- Navigating Your Biopharma Career: A Masterclass with Recruiter Kristiaan Rawlings
Summary
In this episode, Kristiaan Rawlings discusses the 2024-2025 Commercial Market Update and Salary Guide produced by EPM Scientific. The life sciences sector remains resilient due to aging populations, scientific advances, and robust investment. Hiring practices and compensation are influenced by these factors across the Americas, Europe, and APAC regions. The hiring focus has shifted from life-threatening diseases to more common health issues, such as dermatology and respiratory diseases. The most in-demand roles include marketing, commercial operations (salesforce effectiveness, commercial analytics, and training), and sales. Market access roles have seen less demand. Despite the availability of talent, salaries have remained high or even increased. In this conversation, Kristiaan Rawlings discusses the current trends in the life sciences job market, specifically in the commercial operations field. He explains the increase in demand for talent, the impact of title deflation, and the rise in salaries. He also highlights the regional differences in job opportunities, with a shift towards the East Coast of the United States. Additionally, he touches on the importance of executive presence and the return of in-person networking events. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the life sciences job market.
Chapters
00:00 High Demand for Marketing Roles
04:26 Focus on Core Areas with Existing Blockbuster Products
05:53 Sought-After Skills for Commercial Operations and Product Launches
13:54 Challenges with LinkedIn Applications and Fake Job Postings
24:25 Selective Market Based on Therapy Area and Experience
24:51 The Three Pillars of Focus: Salesforce Effectiveness, Commercial Analytics, and Training
25:21 High Demand for Talent in Incentive Compensation, Analytics, and Competitive Intelligence
26:17 Sales Roles in High Demand During Product Launches
26:46 Quiet Market in the Field of Market Access
27:14 Salaries Holding Strong or Increasing Despite High Supply of Talent
32:30 Geography Becoming Less of a Factor in Salary and Opportunity
41:08 High Demand for Medical Affairs and Health Economics
44:01 The Importance of Executive Presence and Networking for Career Success
Resources
S1E11 - 49m - May 6, 2024 - Pioneering Precision: Kira Dineen on Genetics' Role in Tailored Therapies
Summary
In this episode, hosts Ian Wendt and Dr. Na-Ri Oh , and guest Kira Dineen discuss the intersection of genomics and healthcare. They explore the concept of personalized medicine and how advancements in genomics are revolutionizing healthcare. Kira shares her personal journey and the inspiration behind her DNA Today podcast. The conversation delves into the technology behind personalized medicine and the challenges of building comprehensive genetic databases. The ethical considerations of genomics, including access to information and the potential misuse of genetic data, are also explored. The episode concludes with a discussion on the need for ethical frameworks to keep pace with technological advancements in genomics. The conversation explores the controversial topic of gene editing, particularly the use of CRISPR technology. The hosts discuss the ethical considerations and the choice of genetic targets for editing. They also touch on the accessibility and long-term consequences of CRISPR. The conversation then shifts to the cost of treatment and the role of genetic testing in drug development. The potential of AI in genetic research is explored, as well as the future of personalized medicine. The episode concludes with a discussion on professional motivation and the importance of networking.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Kira Dineen and the Intersection of Genomics and Healthcare
02:07 Genomics and Personalized Medicine
04:13 Kira Dineen's Personal Journey and the DNA Today Podcast
08:08 The Trend Towards Personalized Medicine in Biopharma
10:11 The Technology Behind Personalized Medicine
12:39 Building Databases and Overcoming Barriers
15:18 Ethical Considerations in Genomics
20:39 Ethics and the Use of Genetic Information
24:06 Ethics Keeping Pace with Technological Advances
25:44 Managing Ethical Considerations in Genetic Research
27:21 Controversial Gene Editing
28:18 Choosing Genetic Targets
29:10 Ethical Considerations
29:44 Accessibility of CRISPR
30:13 Long-Term Consequences of CRISPR
32:51 Healthcare Equity and Cost of Treatment
34:25 Cost of Genomic Sequencing
35:22 Genetic Testing and Drug Development
38:13 Role of Genetic Testing in Clinical Trials
42:20 AI in Genetic Research
46:34 Future of Personalized Medicine
49:56 Professional Motivation and Networking
Resources:
- Kira Dineen, MS, LCGC, CG(ASCP)CM (LInkedIn, Twitter)
- DNAtoday.com
- Breath from Salt (DNA Today author interview Episode #147)
- Maury Povich interview on DNA Today
- Patient Empowerment Program: A Rare Disease Podcast
S1E10 - 53m - Apr 22, 2024 - Venture Capital & Biopharma: Jim Trenkle on Pioneering Health Innovation
Dive into the high-stakes world of Venture Capital in biopharma with Jim Trenkle! Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn groundbreaking scientific discoveries into life-saving treatments? What role do venture capitalists play in this thrilling journey from the lab to the clinic? This episode peels back the curtain on the biopharma venture capital scene, revealing the risks, rewards, and radical innovations driving the future of healthcare. Join hosts Dr. Na-Ri Oh and Ian Wendt as they explore with Jim the secrets of successful biopharma investments, the challenges of navigating the complex landscape of medical research funding, and the thrilling potential of the next big breakthroughs. Don't miss this conversation that could change the way you see medicine and innovation.
