TRANSITIONING INTO A CAREER
IN THE BUSINESS OF SCIENCE
Maribelis Ruiz, PhD
Maribelis.ruiz@bms.com
May 13, 2011
OUTLINE
 Introduction
– my career track
 Successful
Transitions: Lessons learned
 Managing
your career
MY CAREER TRACK
MEDICAL SCIENCE LIAISON

Medical Affairs Representative in the field,
disease area and product expert






Deliver complex scientific and clinical information to
diverse audience
Engage thought leaders with the company (speakers,
investigators, advisors)
Internal consultant for R&D, sales, and marketing
Competitive intelligence (congress, symposia)
Internal training
Life cycle of the product dictates the amount of
time spent on different activities
VENTURE CAPITAL
Venture firm invests in private companies (do not
trade in stock market) in exchange for an
ownership stake. Actively assist in growth and
obtain return on investment.
 Associate in a Venture Firms







Evaluate business plans
Provide recommendations to the investment committee
on the risks and potential rewards of the investment
Negotiate terms of investment
Follow up portfolio companies on reaching their
milestones
Track the competitive landscape of the portfolio
companies
Identify exit opportunities
Education
Postdoctoral Research Baylor College of Medicine, 2003
Doctorate in Biomedical Sciences- Cancer Biology, University of Texas Houston- MD Anderson
Cancer Center, 2003
Bachelor of Science in Industrial Microbiology, University of Puerto Rico - Mayaguez Campus, 1997
Magna Cum Laude
References
Available upon request
Publications
Maribelis Ruiz, Curtis Pettaway, Renduo Song, Oliver Stoeltzing, Lee Ellis, and Menashe Bar-Eli.
Activator protein-2a inhibits tumorigenicity and represses VEGF transcription in prostate cancer cells.
Cancer Research 2004 January; 64(2):631-8.
Maribelis Ruiz, Patricia Troncoso, Christiana Bruns, and Menashe Bar-Eli. AP-2a Transcription Factor
Expression is Associated with Normal Luminal Differentiation and Lost in Prostate Cancer. Clinical
Cancer Research 2001 December; 7(12):4086-95.
Dina Lev Chelouche, Maribelis Ruiz, Lisa Mills, Eric McGary, Janet E.Price, and Manashe Bar-Eli.
Dacarbazine (DTIC) Causes Transcriptional Upregulation of Interlukin-8 (IL-8) and Vascular Endothelial
Growth Factor (VEGF) in Melanoma Cells. A Possible Escape of Mechanism from Chemotherapy.
Mol Cancer Ther 2003 Aug;2(8):753-63.
Carmen Tellez, Marya McCarty, Maribelis Ruiz and Menashe Bar-Eli. Loss of AP-2 results in
overexpression of the thrombin receptor (PAR-1) and correlates with the malignant phenotype of human
melanoma. J Biol Chem 2003 Nov 21;278(47):46632-42.
Dina Chelouche Lev, Lee Su Kim, Vladislava Melnikova, Maribelis Ruiz, Honnavara N. Ananthaswamy,
and Janet Price. Dual Blockade of EGFR and ERK1/2 phosphorylation potentiates growth inhibition of
breast cancer cells. Br J Cancer 2004 Aug 16; 91(4):795-802.
Dina Chelouche Lev, Amir Onn, Vladislava O. Melinkova, Claudia Miller, Valerie Stone, Maribelis Ruiz,
Eric C. McGary, Honnavara N. Ananthaswamy, Janet E. Price, and Menashe Bar-Eli. Exposure of
Melanoma Cells to Dacarbazine Results in Enhanced Tumor Growth and Metastasis In Vivo.
Journal of Clinical Oncology, 2004 June; 22(11): 2092-2100.
