How do I find users/clients for scientific software?
Some background: I am a CS student, and am currently developing an application for use in the biotech/pharma industry. I want some users and early clients but I am not sure about how to go about the process. The field is really niche, and being sort of an industry-outsider, I am not sure where to make contact with key decision-makers in this area.
Maybe look in your universities bio department and ask around (Learn about future conferences etc.).
It's hard when you aren't in the field or at least connected, you'd risk solving a problem that doesn't exist. However, I suggest the above method, attending meetups if you like in a big city.
You could also go the cold email approach, many startup founders are easily accesible either on twitter or through email. Find some founders and researchers then email (or DM) them asking for advice on your product, don't try to sell. You are likely to get more responses that way.