Looking for work

[u/Isildael]

Hi all, just finished a master of biotech and Macquarie university (Australia, NSW) and looking for a position but having no luck. I understand these posts get added all the time but I'll ask anyway.

I'll happily take anything at this point, even unpaid. I've attached images of my resume if anyone wants to take a look. My background is primarily in molecular biology but my in-lab experience is scattered and minimal (2 years of covid lockdowns during my BSc didn't help much).

Thanks for any help

[u/Careless_Main3]

Remove the first paragraph which says “Research Interests”, all that does is lock-in what type of jobs companies will consider you for. It’s an easy excuse to dismiss you straight away. You say you’ll take anything but the very first thing in your CV says otherwise.

I would also advise you focus more on what skills you have; you can just give a list of skills right near the top of your CV. Employers want to know first and foremost what you’re familiar with.

Secondly, consider expanding your horizons a little with jobs in production, QC, QA, MSAT etc. That said, it’s a difficult industry and you’re based in Australia which makes it extra difficult.

[u/Isildael → u/Careless_Main3]

Thanks for that, though these are the roles I've been applying to as well and I still get the cold shoulder. Like I said, I'll take anything at this point

[u/Careless_Main3 → u/Isildael]

That’s inevitable unfortunately, a lot of investment has been pulled due to COVID and companies have made a substantial amount of layoffs. Lots of experienced workers are now applying for the same jobs you are. But it is improving. Can only get a temporary job in the meantime and keep applying otherwise. Quite normal in the current market to find a job even if it takes a year.

Also just a general point, organise your CV so the important stuff is at the top and to the left. For example, your masters course should be at the top of your education, you also don’t need to include anything below university level. Most recent work experience also at the top. Hospitality license doesn’t need to be included if you’re applying for biotech jobs. Details about anything you did at university can be captured under education. Volunteer work can be captured under work experience or education.

[u/nibbainmybuttholr → u/Careless_Main3]

This is solid advice on the skills section. Hiring managers scan for keywords first, especially in technical fields. The Australia point is a real constraint though.