I started out in the CAR T-space at a company with about 500 people. It was a nice introduction to how industry worked in a place where I could directly apply my skill set while learning new things. While working there, I was the technical lead for one of our top oncology programs from discovery to IND readiness. Now, I work at a startup company trying to solve some of the major problems in the CAR T-space to make the therapy more accessible for patients.
When I first started out in industry five years ago, I was mainly in the lab, designing and running experiments. As I gained more experience, I became a manager, which I love!. I gained responsibilities for leading research teams and strategizing our lead program. I am not in the lab anymore, but I'm still involved in the experiments and directing our T-cell research program.
What are some typical day-to-day responsibilities you have, or decisions you make?
I spend my days attending meetings or doing desk work. Typically, I work with folks on experimental design, data interpretation and project development. I make decisions for the next steps in our T-cell biology program and create growth opportunities for my team’s career development.
What is your favorite part of your job? What are your job's biggest challenges?
I have three main parts of my job that I really love: the science, the people and our patients. It’s amazing to be able to develop science that has the goal of translating to the clinic while at the same time helping folks advance their careers and reach their potential. It’s really rewarding and combines scientific creativity with people management.
