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From Intern to Inspiration: Yusra Mariam’s Biotech Internship Journey at Biogen

Writer: Widler CasyWidler Casy

Updated: Jan 18




Biotech Intern Newsletter: Spotlight on Yusra Mariam


Welcome to another edition of the Biotech Intern Newsletter (BIN). Today, we’re thrilled to feature Yusra Mariam, a former intern at Biogen, who shares her inspiring journey into the world of industrial biotech.


Internship Snapshot

  • Location: On-site

  • How It Started: Discovered through LinkedIn


A Day in the Life

During her internship, Yusra played a critical role in early drug discovery by analyzing protein samples using mass spectrometry methods. This hands-on experience not only honed her technical skills but also introduced her to the inner workings of industrial biotech.


Lessons from the Lab

  • Biggest Learning: "No job is secure, and layoffs are a part and parcel of the job."Yusra shares this important lesson about the reality of the industry, highlighting the need for adaptability and resilience in biotech careers.

  • Best Advice Received: "Ask questions no matter how silly they sound and find out the why’s and how’s behind research." This simple yet profound advice shaped her internship experience and fueled her curiosity in the lab.

  • Wish She Knew Before Starting: "That six months go by in the blink of an eye. I wish I had incorporated as much learning as I could."


The Fun and the Challenges

  • Most Fun: Experiencing the transition from desk work to hands-on lab work every day was a unique thrill for Yusra, making her first industrial experience unforgettable.

  • Biggest Struggle: Learning the complexities of mass spectrometry without prior experience. While she didn’t fully master it during her internship, the foundation she built helped her succeed in her current full-time role.

  • Key Lesson from Struggles: "Advocate for your own research and always think outside the box."


The People Who Made It Great

Yusra credits her manager, Luna Zhang, for her success during the internship. Luna’s determination to teach and her unwavering positivity made a lasting impact, proving the importance of mentorship for budding professionals.


Words of Wisdom for Future Interns

  • Advice for New Interns: "Make the most of this experience. It shapes you for the future, where job roles become more independent and responsibilities grow."

  • Focus Areas for Interns: Building a skill set to work independently while contributing to team success.


Rapid-Fire Favorites

  • Coffee or Tea? Tea

  • Online Meetings or In-Person Meetings? In-Person Meetings

  • Mountains or Beaches? Mountains


Yusra Mariam’s story is a testament to the power of curiosity, determination, and mentorship. Her journey at Biogen exemplifies how internships serve as the stepping stone to a rewarding career in biotech.



Are you ready to share your story and inspire the next generation of interns? Submit your entry to the Biotech Intern Newsletter today and join our growing community of innovators!

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