In this episode, Jim Trenkle, a partner at Nova Holdings, shares insights on venture capital in the biopharma industry. He explains the different stages of investment, from seed rounds to IPOs, and the role of venture capitalists in providing capital and expertise.
Jim discusses the current state of raising capital for biotech startups, including the impact of interest rates and market conditions. He also highlights the challenges and evaluation criteria in biotech VC, emphasizing the importance of a well-thought-out plan and addressing unmet needs.
Jim Trenkle also discusses his own career path and the importance of finding work that has a deeper impact. He shares his journey from being a medicinal chemist to venture capital, highlighting the value of lifelong learning and broadening one's impact. Trenkle also discusses the challenges and skills required in venture capital, emphasizing the need for humility and the ability to make decisions that have a real impact. He reflects on the lessons learned from the Theranos scandal and the role of venture capitalists in evaluating companies.
Trenkle explores the reasons behind company closures and failures in the biopharma industry and the potential for innovation and technological advances to shape the future of venture capital. He concludes with advice on career growth and the importance of following one's passion.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction of Jim Trankel
01:01 Understanding Venture Capital in BioPharma
07:59 The Current State of Raising Capital for Biotech Startups
11:23 The Landscape of Biotech Funding
16:25 Challenges and Evaluation in Biotech VC
23:16 What Does Good Look Like and Pitfalls to Avoid
31:19 Jim Trankel's Career Path
31:59 Career Path and Impact
35:19 Challenges and Skills in Venture
37:05 Evaluating Companies and Capital Allocators
38:23 Lessons from Theranos
46:01 Company Closures and Failures
52:42 The Future of VC in Biopharma
58:32 Advice and Mentors
Resources
- Jim Trenkle, PhD (LinkedIn)
- Novo Holdings
S1E9 - 53m - Apr 8, 2024 - Decoding HEOR: Iris Tam's Insights on Pharma's Value-Based Future
Join us on a deep dive into the world of Health Economics and Outcomes Research (HEOR) with the remarkable Iris Tam, PharmD, a luminary in value-based evidence generation within the biopharma industry. In this episode, our hosts Ian and Na-Ri explore with Iris the critical role of HEOR in transforming today's pharmaceutical landscape, from drug development to global marketing strategies and beyond.
Unpacking the complexities of HEOR, they delve into its definition, significance, and the evolving importance of this field in aligning drug development with payer expectations and patient outcomes. Iris shares invaluable insights on the key elements that payers scrutinize in HEOR studies, and the strategic considerations essential for successful global product launches.
Ethical considerations in HEOR research also take center stage, highlighting the responsibility of ensuring integrity and patient-centricity in evidence generation. For professionals eager to make their mark in HEOR or advance their careers, Iris offers sage advice, emphasizing the need for robust data, the value of learning from post-mortems, and the art of using failures to forge successful future strategies.
This episode is not just an exploration of HEOR's impact on healthcare but a guide to understanding the challenges of demonstrating product value and the crucial role of user adoption. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, Iris's journey and insights offer inspiration and guidance for navigating the complexities of HEOR in the biopharma industry.