3M PHARMACEUTICALS, HOUSTON, TX
2004 – 2005
Immunology Medical Science Liaison: Lectured on the mechanism of action of Immune Response
Modifiers used for the treatment of precancerous lesions of the skin at diverse venues from Lunch and Learn,
advisory board meetings, speaker trainings, and sales force training. Developed training modules and
provide custom-made Lunch and Learn presentations to Dermatology Residency Programs on subjects of
their interest to strengthen the relationship and credibility of the Company. Participated in symposia to
maintain clinical and scientific expertise in Oncology, Immunology, and Dermatology. Established peer-topeer relationships with Dermatology key opinion leaders within the US South-East region (10 states, from
New Mexito to Florida). Provided information on competitive market trends and conveyed all customer
feedback to the corporate office.
BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE, HOUSTON, TX
2003
Postdoctoral Research Associate: Designed transgenic animal models to study prostate cancer.
Collaborated with other Oncology scientists at Baylor College of Medicine in the design of research
methodologies and interpretation of research findings. Successful submissions of DOD and CaP Cure
grants.
MD ANDERSON CANCER CENTER, HOUSTON, TX
1997-2003
Graduate Research Assistant: PhD dissertation project on the Role of a Transcription Factor Activator
Protein-2 in the initial stages of prostate cancer progression. Collaborated with other scientists and clinicians
at MD Anderson Cancer Center on various research projects. Presented research findings at National and
International scientific meetings. Planned the first CB program student-faculty retreat; including preparation
of a proposal and negotiation of funding sources.
.
ADVENT MORRO EQUITY PARTNERS, SAN JUAN, PR
2007 - 2010
Principal: Advent Morro is the largest private equity firm in Puerto Rico, owner of Medical Card Systems (MCS), the second
largest private insurance plan in Puerto Rico. Responsible for the Biotech and Healthcare portfolio. Responsible to maintain
relationships with key opinion leaders in Puerto Rico, as well as government and private industry stakeholders from the
healthcare industry to engage them in the identification and evaluation of business opportunities and threats in the healthcare
industry. Participated in medical symposia such as ASCO, ASTRO, Bio International, among others to identify current trends in
the industry. Evaluated investments opportunities for their technical risk of a new product or technology, market adoption,
regulatory and reimbursement changes and management execution risks, among others. Monitor trends in an industry by
reading SEC filings, press releases and scientific literature related to portfolio companies or competitors, developed financial
models, operational performance metrics, and budgets for portfolio companies. Participated in the Board of Directors of
companies providing Healthcare Services, and oversaw the execution of the goals by management as defined at the Board
meetings.
ABBOTT LABORATORIES, SAN JUAN, PR
2006 - 2007
Oncology and Virology Medical Science Liaison: Assisted Business Unit Managers to develop marketing plans for Abbott’s
products. Assess the individual training needs of the sales force, managed care, and marketing personnel and provide ways to
help them understand the scientific and clinical information critical to defending their market, designing impactful messaging,
and appropriately presenting the clinical benefits and cost effectiveness to payers. Cultivated relations with key opinion leaders
and developed advocates for company’s products. Responded Medical Information Requests and helped to develop
pharmacovigilance reports. Maintained a high level of expertise in Oncology and Virology by attending seminar and symposia.
ABBOTT LABORATORIES, HOUSTON, TX
2005 - 2006
Oncology Medical Science Liaison: Designed a strategic plan for South-Central region that includes pre-and post-launch
initiatives for Xinlay, a Phase III drug for prostate cancer. Identified and developed relationships with key opinion leaders in the
US South-Central region (3 states). Disseminated results from pivotal clinical trials with Xinlay. Served as angiogenesis
pipeline lead among the Medical Liaison Team. Identified and coordinated initiatives to support clinical development of Abbott’s
Oncology pipeline. Attended NCI-funded Cooperative Group Meetings to identify opportunities for Abbott’s Oncology
compounds. Attended scientific and clinical meetings to maintain scientific expertise in Oncology research. Shared competitive
intelligence with the Oncology clinical team. Mediated proposal submissions for preclinical collaborations and monitored
research progress.
Maribelis Ruiz, PhD
1500 Ave. Los Romeros Apt #304
San Juan, PR 00926
Phone: 787-505-2130
maribelisr@yahoo.com
Objectives
Leverage knowledge in Biomedical Research combined with professional experience in the Pharmaceutical Industry and
Private Equity to accelerate adoption of new drugs or technologies, identify and pursue business opportunities on behalf of
the company.
