E.P.I.C. (Education and Pharmaceutical Industry Collaboration) team’s commitment to mutual benefit, strong communication, and shared leadership has resulted in transformative student experiences and career opportunities for biopharmaceutical science students for almost a decade. The team, a partnership between the Faculty of Biological Sciences at the University of Leeds and the multinational Contract Research Organisation Labcorp (formerly Covance), sought to address critical skills gaps in the biopharmaceutical sector.
Together, Faculty and Labcorp co-design, co-deliver and co-lead the pioneering MSc. in Biopharmaceutical Development that integrates academic excellence with real-world application. Launched in 2016, the programme offers flexible study routes, including full-time, part-time, and placement-based options, catering to both recent graduates and working professionals. Beyond the MSc., E.P.I.C.’s influence has catalysed innovation across the University, inspiring cross-disciplinary Masters programmes in Medicine, Engineering and Business.
The collaboration goes beyond traditional academic-industry engagement, embedding industry expertise directly into curriculum design and delivery. Their work has been nationally recognised, earning two Princess Royal Training Awards (2020, 2023). Nationally, the collaboration has shaped undergraduate pharmaceutical science curricula and contributed to the creation of the Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship Standard. Looking ahead, the team aims to expand its reach through online CPD programmes for industry professionals and global placements for international students. The E.P.I.C. team serves as a model of how sustained, equal partnership between academia and industry can drive educational innovation, address workforce needs, and create lasting societal value.