Inside BTG: A look at real-world biotech

Earlier this week, students from the Faculty of Life Sciences participated in an educational tour of the BTG biotechnology facility in the Be'er Tuvia industrial zone. Accompanied by the Faculty's Career Advisor, Daphna Gofer, the visit offered participants a direct encounter with industrial manufacturing and commercial research.

The tour, organized by the Faculty's Career Club, drew high interest right from the registration phase, proving once again how much value students place on direct connection with the industry. BTG (a Ferring Company) is considered a leading biotechnology center of excellence in Israel, focusing on several key areas that impact millions of patients worldwide:

• Fertility and Women's Health: The Israeli plant manufactures advanced therapeutics for ovarian stimulation in fertility treatments, such as Rekovelle.

• Growth Hormones (Genetic Engineering): BTG was a global pioneer in developing and manufacturing recombinant human growth hormone (produced via genetic engineering of bacteria) to treat hormone deficiencies.

• Orthopedics and Joint Health: The company manufactures hyaluronic acid-based treatments (such as Euflexxa) designed for joint injection to relieve pain and cartilage wear.

• Contract Development and Manufacturing (CDMO): As a biotech center of excellence, the Israeli site also serves as a contract partner for global pharma companies requiring fermentation, cell culture, and protein purification processes under the strictest medical standards.

The first part of the meeting was dedicated to overviews and presentations by BTG professionals:

• Rotem Shamir, Talent Acquisition Manager, opened with an introduction to the company and highlighted the diverse career paths available to graduates.

• Scientist Dr. Regina Ohayon shared an engaging in-depth lecture on the world of research and the advanced therapeutics developed by the company.

• Elad Edry, Manufacturing Purification Team Lead, spoke about his role leading the protein purification team and explained the site's complex workflows.

Following the presentations, it was time for hands-on learning, and the students split up for practical tours. Dr. Ohayon guided a professional tour of one of the company's active development labs, while Edry led a fascinating tour of the production floor and the manufacturing line itself. The field visits allowed students to see firsthand how theoretical science and academic research translate into life-saving medical products.

The visit was deemed a great success on both sides. The students demonstrated high proficiency and curiosity throughout the day, while the company representatives praised their level of engagement and the professional questions raised during the sessions. For the Life Sciences Career Club, this visit is part of an ongoing series of activities designed to connect students with the forefront of the biotech industry, expand their professional network, and provide a practical glimpse into the roles awaiting them after graduation.