Stories and Viewpoints

It has been 15½ years and counting. I am a Senior Manager, Regulatory Science-Oral Solid Dosage Form. I am responsible for regulatory science activities for the medicinal products supplied in Europe and Australia/New Zealand. 

What first interested you in science as a child/growing up?  

My interest in science was manifested in me by my grandfather and got embedded long before I realized. I grew up in a premium technology institute residential campus (Indian institute of Technology) and was always surrounded by people in science. When I started working, I became interested in regulatory science and realized that this careers provided a unique opportunity to know a medicinal product inside out; from initial development right through the product life cycle.  

What advice would you share with young girls who might be considering a career in science?  

Step out in the world and explore fearlessly. Science is all about curiosities, questions and finding answers. I personally believe that gender discrimination must be ousted from one’s own brain before anyone else. A real sense of equality comes when you match up your potential, hard work, passion and commitment to those who are exceptional and inspire you. A sense of accomplishment comes when you outperform yourself and inspire others. Use your power of reason to find solutions and improvements. Give back to humanity. Making a career in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) is a journey: enjoy as you explore, learn and evolve. 

How does your work each day contribute to our commitment of enhancing access for patients? 

My work involves keeping our marketed products updated with the current regulatory requirements. I am also responsible for successful registration of repatriations and other supply critical, cost improvement projects within the stipulated time to avoid any out-of-stock situation. With our focus on supply continuity, we display a commitment to enhancing access for patients.