Rashaan is a Massachusetts native, born and raised in Boston. He has over a decade of experience in hospitality and customer service. With a long-standing passion for math and science, he had been looking for opportunities to enter the life sciences industry but was facing challenges with getting interviews. He found Bioversity through a family friend and was accepted into the first cohort of its Biotech Career Foundations eight-week training program. He graduated in March 2024 and has been in his role at Unity Lab Services, a division of Thermo Fisher Scientific, since May 2024.
In his role as Senior Site Specialist, Rashaan was contracted by Unity Lab Services to work at Eli Lilly and Company, a leading organization in the pharmaceutical industry. In his work for Eli Lilly at their Seaport location, Rashaan specializes in chemical and inventory management, providing day-to-day support for a variety of labs and scientists so they can get their work done efficiently.
Rashaan’s role as a mentor is a major part of his journey. As the oldest grandchild of 13, he is determined to set a great example for his family, inspiring them to pursue their dreams even in adversity. Since he started his job, Rashaan has returned to Bioversity regularly to share his story with current students, offer advice about the job search, and discuss what it’s like to work in lab operations. Rashaan is regularly featured on STEM panels in the Boston area and serves as a mentor to high school students through Eli Lilly’s mentor program.
Bioversity has been supported through $750,000 in funding to train 65 students through the Massachusetts Life Science Center’s (MLSC) Pathmaker program.
The MLSC’s Pathmaker program funds industry-aligned training programs that address critical skills and talent supply gaps and connects skilled, diverse workers with life science career opportunities in Massachusetts. The program is currently accepting applications. Click here to learn more.