Chapters
- 00:00 Introduction of Iris Tam
- 02:08 Definition and Significance of HEOR
- 04:07 Evolution and Increasing Role of HEOR
- 07:49 Components of HEOR: Health Economics and Outcomes Research
- 10:26 Impact of HEOR on Drug Development and Marketing Strategies
- 25:46 Key Elements for Payers in HUR Studies
- 38:47 Considerations for HUR in Global Launches
- 41:35 Ethical Considerations in HUR Research
- 46:41 Skills and Experiences for Success in HUR
- 51:49 The importance of user adoption
- 52:01 Learning from post mortems
- 53:01 Using failures to inform future strategies
- 53:55 The challenge of proving product benefits
- 54:23 Closing thoughts and advice
Resources:
S1E8 - 49m - Mar 25, 2024 - Redefining Fertility Care: Shelley Bailey's Journey with Famlee
Dive into the world of fertility with Shelley Bailey, the visionary founder and CEO of Famlee Fertility, on our latest episode. Discover Shelley's personal journey that led to the creation of Famlee, a company revolutionizing the fertility landscape with its home-based testing and clinical treatments aimed at empowering women to understand and enhance their fertility.
In this enlightening conversation, Shelley unravels the role of Famlee in supporting women through their fertility treatment journey, debunking common myths and misconceptions that surround fertility. Learn about the holistic approach and tailored treatment plans Famlee offers, designed to balance hormones and improve fertility from the comfort of home.
Tune in to gain valuable insights into overcoming fertility challenges, the importance of personalized care, and the future of fertility treatments. Whether you're navigating your own fertility journey or simply interested in the innovations transforming women's health, this episode promises to enlighten, inspire, and empower.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Shelley Bailey and Famlee Fertility
04:02 Shelley's Personal Journey and Inspiration for Starting Famlee
09:47 The Role of Famlee in the Fertility Treatment Journey
14:38 Positioning Famlee in the Healthcare Landscape
17:10 Common Myths and Misconceptions about Female and Male Fertility
23:39 The Journey with Famlee: Holistic Approach and Treatment Plan
32:47 Challenges Faced as a Founder in the Fertility Sector
42:15 Future Plans and Expansion for Famlee
43:49 Mentors and Inspiration in Shelley's Entrepreneurial Journey
Resources:
- Shelley Bailey, CEO and Founder of Famlee
- **Understanding Fertility: The Basics** - HHS Office of Population Affairs: Explore fundamental aspects of fertility, including menstrual cycle and fertility awareness.
https://opa.hhs.gov/adolescent-health/reproductive-health/understanding-fertility-basics
- **RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association**: Offers detailed information on the female reproductive system and resources for managing infertility stress and relationships. Support groups and professional help are also available.
https://resolve.org/what-are-my-options/understanding-infertility/
- **Female Fertility: Why Lifestyle Choices Count - Mayo Clinic**: Provides insights into how lifestyle choices impact fertility and offers practical tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle to improve fertility.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/fertility/art-20047584
- **Fertility.com**: Contains comprehensive information about female fertility facts, age, and the reproductive system, including the menstrual cycle and the male’s role in conception.
https://us.fertility.com/female-fertility
- **Your Fertility**: Offers a range of fact sheets on topics like the effects of caffeine, alcohol, and smoking on reproductive outcomes, understanding ovulation, and the role of exercise in improving fertility.
https://www.yourfertility.org.au
- **Infertility 101 from RESOLVE**: Provides an overview of infertility basics, along with support options, including online communities and advocacy information.
S1E7 - 44m - Mar 10, 2024 - A Surgeon General's Perspective: Dr. Adams on Health Innovation and Equity Challenges
Dr. Jerome Adams, the 20th US Surgeon General, discusses various topics related to public health, including Operation Warp Speed, diversity in clinical trials, improving healthcare access and outcomes, addressing health inequities, collaborative approaches in healthcare, challenges with pricing models, the importance of prevention and health literacy, and lessons learned from COVID-19.
