Detecting cancer as early as possible with help from the M.S. in Biotechnology Program

Though Michael Matter had received several promotions as a bench scientist, his responsibilities were largely the same as before. He knew a master’s degree could boost his career and provide the challenges he was seeking. However, many programs didn’t offer the specific training needed to excel in the biotechnology industry. Then he found the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s Master of Science in Biotechnology Program.

Focused on technology-based entrepreneurship and product development, the M.S. in Biotechnology Program fuses the study of science, law, and business. Evening and weekend classes make it an excellent fit for working professionals such as scientific researchers, attorneys, and business people. With courses taught by UW–Madison and leaders of local biotechnology companies, the program is also an opportunity to learn from the best and network with important decision-makers.

In other words, Matter was sure it was just the program for him.

“I knew that this program would provide me with the skills required to advance my career and allow me to shape my future into what I wanted it to be,” he says.

A new career trajectory

Matter applied what he was learning immediately by working full-time throughout the M.S. in Biotechnology Program. Using his new project management skills, he helped his company complete an operational process transfer from its Wisconsin offices to a new site in California. People took notice, and the trajectory of Matter’s career quickly improved.

About halfway through his studies, Matter accepted a product development position at Exact Sciences in Madison. In this role, he gets to work on something he’s passionate about: molecular diagnostics designed to detect cancer in its early stages.

In addition to expanding his technical skill set with hands-on courses on molecular technologies, Matter prepared for his future with coursework about intellectual property, business strategies, regulations and ethics, and commercialization pathways. He strengthened his skills as a leader and cross-functional communicator while gaining faith in his abilities.

“The MS in Biotechnology Program gave me the confidence to succeed,” he explains.

Learn more about the Master of Science in Biotechnology Program. The program will accept applications for fall 2019 through May 1, 2019, or until the student cohort is full.

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