Exploring Careers in Venture Capital

What is venture capital?

The field of venture capital (VC) involves investing in early-stage startups and high-growth companies with the intention of receiving a return on investment, usually in the form of equity or ownership stakes. These investors, known as venture capitalists, seek to support companies with innovative ideas and offer strategic guidance, mentorship, and industry connections to help the startups succeed and grow.

What does a career in VC look like?

What makes VC a good fit for people with science PhDs?

How can I transition from the bench to VC?

PhD holders can leverage their specialized knowledge and research skills in VC. To transition, they should:

Gain understanding of the VC industry and its dynamics.
Pursue internships or fellowships in VC firms (fifty/fifty, Nucleate, Evexia)
Network with industry professionals (learn more about networking)
Develop financial and business acumen to follow trends.

You may also want to consider specialized trianing programs, like the Flagship Pioneering Fellowship and the 5AM Fellowship.

What is the difference between consulting and venture capital/entrepreneurship?

Consultation: The primary objective is to help companies solve specific problems, optimize operations, or implement business strategies. Consultants advise on a wide range of issues (e.g., management, operations, technology, finance) and often focus on improving efficiency or restructuring to meet strategic goals.
Venture Capital: In VC, the goal is to invest in early-stage or growth-stage companies with high potential for returns. Venture capitalists aim to identify and support startups that can deliver strong financial returns for their investors.

Find your network

Nucleate is a student-led program with the mission of empowering future life science innovators and has helped form over 100 biotech companies by supporting academic founders in their journeys from lab to market. “My experience in Nucleate has helped me connect with mentors and professionals throughout the life science industry,” says co-president Zach Cogan. Check out the Bay Area chapter of Nucleate and see if it’s a good fit for you.
Check out EVEXIA, another student-led program, to learn more about applying your understanding of biology and medicine to identify value in biotech investment opportunities.

Career Development and Skills

This resource is based on work developed by Trase Aguigam during his internship at the Office of Career and Professional Development in 2024.

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UCSF Office of Career and Professional Development

Exploring Careers in Venture Capital

What is venture capital?

Upcoming Events

OCPD Office Hours (for Graduate Students and Postdocs)

OCPD Office Hours (for Graduate Students and Postdocs)

Career Paths

UCSF Office of Career and Professional Development

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Exploring Careers in Venture Capital

What is venture capital?

Upcoming Events

OCPD Office Hours (for Graduate Students and Postdocs)

OCPD Office Hours (for Graduate Students and Postdocs)

Career Paths