Future Talent Labs Information 2026
Future Talent Lab 2026
Explore careers. Understand innovation. Build skills for your future.
Delivered by Medilink Midlands as part of the West Midlands Health Technologies Cluster
What will I get from it?
- Discover careers across medtech, life sciences, research, innovation and industry
- Understand innovation and how ideas move from research to real-world impact
- Hear from industry and find out what employers are looking for
- Build transferable skills including teamwork, problem-solving, communication and critical thinking
- Get involved through practical activities and challenges
- Make connections with people working across the sector.
Where could FTL take you?
There are many routes into health and life sciences, including:
- Research & academia
Academic and clinical research, scientific development and more.
- Industry
Medtech, pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, engineering, manufacturing and product development.
- Innovation & entrepreneurship
Start-ups, spin-outs, innovation management and venture creation.
- Professional & specialist roles
Regulatory affairs, intellectual property, commercialisation and many other careers supporting health innovation
What will it cover?
1. From Bench to Bedside - The Journey of Innovation:
How does a research discovery become a real-world healthcare solution? Explore the journey from research to patient impact and the different careers involved along the way.
2. Innovation in Health & Life Sciences:
How do you turn a good idea into something that could make a difference? Explore unmet needs, real-world impact and why intellectual property matters.
3. The Innovation Exchange:
Would you invest in the next big health innovation? Take part in a hands-on investment game and put your critical thinking and teamwork skills to the test.
4. What Skills Matter Beyond Your Degree:
What are employers really looking for? Explore recruitment, transferable skills and how to make your experience stand out when starting your career.
Who is FTL for?
FTL is for students and postgraduates interested in exploring opportunities across health, life sciences, medtech and innovation.
It is particularly useful if you are:
-
·Thinking about your next steps after graduation
·Interested in working in industry
·Curious about careers beyond traditional research
·Interested in innovation or entrepreneurship
·Keen to develop your professional skills
·Simply interested in finding out what’s out there.
What to expect
Thursday 12th November 2026 , 17:00 - 20:00, Gibbet Hill Campus
Around 3 hours | Interactive | Team-based | Industry insight
Expect to work with other students, discuss ideas, solve problems and take part in practical activities – not just listen to presentations.
There may also be an opportunity to stay afterwards to meet industry professionals and ask questions.