5 Questions with Daniel Nguyen, Ambassador of Buzz and Associate Manager, Talent Acquisition – North America, QIAGEN
December 7, 2023
| This article is part of our 5 Questions With series, one of our ongoing People & Places Features. We love it because despite the consistent questioning, the answers are all unique. Be sure to FOLLOW us on LinkedIn to tell us what you think. |
1. What did you want to be when you grow up? How’d you get from there to here?
When growing up, I always wanted to be a physical therapist. The reason for this is because fitness and playing sports have always been a big part of my life. I played football throughout high school and have been weight training for over ten years.
But, when I attended the University of Maryland in College Park, I took a completely different route. I received my bachelor’s degree in History wanting to go into law. But, I was recommended by a friend to try recruiting as a career. I’ve always enjoyed working and helping others. Recruiting gave me the opportunity to do just that. I started my career at a staffing company, Aerotek and joined their scientific division. From there, I knew I wanted to stay in the biotech industry because of the evolving technology and its impact in patient care.
After leaving Aerotek, I joined QIAGEN to try corporate recruiting and have been here since February 2020. I was just promoted to an Associate Manager in Talent Acquisition earlier this year supporting our commercial positions for North America.
2. How are you helping to build a more connected community?
BioBuzz’s mission is simple: to be more connected. Our regionally-focused storytelling, programs, events, and experiences create, connect, and amplify impact across the life science workforce in growing hubs. We vibe with people who value community and connection like us. We’d love for you to share how you’re building a more connected community… and any support that you need from our community to continue to accomplish this mission.
I have attended career fairs all around the country. This includes Maryland, Boston, and Michigan. In my role as a recruiter, I am passionate about connecting students in the life science industry to open roles here at QIAGEN.
I am also very active on LinkedIn reposting anything not just QIAGEN-related but anything going on in the biotech industry. This allows for anyone in my feed (who is majoring in life sciences/diagnostics) to see how QIAGEN is performing and our impact on the community/environment. I would like to take this opportunity with BioBuzz to continue to attend hiring events to build my network with not just students but with professionals already in the industry.
3. What are currently buzzing about? Anything and everything…
- Current hiring trends in the industry.
- Helping others who have been impacted by layoffs by finding them positions.
- Learning and attending trainings for new managers.
- Promoting QIAGEN’s products in the industry, especially in the Digital PCR space.
4. If you could travel back in time – what early career advice would you give yourself?
- Be patient in finding your career. I changed my mind multiple times before entering recruitment.
- Start a career with something you are passionate in not just for a paycheck.
- When growing in your career, always try to bring others up with you. There really is no “I” in team.
- Try to make an impact just for your own organization but for others as well. Offering any kind of help to others in need will go a long way in your career.
5. FUN question. Any secret talents? Something that would surprise us to know about you?
- I have eight half-siblings all scattered around the US (Maryland, Florida California).
- I once was able to bench press almost double my weight.
- I am a huge nerd for Harry Potter, Star Wars, and Batman.
- Unfortunately, a Washington Commanders fan.
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BioBuzz is a community led, experience focused, biotech and life sciences media and events company. BioBuzz highlights regional breaking news, industry professionals, jobs, events, and resources for business and career growth. Their weekly newsletter is subscribed to by thousands in the BioHealth Capital Region and Greater Philadelphia as the go-to for industry updates.
