Fills a newly created role, Manager of Student Success and Advancement

On July 7th, Bioversity welcomed a new employee, Marcus Johnson. We’re thrilled to grow our team and provide additional, intensive, individualized support to Bioversity’s students as they go through our training programs, undertake a job hunt after graduation, and get settled into a new industry and new career. Marcus brings a wealth of experience in non-profit and career counseling and has already made a big impact on Bioversity.

We interviewed Marcus about his experience, his new role, and what excites him most about the opportunity.

Tell us about yourself and your background – what were you doing before Bioversity? 

Before joining Bioversity, I worked in the Community Investments department at an investment management firm. My main focus was designing and implementing a summer internship program specifically for first-generation college students. The goal was to provide opportunities to young people who may not have the networks or access to break into the financial industry.

Prior to that role, I worked at several community-based nonprofits in both Boston and Atlanta. In Boston, I worked with organizations like the Boys and Girls Clubs of Dorchester, Literations, and Playworks, all with a focus on youth development and mentorship

Tell us about your role at Bioversity. What will you be focusing on, and what excites you most about the job? 

I’m the Manager of Student Success and Advancement, a brand-new role at Bioversity. I’ll be supporting graduates with ongoing career development, especially helping them navigate the job search and break into the life sciences industry.

What excites me most about this role is the opportunity to guide people toward achieving their long-term goals. I really enjoy helping others see and reach their full potential, especially when they’re not sure they can get there themselves.

What’s one project or achievement from your previous jobs that you’re particularly proud of? 

I’ve always worked closely with young people, and one thing I’m proud of is the lasting relationships I’ve built. Many of them still reach out for advice, whether it’s professional, personal, or just to check in. Watching them grow and knowing I’ve been a consistent, trusted presence in their lives means a lot to me.

How do you think your background and skills will contribute to Bioversity’s mission? 

I’m a big believer in the value of lived experience. My background mirrors that of many Bioversity participants — I grew up in a community with limited resources and access, which allows me to connect with them authentically and help them see their potential. I want them to know they can be an asset to any organization they join, and that their experiences are powerful, not limiting.

What’s something unexpected or interesting about you that colleagues might be surprised to learn about you? 

I was born and raised in Chicago, and despite living in Boston for over a decade, I’m still a diehard fan of every Chicago sports team. I just can’t bring myself to root for anyone else — sorry, Boston!