In this conversation, Dr. Jerome Adams discusses the impact of political pandering on public health messaging and the erosion of trust in the CDC. He emphasizes the need for proper funding and communication in the CDC to effectively respond to public health crises. Dr. Adams also highlights the importance of practical information and listening to the public, as well as supporting public health workers. He suggests protecting the independence of CDC directors and Surgeon Generals to instill trust in the organization.
The conversation also touches on the reputation of the pharma industry and the paradox of trust and distrust in public health organizations. Dr. Adams concludes by sharing his guiding principles of caring and finding common ground.
Takeaways
- Operation Warp Speed was a significant achievement in public health, demonstrating the collaboration between the public and private sectors to develop and distribute COVID-19 vaccines.
- Diversity in clinical trials is crucial to ensure that medications and treatments are effective for all populations.
- Improving healthcare access and outcomes requires a holistic approach that addresses social determinants of health and promotes health equity.
- Collaboration between different stakeholders, including the government, private industry, and the community, is essential to drive positive change in healthcare.
- Pricing models in the pharmaceutical industry need to be reevaluated to ensure the affordability and accessibility of medications for all individuals. Political pandering can have a detrimental impact on public health messaging and erode trust in public health organizations.
- Proper funding and communication are essential for the CDC to respond to public health crises effectively.
- Practical information and listening to the public are crucial in public health communication.
- Supporting and retaining public health workers is vital for a strong public health infrastructure.
- Protecting the independence of CDC directors and Surgeon Generals can help build trust in the organization.
- The pharma industry needs to address issues of inequity and community engagement to improve public perception.
- There is a paradox of trust and distrust in public health organizations, which requires addressing underlying issues.
- Caring and finding common ground are important guiding principles in public health work.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jerome Adams
02:18 Discussion on Operation Warp Speed
05:34 Importance of Diversity in Clinical Trials
09:52 Improving Healthcare Access and Outcomes
18:03 Addressing Health Inequities
23:35 Collaborative Approach in Healthcare
25:30 Challenges with Pricing Models
30:21 Importance of Prevention and Health Literacy
35:06 Lessons Learned from COVID-19
45:57 The Impact of Political Pandering
46:53 The Perception of Political Leanings
47:40 The Erosion of Trust in the CDC
49:27 The Need for Proper Funding and Communication in the CDC
51:51 The Importance of Practical Information and Listening to the Public
53:25 The Importance of Supporting Public Health Workers
54:16 Protecting the Independence of CDC Directors and Surgeon Generals
55:47 The Reputation of the Pharma Industry
58:12 The Paradox of Trust and Distrust in Public Health Organizations
01:04:07 Guiding Principles: Caring and Finding Common Ground
Resources:
Operation Warp Speed Resources:
S1E6 - 1h 3m - Feb 26, 2024 - Advocacy in Action: Coy Stout's Vision for Empowered Healthcare
Trying to understand how pharma can effectively partner with patient advocates to support better patient outcomes?
In this episode, Coy Stout discusses his journey in patient advocacy and the intersection of patient advocacy, policy, and social work in the pharma industry. He shares personal stories that motivated him to get involved in the field and highlights the importance of patient-centricity in biotech companies.
Coy also discusses the role of technology in patient advocacy and the challenges and controversies surrounding patient advocacy in diseases like ALS and Alzheimer's. He emphasizes the need for transparency, collaboration, and patient input in decision-making processes, especially when it comes to drug pricing and access. In this episode, Coy Stout shares his insights on patient advocacy and the importance of patient-centered care. He discusses the challenges faced by patients and the need for more diverse representation in healthcare and pharma. Coy also highlights the transformative medicine happening now and the opportunity to bring real-world expertise into the industry. He envisions a future where patients and their caregivers are actively involved in guiding research and commercialization efforts.
Overall, Coy emphasizes the importance of creating space for patients and their communities to contribute to innovation in healthcare.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
01:32 Motivation for Patient Advocacy
04:38 Early Relationships Between Advocacy Groups and Pharma
07:08 Patient-Centricity in Biotech Companies
09:42 Gold Standard of Patient Advocacy
10:51 Intersection of Patient Advocacy and DEI Initiatives
12:45 Engaging Employees in Advocacy
17:34 Role of Technology in Patient Advocacy
20:50 Controversies and Challenges in Patient Advocacy
31:07 Patient Advocacy in ALS and Alzheimer's Disease
38:00 Balancing Patient Advocacy and Drug Pricing
54:53 Closing Remarks
Links:
Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF) offers various patient-friendly resources to empower individuals in leading their healthcare journey. These resources include publications, tip sheets, webinars, and interactive materials2.
