Bridging Academic Learning with Industry Innovation 

Gain Practical, Real-World Exposure to Develop Essential Skills for Careers in Biomanufacturing

What is EXPERIENCE?

EXPERIENCE is dedicated to providing hands-on, immersive learning opportunities that empower HQP (Highly Qualified Personnel) to develop practical skills and gain real-world exposure in biomanufacturing. Through strategic partnerships with leading industries and academic institutions, the EXPERIENCE program fosters collaboration and knowledge transfer, enabling HQP to bridge the gap between their studies and future careers. 

Why Choose EXPERIENCE?

  • Industry-Relevant Exposure: HQP gain invaluable industry exposure through internships with leading biomanufacturing companies, helping to launch their careers. 
  • Comprehensive Learning: The EXPERIENCE program combines academic excellence with hands-on experience, equipping HQP with both technical and commercial skills essential for the biomanufacturing sector. 
  • Networking Opportunities: Access to industry mentors, leading researchers, and professionals in the field, opening doors for career advancement and future collaborations. 

What We Offer

Industry Internships

Our industry internships provide HQP the opportunity to work alongside experts in the biomanufacturing sector. These placements are designed to enhance technical expertise, provide insights into industry trends, and cultivate valuable professional networks. 

  • Eligibility: Available to MSc, PhD, and postdoctoral trainees in the biomanufacturing or related fields. 
  • Duration: Internship opportunities can vary from short-term (4-6 months) to long-term (12m+)  placements. 
  • Funding: Stipends are available for eligible trainees to support their internship experience. 

How to Apply for Industry Internships

List of Eligible Institutions

Initially, the Industry Internship opportunities are available only to trainees from the following institutions, which are current BioHubNet partner institutions. We plan to expand eligibility to additional institutions in the future.

  • Hospital for Sick Children
  • Queen’s University
  • Seneca Polytechnic
  • Sinai Health
  • Sunnybrook Research Institute
  • Toronto Metropolitan University
  • Unity Health Toronto
  • University Health Network
  • University of Guelph
  • University of Toronto
  • University of Waterloo
  • University of Windsor
  • Western University
  • York University

Knowledge Exchange

BioHubNet also facilitates Knowledge exchange, enabling HQP to collaborate with different research groups across disciplines and institutions. These exchanges promote cross-institutional learning, foster innovation, and broaden professional perspectives.

  • Eligibility
    • MSc/PhD students
    • Postdoc fellows
    • Research associates
    • Lab technicians 
    • International Exchanges are NOT eligible for this program
  • Duration
    • 4 or 6 months 
  • Award Categories:  
    • Cross-disciplinary Collaboration
    • New Skills Development
Application Form

Mobility Award

BioHubNet’s Mobility Award supports trainees participating in the EXPERIENCE Program, Knowledge Exchange, and Industry Internship program.  

Eligible trainees who relocate or travel more than two hours to take part in these programs may receive a total up to $10,000 in financial support (application required).  

  • Travel Allowance: Up to $1,000 to support travel expenses for eligible participants in the Knowledge Exchange and Industry Internship programs.  
  • Accommodation Allowance: Up to $1,500 per month to assist with accommodation expenses for eligible participants relocating during the program. 
Mobility Award Application Form

Intern. Exchange. Excel.

Join the BioHubNet talent network and unlock exclusive internship and exchange opportunities in Canada’s growing biomanufacturing sector.

Industry Internship Program – Frequently Asked Questions

I have already graduated/my placement start date will be post graduation. Do I need a support letter from a supervisor?

No. You do not need a support letter from a supervisor to become part of our talent pool. However, if you get an internship offer that requires a Mitacs wage subsidy, we may ask you to identify a PI to support the disbursement of funds. This is because BioHubNet uses Mitacs funding to help subsidize internship wages, and Mitacs can only disburse funds to academic institutions. In these cases, BioHubNet will assist by connecting with the PI to explain the process, address questions, and help guide them through the required steps. 

How is the internship paid?

Internships are funded through a shared model. Employers contribute a minimum of 50% of the internship cost, which is matched by Mitacs. Limited BioHubNet funding may also be available to provide co-funding support, assessed on a case-by-case basis. BioHubNet sets a minimum compensation level depending on your education level. Currently the minimum compensation is 45K/yr for Masters/PhDs and 60K/yr for postdocs.  Employers may choose to top up to offer competitive compensation. 

I am an international student. Do I still qualify for an internship placement?

Yes. As long as you hold a valid visa that permits you to work in Canada for the hours required by the internship placement, you are eligible to participate.  

Can I bring a self-identified internship opportunity into the EXPERIENCE Program?

Yes. If you are eligible to participate in the program, you may bring your own employer. Please note that we may assess the alignment of the employer and the position with our program objectives. If there is a good fit, BioHubNet will directly connect with the employer to provide guidance on partnership requirements and support them as they onboard you through our system. 

How will I know that my application is successful?

When you log in to the Online Training Portal and click the ‘Industry Internship’ tab, you will see click counts on your resume and video. These clicks are from potential employers and can be used as an indicator of how successful your application is.  

Can I update my resume or video after I am admitted to the EXPERIENCE program?

Yes. We send out monthly ‘opt-in’ email. You can upload your updated resume using the link in the email or you can directly send the updated resume and video as per instructions in the email.

Knowledge Exchange Program – Frequently Asked Questions

I am NOT from one of your partner institutions, but the host institution IS one of your partner institutions. Do I qualify?

We review it on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us.

Can international students/postdocs participate in the Knowledge Exchange Program?

As long as you are currently enrolled/hired at one of our partner institutions, with a relevant STEM background, you are eligible to participate.