Mentoring in Pharmaceutical Science with Dr. Jim Shen
Summary
In Episode 21 of BioTalk Unzipped, host Gregory Austin and co-host Dr. Chad Briscoe interview Dr. Jim Shen, the executive director and head of regulated bioanalysis operations at BMS. Jim discusses his early career in bioanalysis and the importance of mentorship. He emphasizes the need to recognize and appreciate the success and expertise of others, as well as the importance of building a network of champions, allies, and sponsors. The conversation also touches on the topic of psychedelics as a drug therapy and the recent retraction of scientific papers on MDMA-assisted therapy. Jim shares his passion for photography, particularly infrared photography, and the resurgence of film photography.
Chapters
01:14 - Jim’s Favorite Publication and His Journey into Bioanalysis
04:15 - Finding Joy in Your Work: Pursuing Your Interests and Making a Difference
05:10 - Early Career in Bioanalysis
07:35 - The Importance of Mentorship and Dealing With Adversaries
17:35 - NEW NEWS: Retraction of Scientific Papers on Drug Therapy
24:55 - Personal Interests: Photography and Gaming
Takeaways
Dr. Shen's journey into bioanalysis highlights the importance of pursuing your interests and finding enjoyment in your work, even if it may not align with your initial plans.
Building a supportive and collaborative community is crucial in the field of bioanalysis, where knowledge sharing and networking play a significant role in advancing research and innovation. Recognize and appreciate the success and expertise of others
Build a network of champions, allies, and sponsors
Be open to new career opportunities and emerging fields
Maintain integrity and transparency in scientific research
Explore different hobbies and interests outside of work
Sound Bites
“Sponsors are those with the power to change your career. Those people don't come along very often, so you need to really grab them when you see them.”
“EQ is so important in being successful in your larger pharmaceutical company.”
“I first tell my staff to divide people into 3 groups, champions, allies, and sponsors.”
“And it is very hard to be in this field, to be a scientist, but you know, it's the people that make it worthwhile.”
New News Story:
Following FDA rejection, a journal retracts papers on MDMA-assisted therapy
How to reach us:
Dr. Jim Shen
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimxshen/
Bristol Myers Squibb - https://www.bms.com/
Dr. Chad Briscoe
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadbriscoe/
Celerion - https://www.celerion.com/
Gregory Austin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregoryaustin1/
ECI -