The American Medical Association (AMA) is dedicated to advocating for patients’ access to quality healthcare. Physicians actively work to address health disparities and fight for patients’ rights through legislative efforts and legal support.
National Patient Advocate Foundation (NPAF):
The NPAF provides additional resources to support patients in their healthcare experiences.
S1E5 - 52m - Feb 16, 2024 - Engineering Health: Dr. Khalil Ramadi's Vision of Bioengineering and Neuromodulation
Dr. Khalil Ramadi, an assistant professor at New York University Abu Dhabi, discusses the field of bioengineering and his work in neuromodulation and ingestible electronics. He explains that bioengineering encompasses tinkering with biology and physiology, and its focus has shifted from building hardware tools for the clinic to devices that can be implanted in the body.
Dr. Ramadi's interest in neuromodulation stems from the need to improve brain technologies and find non-invasive ways to target specific areas of the body. He also explores the potential applications of neuromodulation in areas such as obesity, eating disorders, and diabetes. The challenges in bioengineering include regulatory issues, access to innovations, and the scalability of devices. In this conversation, Khalil Ramadi discusses the field of bioengineering and its potential impact on healthcare. He shares insights on the future of bioengineering education, emphasizing the need for innovation and commercialization.
Khalil also predicts advancements in personalized care and the potential for new technologies to diagnose and treat diseases. He highlights the importance of finding inspiration and overcoming challenges in the field. Lastly, he introduces Project Prana Foundation, a nonprofit organization focused on developing technologies for decentralized care.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Dr. Khalil Ramadi
03:47 Defining Bioengineering
06:33 Dr. Ramadi's Journey into Bioengineering
10:30 The Role of a Bioengineer
11:56 Focus on Neuromodulation and Ingestible Electronics
16:41 The Gut-Brain Connection
17:26 Applications of Neuromodulation
20:38 Neuralink and the Future of Bioengineering
25:05 Neuromodulation and GLP-1 Agonists
29:27 Challenges in Bioengineering
33:33 The Future of Pharma and Bioengineering
36:18 Ensuring Access to Bioengineering Innovations
40:20 The FLASH Pill and Appetite Stimulation
47:02 The Future of Bioengineering Education
51:10 Predictions for the Next 10 Years
55:00 Finding Inspiration and Overcoming Challenges
58:31 Project Prana Foundation
Resources
Dr. Khalil Ramadi:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/khalil-ramadi/
Ramadi Lab:
Ingestible electronics: Science Robotics paper for gastric stimulation: https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/scirobotics.ade9676
Project Prana: https://www.projectprana.org/isave
Nano Robots Shrink Bladder Cancer:
https://www.irbbarcelona.org/en/news/scientific/nanorobots-shrink-bladder-tumours-90
Light Powered Yeast:
https://www.science.org/content/article/scientists-engineer-first-light-powered-yeast
DNA Detection Advances:
S1E4 - 1h 0m - Jan 25, 2024 - Beyond the Job Title: Mastering the Pharma Job Market with Kristiaan Rawlings
This episode discusses the biopharmaceutical job market and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. It explores the state of the job market, including layoffs and hiring trends in the industry. The conversation also delves into the role of recruiters in the life sciences industry and provides insights into their day-to-day activities.
Additionally, it offers advice for candidates on how to approach working with recruiters and highlights the importance of building long-term relationships. The episode concludes with a discussion on the impact of technology on job applications. In this conversation, Kristiaan discusses the current hot areas in the industry, including GLP-1s, dermatology, neurology, ophthalmology, and respiratory. He also talks about the trend of title deflation and how candidates should focus on the responsibilities and long-term opportunities rather than just the title. Kristiaan provides insights into compensation trends, including base salaries, bonuses, and long-term incentives.
