Life Sciences WorkforceCollaborative Launches to Strengthen National Talent Development
The life sciences industry is at a crucial juncture, with rapid technological advancements and talent shortages posing both challenges and opportunities. To address these issues, the Life Sciences Workforce Collaborative (LSWC) has officially launched as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. This bold step aims to unify efforts in strengthening the workforce that powers this innovative industry.
Formerly known as the Coalition of State Bioscience Institutes (CSBI), LSWC made its debut at the 2025 BIO International Convention. Building on years of collaboration among regional bioscience organizations, the Collaborative emerges with a formalized mission to implement impactful, industry-driven workforce solutions that will bolster the sector's growth and sustainability.
MichBio’s Role as a Key Supporter
MichBio is proud to support the LSWC as an Investor-level sponsor, affirming our dedication to developing robust career pathways, fostering educational opportunities, and influencing policy initiatives that facilitate workforce growth. Our involvement reflects a shared commitment to equipping the life sciences industry with the talent it needs to thrive in the years ahead.
A Unified Approach to Workforce Challenges
The LSWC is designed to bring together leaders across industry, academia, government, and philanthropy to address critical talent shortages and prepare the workforce for the future. Its nonprofit status allows for a more cohesive effort to enhance workforce readiness, strengthen partnerships, and align strategies with the demands of a rapidly changing industry landscape.
According to Liisa Bozinovic, Chair of LSWC and Executive Director of the Oregon Bioscience Association, “The Collaborative was built by industry, for industry—with a mission to align and accelerate workforce development nationwide. While recent growth has slowed in some areas, we’re at a pivotal moment. New technologies and evolving business models are driving demand for specialized talent, and this launch allows us to elevate proven models, secure more investment, and position the industry for future growth through support of a stronger national workforce strategy.”
Insights Through Data-Driven Research
A key initiative of the LSWC is the National Life Sciences Workforce Trends Report, a biennial publication developed in partnership with TEConomy Partners and the NSF-funded InnovATEBIO National Biotech Education Center. This report has become the definitive resource for understanding workforce trends, identifying skill gaps, and uncovering new opportunities.
The 2025 edition of the report, which was previewed during the BIO Convention, will be officially released on Tuesday, June 24. Its insights will provide actionable data for stakeholders, helping to shape strategic initiatives and inform decision-making across the sector.
Driving Innovation Through Strategic Partnerships
The Collaborative leverages the support of Investor-level organizations like MichBio, along with other state and regional bioscience associations, to create scalable workforce solutions that address both local and national needs. From convening best-practice roundtables to offering technical assistance and policy guidance, LSWC empowers the industry to tackle workforce challenges head-on.
“State associations and institutes have long led the way in workforce innovation,” said John Conrad, Chair of the Council of State Bioscience Associations (CSBA) and President & CEO of iBIO. “LSWC gives us a shared platform to amplify that work nationally, foster collaboration, and position the U.S. life sciences industry for sustained growth.”
Visit LSWC’s official website to learn more about their mission and more.
