Christopher S.
About me
| Christopher S. | |
| Biology | |
| Molecular Cell Biology | |
| Research Postgraduate | |
| Langwith | |
| 2001 | |
| United Kingdom |
My employment
| Director, Translational Medicine (Oncology) | |
| Immuno-oncology clinical stage biotech | |
| United Kingdom | |
| Healthcare | |
| Medium-size business (50-249 employees) | |
| 2019 |
More about Christopher
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A day in the life of a Director, Translational Medicine (Oncology) in the United Kingdom
I was passionate about cancer research and spent many years in the lab. However I became really interested in how the science was translated in the clinic. Seeing new drugs benefit patients is really amazing.
Briefly describe the organisation you work for
Immuno-oncology clinical stage biotech
What do you do?
I work with their scientists and biomarker specialists to design first time in human clinical trials for cancer patients. This requires me to understand the science but to also fully understand the clinical side in terms of safety and how to get proof of concept clinical data as quickly as possible. If the drug is not good I need to make that call as this saves money. Clinical development, even small early stage studies, cost 10s of millions.
Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?
I was passionate about cancer research and spent many years in the lab. However I became really interested in how the science was translated in the clinic. Seeing new drugs benefit patients is really amazing.
Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?
A little yes. When I first graduated I looked at scientific sales roles because I wasn't sure if I had what it took to do a PhD. However, I am really glad I stuck with it.
Describe your most memorable day at work
February 2005 when a medical colleague walked into the office and showed me the first clinical data sets for abiraterone in prostate cancer. This is now a widely used drug and has benefitted hundreds of thousands of patients.
Are there any challenges associated with your job?
It's super stressful. Biotechs never have much money so we have to be super lean in how we develop our drugs. It's go one second and stop the next. Oncology is also a highly competitive field so you have to be adept at designing differentiated clinical trials that might beat the others or find a niche that no one else has thought of. Creativity is important.
What’s your work environment and culture like?
Really great fun! We work hard but play hard too. We have a lot of scientists in their twenties so they help keep the culture really vibrant.
What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?
I'll be honest - not many at all. I partied far too much.
What would you like to do next with your career?
I would like to have my own clinical development consultancy focusing on oncology. This would give me more freedom. However, I do have a dream to run a campsite in France, so who knows!
What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?
Do what you love. Never do anything for the money, it won't make you happy.
What topics from students are you happy to answer questions on?
Anything, just hit me up.
Next steps...
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