Can you tell us about your professional journey and the path that led you to your current role?
I credit my journey in the pharmaceutical industry to my first role in industry as part of the Process Development Rotational Program at Genentech. My undergraduate studies in chemical engineering were not focused on human health, biology, or pharmaceuticals - and until I started a job search my senior year, I hadn't thought about a career path in this industry. This first role emphasized for me how important it was for me personally to be engaged not just in the technical aspects of my career, but to also be motivated and inspired by the broader impact on human health and society. My initial exposure to pharmaceutical development in a cross-functional rotational program also instilled a foundational appreciation for interdisciplinary collaboration and the value of a comprehensive understanding of the broader aspects of both product and clinical development.
From this initial foray into the industry, my career path has taken me a number of new places, including service as a Peace Corps Volunteer teaching chemistry in Mozambique, graduate school in the UCSF-UC Berkeley joint PhD program in bioengineering, and various roles in formulation and process development in the biopharmaceutical industry. In my current role I've pivoted my focus to product development for oral solid dosage forms as a service provider (CDMO). I've been in my current role for almost 7 years, and the experience so far has been just as dynamic and educational as my career to this point.
What has been the most rewarding part of your work in pharmaceutical sciences?
There are three broad aspects of my work that keep me engaged and excited about being a part of this industry.
The first is the direct and future impact on human health. I'm always excited about being a part of a team that brings new options to patients that address unmet needs.
The second is the satisfaction and motivation that I derive from problem solving. The field of pharmaceutical sciences and product development is rife with challenging problems that need solving, so my mind never stops, and I know I'll never be bored.
The third is the opportunity for innovation. To me, opportunities for innovation show up on multiple levels - for example, doing what we do today, better or the development and implementation of something novel that pushes the boundaries of what's considered possible. In my current role I am encouraged to pursue innovation on both of these axes, and truly appreciate that opportunity.
How has your AAPS membership contributed to your career and professional development?
AAPS has been an important part of my career and professional development in a number of ways. Attending and participating in the annual meetings and the regional discussion groups has been an incredible opportunity for not only education and exposure, but also for networking and experience. Engagement in the AAPS communities has also been an enriching experience for connecting with like-minded members with similar interests and experience in addition to connecting with those who have expertise in areas in which I hope to grow.
Explain your involvement in AAPS. How have these experiences influenced your work and professional relationships?
I've had the opportunity to engage with AAPS as a conference participant and speaker in past years on both technical topics and career development, a co-host for a special poster session, and as Engagement Director and now Vice Chair of the AAPS Global Health Community. We've also participated in the PharmSci 360 conference tradeshow as a vendor, so I've had the opportunity to host a booth to promote our business. I've had the privilege to join the Mentorship Breakfast and Women in Science Breakfast at PharmSci 360 several times. These experiences have helped to create opportunities for professional growth and networking, and I look forward to becoming even more engaged with AAPS communities and programming in future years.
Can you share any memorable mentorship experiences, either as a mentor or mentee—that have shaped your career?
I've been fortunate to benefit from the mentorship and sponsorship of so many incredible people throughout my career from both formal and informal connections with mentors. Sometimes though, the most impactful experiences find us in unexpected ways. In 2023, at the AAPS PharmSci 360 conference in Boston, I found myself one evening in the company of three incredible women - all well known in the field, well respected, and actively engaged throughout the community - true role models for any early- or mid-career professional. Hearing them discuss not only the challenges that they've faced, and often still face, as women leaders in our industry, but also the hope that they have for a different future for the next generation of leaders was truly inspiring. We all know that pursuing a career in pharmaceutical sciences is rewarding yet challenging - on many levels - and being reminded that resilience, hope, and perseverance are required for success on both our technical and professional endeavors is important.
What advice would you offer to other pharmaceutical scientists or those looking to make an impact?
Be purposeful in seeking out opportunities and proactive in creating them by leveraging every aspect of your professional life. Before saying no, pause and reflect—stay engaged with intention. There are countless chances to develop and apply the skills essential for success; it's up to us to recognize and seize them.