MicroSocial Seminar Series: Megan M. Gallagher

Talk: From Bench to Biotech: Building a Career in the Commercial Biotechnology Sector,

 Speaker: Megan M. Gallagher, Senior Instrument Sales Specialist, QIAGEN

Abstract: Biotechnology careers offer diverse pathways outside traditional academic and research laboratories. In this talk, Megan Gallagher shares her professional journey, detailing her progression from molecular biology wet-lab research to field applications and commercial biotechnology. The session will highlight career opportunities in the biotechnology industry and offer practical advice for scientists interested in transitioning their research expertise into commercial roles.

Bio: Megan Gallagher is a molecular biologist by training. She began her career in wet-lab research before transitioning into a field application specialist role, specializing in laboratory automation and researcher training. She currently serves as a Senior Instrument Sales Specialist at QIAGEN, combining her scientific background with commercial biotechnology.

About the event: The MicroSocial Seminar Series aims to facilitate scientific exchange and community building across the University of Maryland's microbiome research community. Monthly seminars feature UMD speakers, including students and faculty, who give short research presentations (either 2 x 12 minutes or 1 x 20 minute talks) followed by a social happy 1/2 hour over coffee and snacks. We welcome presentations about in-progress work or recent results, with the goal to provide an overview, receive feedback, promote opportunities for collaboration, or identify community interests and needs that the center may address. Open to all of UMD, the monthly seminar takes place on Tuesdays from 3:30–4:30 p.m.