Voices of Innovation
Flavia Scialpi, Director Product R&D at AskBio
In this episode, I speak with Flavia Scialpi, Director of Product R&D at AskBio, about her journey from academia to biotech. From a PhD in Rome to postdoc life in the UK, Flavia shares what motivated her leap into industry via Synpromics, now part of AskBio. We discuss leaving academia, adapting to industry culture, leading scientific teams, and staying curious along the way – a candid chat for anyone weighing a move from lab to biotech.
Søren Ottosen, VP of Research at Sixfold Bioscience
In the second episode of Voices of Innovation, I chat with Søren Ottosen, VP of Research at Sixfold Bioscience. We explore his journey across academia, pharma, and biotech, and what it takes to lead diverse international teams in RNA therapeutics. Søren also shares his insights on leadership, team culture, and motivating scientists in a startup environment.
Manuela, VP of Biology
In the this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Manuela, VP of Biology at a UK biotech, about her journey from academia in Spain to leadership roles in biotech.
We explore what first drew her to science, her bold transition into industry, and how a deep sense of curiosity has guided her through the many stages of drug development. Manuela also shares her reflections on leadership, scientific culture, and why—despite everything—it’s the thrill of drug discovery that continues to inspire her most.
Mark Chadwick, Life Science Startup Specialist
In this episode, I speak with Mark Chadwick – biotech CEO with a background in gene therapy – about his transition from academia to industry, and how he moved from R&D into commercial and leadership roles. We explore what it takes to go from scientist to startup CEO, lessons learned along the way, and the importance of self-awareness when navigating career choices.
Don’t miss it if you’re thinking about exploring more commercial roles beyond the bench – this one’s packed with insight and lived experience!
Ada Chalkidou, Life Science Recruiter
BEHIND THE SCENES EDITION
In this episode, I chat with Ada Chalkidou, Senior Associate at Cavenagh Health — a firm specialising in executive recruitment and venture building for biotech startups.
Even though I’ve worked in this space with Ada for years, I put myself in your shoes — coming into the conversation with fresh curiosity and asking the kinds of questions you might have. Like: how are hiring decisions really made? What do candidates often miss? And how can scientists talk about their work in a way that makes sense to industry?
Welcome!
Are you a scientist passionate about the innovative and fast-paced world of life science startups? You’re in the right place!