Highlights of qualifications
Executive with 6 years of experience in Biomedical Research, Pharmaceutical Industry, and Private Equity. Strategic
thinker with excellent interpersonal and communication skills that make her particularly effective in leading complex
projects. Fluency in written and verbal Spanish and English facilitates working relations among people with diverse
backgrounds. Effective in constantly changing environments. Strong proficiency in Excel, Word, and Power Point.
Awards and Honors
Department of Defense Postdoctoral Fellowship (2003); Prostate Cancer Foundation (CaP Cure) Award (Co-principal
investigator, 2003); Ruth L. Kirshstein National Research Service Award (2003); Sylvan Rodriguez/ Cancer Answers Award
(2002); AACR Minority Scholar Award (2000, 2001, and 2002); Minority Faculty Association Scholarship (2000); Predoctoral
Training Program in Cancer Immunobiology (1998-2000)
Professional Experience
BRISTOL MYERS SQUIBB, SAN JUAN, PR
2010 - present
Medical Science Liaison: Responsible for part of the Oncology portfolio including marketed products such as Ixempra
(breast cancer), Sprycel (chronic myeloid leukemia), and Yervoy (malignant melanoma) as well as the pipeline in breast,
hematologic malignancies, melanoma, and prostate cancer. Main responsibilities include establishing peer to peer relations
with key opinion leaders in Puerto Rico, speaker training, sales and marketing personnel training. Participate in scientific
symposia such as ASCO, ASH, and other CME events to maintain expertise in Oncology and gain important insight
regarding BMS Oncology products and current treatment landscape. Support Access Group by providing scientific
presentations to key decision makers within managed care organization.
MY RESUME IN 2003
MARIBELIS RUIZ
2120 El Paseo #1206
Houston, TX 77054
(713) 798-4544 (work, 9:00am-6:00pm)
(832) 978-5834 (cellular)
maribelisr@yahoo.com
HIGHLIGHTS OF QUALIFICATIONS
•Research skills in cancer pathology, gene expression, and molecular biology and relating basic
science research to clinical application
•Speaking and teaching skills in both small and large groups with ease
•Clinical interpretation skills
•Leadership skills for scientifically-related purpose
•Cost analysis skills
•Adaptive skills to frequent change
•Motivational skills to accomplish group goals
•Mediation skills
•Problem-solving skills
•Cultural accommodation skills
•Communication skills with fluency in written and verbal Spanish and English
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
MOLECULAR BIOLOGY Research involved analysis of gene expression through reverse
transcriptase PCR, Western and Northern blot analysis, and zymography. Performed gene
cloning, site-directed mutagenesis, electrophoretic mobility shift assay, luciferase assay,
chromatin immunoprecipitation, and Southern blot analysis. Assayed DNA content and cell
surface protein expression by FACS analysis.
MODEL SYSTEMS Design of tissue-specific transgenic animal models employing targetedrecombination, internal ribosomal entry sites, and reporter genes to control and monitor tissuespecific expression. Genetic manipulation of cell lines in culture. Tissue transplantation of
human and mouse cells into mice.
CELL CULTURE Maintained cancer cells, immortalized and normal cells grown in
culture. Performed transient and stable transfection of cells in culture, and migration assays.
MICROSCOPY Evaluation of immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent staining; digital
image capture and manipulation.
