Skills in bioinformatics and medical informatics have particular cachet with industry. And while firms have a large choice of individuals trained solely in molecular biology, a combination of molecular biology training with an emphasis on protein chemistry, computational chemistry, or proteomics has strong appeal. Corporations also seek candidates who can demonstrate their ability to participate in projects that involve plenty of teamwork. When they identify the life scientists they want, California companies are prepared to go the extra kilometer to persuade them to sign them on. Several offer their scientists stock options as soon as they join the firm.
Companies often provide relocation help far beyond the usual transportation and moving expenses.
Because of the high cost of housing in California, employers frequently refer new hires to real estate agents, steer them to suitable rental properties, or find creative ways to provide assistance for down payments on houses. And increasingly, life science corporations help recruits' spouses or significant others to find jobs, thus overcoming a common barrier to relocating. Here, we discuss the tight job market for life scientists in California, and the ways in which job seekers can benefit from it. We talk to an academic career guidance officer and to representatives of three companies in the market for highly skilled life science talent. So life science companies in California are working hard to emphasize the career benefits that they offer recruits, to highlight the advantages and reduce the disadvantages of living in the state, and to help smooth the way for significant others to remain with recruits.