sciences Industry
• Industry Overview | IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access) | Intellectual Property - Course 2: Introduction to Therapeutics Discovery
• Drug Discovery Process | Small Molecules | Antibodies - Course 3: Preclinical and Clinical Development
• Preclinical Studies | Clinical Trials - Course 4: Therapeutics Commercialization
• Development Planning | Target Product Profile
Includes: Interactive discussion boards, consolidation activities, 3 mandatory live lectures, and 3 mandatory live peer discussion groups.
What Participants Are Saying
"Nearing the end of my neuroscience PhD, I wanted to leave academia but was uncertain if the pharmaceutical industry would be a good fit. The adMare program gave me a detailed view of how drug development works in the real world and made me aware of career paths that seemed stimulating, rewarding, and relevant for my experience."
— Daryan Chitsaz, Ph.D. Candidate
"The course was concise and comprehensive, and I find the context incredibly valuable to my current position in therapeutic research."
— Vivian Zhihui Li, Associate Research Scientist
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the BIS programs?
CASTL’s BioInnovation Scientist programs help learners build industry knowledge, confidence, and decision-making skills for the next step in drug discovery.
What is the difference between BIS Foundations and BIS Industry Essentials?
BIS Foundations is designed for learners with a scientific background. BIS Industry Essentials is for those exploring entry-level opportunities and does not require a science background.
Which BIS program is right for me?
Choose BIS Foundations if you have scientific training, are early in your life sciences career, or want a deeper introduction to therapeutics development and R&D decision-making. Choose BIS Industry Essentials if you are exploring an entry-level path, do not have a science background, or want a shorter introduction to the sector.
Do I need a science background to apply?
A science background is recommended for BIS Foundations. No science background is required for BIS Industry Essentials.
What will I learn?
Both programs help you understand how therapeutics move from discovery to commercialization, build industry awareness, strengthen decision-making, and gain exposure to real-world industry thinking.
How is the program delivered?
Both BIS programs are delivered in a flexible virtual format.
Who is BIS Foundations for?
It is for learners with a scientific background who want a stronger understanding of therapeutics development and R&D decision-making.
Who is BIS Industry Essentials for?
It is for learners exploring entry-level opportunities who want a focused introduction to drug discovery and the biotech sector.
Can these programs help me prepare for a career in drug discovery?
Yes. Both programs are designed to help learners build confidence, industry awareness, and practical understanding for the next step in drug discovery.
How do I apply?
You can apply by selecting the program that fits your background and completing the online application process.
Why Choose CASTL?
As Canada’s Biomanufacturing Training Partner, CASTL delivers sector-specific training aligned with real workforce needs. Both BIS streams were developed in collaboration with adMare Academy, a leader in life sciences talent development. You'll graduate with the confidence, language, and insight to take the next step in your career—wherever innovation takes you.
Whether you’re launching your career or expanding your industry knowledge, the CASTL BIS Program has a path for you. Choose your path and apply above.