He also addresses the topic of work onsite vs. remote and how companies are expecting employees to be onsite two to three times a week. Finally, he shares advice on charting your path and being willing to do what others won't to achieve your goals.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to the Biopharmaceutical Job Market
02:05 - State of the Job Market and Layoffs in the Biopharmaceutical Industry
03:31 - The Impact of the Great Resignation on the Pharmaceutical Industry
06:07 - The Influence of Disease Areas on Hiring Trends
08:30 - The Commercial Space in the Biopharmaceutical Industry
12:55 - A Day in the Life of a Life Sciences Recruiter
19:33 - Different Approaches and Business Models of Recruiters
24:51 - How Candidates Should Approach Working with Recruiters
27:49 - Building Long-Term Relationships with Recruiters
32:00 - Success Stories of Candidates Who Overcame Challenges
37:13 - The Impact of Technology on Job Applications
43:48 - Hot Areas in the Industry
48:23 - Title Deflation
57:26 - Compensation Trends
01:02:33 - Work Onsite vs. Remote
01:09:01 - Charting Your Path
Resources
S1E3 - 1h 11m - Jan 25, 2024 - Navigating the Ethical Maze: Dr. Arthur Caplan on Bioethics in Modern Medicine
Dr. Arthur Caplan, a distinguished bioethicist, discusses various topics related to bioethics. He highlights the importance of bioethics in areas such as organ transplantation, genetic testing, artificial intelligence, and personalized medicine.
Dr. Caplan emphasizes the need for informed consent in research ethics and the importance of providing research participants with the results of studies. He also addresses the ethical considerations in organ transplantation, including the allocation of scarce resources and the role of living donors. Additionally, he discusses the ethical implications of expensive treatments and the allocation of limited resources in healthcare. The conversation explores the disparity in healthcare attention given to rare diseases compared to chronic conditions. It highlights the need for organized advocacy and lobbying for conditions that lack representation.
The discussion also delves into the balance between investing in genetic therapies for rare diseases and preventive measures for chronic conditions. The ethical considerations of gene editing using CRISPR technology are examined, including the need for monitoring and surveillance of adverse effects. The potential for societal inequalities in access to gene editing is discussed, raising concerns about eugenics and the widening gap between those who can afford the technology and those who cannot.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Dr. Arthur Caplan
01:35 The Importance of Bioethics in Various Areas
09:25 Informed Consent in Research Ethics
17:29 Balancing Scientific Progress and Ethical Considerations in Human Subject Research
33:41 Ethical Considerations in Organ Transplantation
47:22 Healthcare Resource Utilization and Pricing
48:25 Disparity in Healthcare Attention
51:18 Balancing Rare Diseases and Chronic Conditions
53:36 Genetics vs. Environmental Intervention
58:26 CRISPR and Bioethical Concerns
01:05:13 Societal Inequalities in Access to Gene Editing
01:06:03 Inspiration from Ben Franklin
Resources
- Dr. Arthur Caplan
- Succumbing to AI with a whimper, not a bang
- Working Group on Compassionate Use and Preapproval Access (CUPA)
- Vaccine Working Group on Ethics and Policy
- Working Group on Pediatric Gene Therapy & Medical Ethics
- Transplant Ethics and Policy
- If you donate DNA, what should scientists give in return? A ‘pathbreaking’ new model
- Treating the dead; how far ought medicine go to obtain transplantable organs?
- Consideration and Disclosure of Group Risks in Genomics and Other Data-Centric Research: Does the Common Rule Need Revision?
- Research involving the recently deceased: ethics questions that must be answered
- Regaining Trust in Public Health and Biomedical Science following Covid: The Role of Scientists
- Protect newborn screening programs
- Why the Gene Was (Mis)Placed at the Center of American Health Policy
S1E2 - 1h 9m - Jan 25, 2024 - Trailer
Coming January 2024! RealPharma Podcast is your gateway to the world of biopharmaceuticals and healthcare. Your hosts are two industry veterans who engage in in-depth conversations with pharma pathfinders/leaders who are shaping the future of medicine. Hear the stories behind the news that challenge traditional viewpoints and offer fresh perspectives that will make you rethink what you know about the healthcare industry.
S1 - 2m - Dec 9, 2023
