Biotech Intern Newsletter: Spotlight on Sibangi Panda
Welcome to this edition of the Biotech Intern Newsletter! Today, we’re excited to feature Sibangi Panda, whose internship at Ocular Therapeutix, Inc. is a remarkable example of adaptability, innovation, and perseverance. Sibangi’s story highlights how embracing challenges, effective communication, and curiosity can pave the way for success in the dynamic world of biotech.
Internship Snapshot
Company: Ocular Therapeutix, Inc.
Location: On-site, Bedford, MA
How It Started: Found through Northeastern University’s NUworks portal
A Day in the Life
During her internship, Sibangi focused on developing dendrimer-based drug delivery platforms for monoclonal antibody therapies targeting eye diseases. She gained valuable hands-on experience in formulation strategies, analytical techniques (HPLC, SEC), and intellectual property (IP) related to gene therapy. Her work not only deepened her understanding of drug delivery but also expanded her knowledge into patent claims and regulatory strategies.
Lessons from the Lab
Biggest Learning: Adaptability in a fast-paced environment
"The most important thing I learned during my internship was adaptability—embracing new scientific and technological tools, workflows, and effective communication while collaborating with diverse teams in both office and lab settings. This experience was instrumental in fostering my personal and professional growth."
Best Advice Received
"Approach challenges with curiosity, persistence, and a positive mindset, seeing every problem as an opportunity to innovate and grow." This mindset helped Sibangi navigate complex research projects and unexpected challenges.
Wish I Knew Before Starting
The importance of time management in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment. Balancing both lab and non-lab responsibilities while maintaining precision was a key learning curve."I wish I had known how to manage time effectively and efficiently in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment, balancing both lab and non-lab responsibilities without compromising quality and precision."
Wish I Had Learned
A deeper understanding of regulatory strategies and FDA submission processes for novel drug delivery systems."I wish I had learned more about regulatory strategies and FDA submission processes for novel drug delivery systems, as understanding these aspects would have provided a broader perspective on translating research into clinical applications."
Fun Moments and Challenges
Most Fun Experience
Attending team outings, troubleshooting ideas, and presenting co-op learnings at Ocular. Sibangi enjoyed engaging with other interns and exploring their projects, which added a collaborative and enjoyable aspect to her internship.
Biggest Struggle
Adapting to new analytical techniques for dendrimer drug delivery systems. However, through consistent learning, clear communication, and persistence, she was able to quickly adapt and thrive in the dynamic work environment.
Key Lessons from Challenges
Sharing ideas fosters critical thinking and innovation.
Overcoming self-doubt leads to skill-building and professional growth.
Behind the Scenes
Resources Utilized
Sibangi wishes she had taken greater advantage of mentorship opportunities and cross-team knowledge-sharing sessions to gain a deeper understanding of formulation techniques and patent applications.
Who Made it Memorable?
"I would credit my Innovation team and my mentor, Phillip Strassburger, for their unwavering support, guidance, and collaborative attitude, which played a key role in my success during and after the internship."
Advice for Future Interns
Start Early: Be persistent—rejections are part of the process.
Communicate and Network: Building relationships opens doors to new opportunities.
Be Adaptable: The biotech industry is fast-paced—embrace change and learn on the go.
Stay Curious and Positive: Step out of your comfort zone—growth happens through challenges.
Turning Setbacks into Opportunities
During her internship, Sibangi faced an unexpected layoff when many employees, including all interns, were let go due to a business restructuring. Instead of panicking, she remained calm, adaptable, and proactive. She reached out to her mentor to explore how she could continue contributing and ended up expanding her knowledge in intellectual property and business development, aligning with her multidisciplinary interests.
"This experience turned a challenging situation into a truly fulfilling learning journey. Over the next few months, I deepened my understanding of intellectual property and business development, applying knowledge from my master's coursework."
Rapid-Fire Favorites
Coffee or Tea? Coffee
Online Meetings or In-Person Meetings? In-Person Meetings
Mountains or Beaches? Beaches
Closing Thoughts
Sibangi’s internship experience at Ocular Therapeutix, Inc. showcases the power of adaptability, proactive learning, and collaboration. Her journey is an inspiring example of how challenges can be transformed into valuable opportunities for growth.
Do you have a story that can inspire the next generation of biotech professionals? Submit your experience to the Biotech Intern Newsletter today.
Connect with Sibangi Panda on LinkedIn for insights and advice.
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