EDUCATION
2003
2003
1997
Postdoctoral Research
Baylor College of Medicine
Doctorate in Biomedical Sciences- Cancer Biology
University of Texas Houston- MD Anderson Cancer Center
Bachelor of Science in Industrial Microbiology University of Puerto Rico - Mayaguez Campus
RESEARCH EXPERIENCE
2003
Baylor College of Medicine Postdoctoral Research
“Prostate cancer models of genomic instability”
“Identification of novel androgen receptor targets using chromatin immunoprecipitation”
1997-2002 University of Texas Houston – Health Science Center
Ph.D. Dissertation Project “Role of AP-2 transcription factor in prostate cancer progression”
1996-1997 University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez Campus
Undergraduate Research “Screening, cloning and characterization of a mouse immunoglobulin
gene library for binding activity against dinoflagellate toxin”
1996
University of California San Francisco- San Francisco, CA
UCSF Summer Research Training Program “Correction of the DF508 mutation of the cystic fibrosis
gene by small fragment homologous replacement”
PUBLICATIONS
Maribelis Ruiz, Patricia Troncoso, Christiana Bruns, and Menashe Bar-Eli. AP-2a Transcription Factor Expression is
Associated with Normal Luminal Differentiation and Lost in Prostate Cancer. Clinical Cancer Research 2001 December;
7(12):4086-95.
Okot Nyormoi, Zhi Wang, Dao Doan, Maribelis Ruiz, David McConkey, Menashe Bar-Eli. Transcription Factor AP-2 is Cleaved
and Inactivated Preferentially by Caspase-6 during TNF-a Induced Apoptosis in Breast Cancer Cells. Molecular and Cellular
Biology 2001; 21: 4856-4867.
Chang Hun Rhee, Kenneth Hess, James Jabbur, Maribelis Ruiz, Yu Yang, Stephen Chen, Alex Chenchik, Gregory N. Fuller,
and Wei Zhang. cDNA Expression Array Reveals Heterogeneous Gene Expression Profiles in Three Glioblastoma Cell Lines.
Oncogene 1999; 18: 2711-2717.
Maribelis Ruiz, Curtis Pettaway, Renduo Song, Oliver Stoeltzing, Lee Ellis, and Menashe Bar-Eli. Activator protein-2a inhibits
tumorigenicity and represses VEGF transcription in prostate cancer
cells. JNCI, submitted.
Dina Lev Chelouche*, Maribelis Ruiz*, Lisa Mills, Eric McGary, Janet E. Price, and Manashe Bar-Eli. Dacarbazine (DTIC)
Causes Transcriptional Upregulation of Interlukin-8 (IL-8) and Vascular
Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) in Melanoma Cells. A Possible Escape of Mechanism from Chemotherapy. Molecular
Cancer Therapeutics, 2003, 2.
Dina Chelouche Lev, Lee Su Kim, Vladislava Melnikova, Maribelis Ruiz, Honnavara N. Ananthaswamy, and Janet Price. Dual
Blockade of EGFR and ERK1/2 phosphorylation potentiates growth inhibition of breast cancer cells. Clinical Cancer
Research, submitted.
Eric C. McGary, Amy B. Heimberger, Maribelis Ruiz, Huamin Wang, Gregory N. Fuller, Lisa Mills, Dima Suki, Gary Thomas,
Mikhail Shtivelband, and Menashe Bar-Eli. Loss of the AP-2a Transcription Factor is Associated with the Grade of Human
Gliomas. Journal of Clinical Oncology, submitted.
Carmen Tellez, Marya McCarty, Maribelis Ruiz and Menashe Bar-Eli. Loss of AP-2 results in overexpression of the thrombin
receptor (PAR-1) and correlates with the malignant phenotype of human melanoma. PNAS, submitted.
* First and second author contributed equally
ABSTRACTS
Maribelis Ruiz, Curtis Pettaway, Renduo Song, Oliver Stoeltzing, Lee M. Ellis, and Menashe Bar-Eli. AP-2 Transcription
Factor Inhibits Tumor Growth of Prostate Cancer Cells by Downregulating VEGF Expression. Oral presentation Molecular
Targets for Cancer Therapy Biannual Meeting, 2002.
Maribelis Ruiz, Curtis A. Pettaway, Renduo Song, Patricia Troncoso, and Menashe Bar-Eli. AP-2 Transcription Factor is a
Tumor Suppressor Gene in Prostate Cancer. Minisymposium- 2002 American Association for Cancer Research 93rd
Annual Meeting, and 2002 Trainee Recognition Day.
Maribelis Ruiz, Curtis A. Pettaway, Patricia Troncoso, and Menashe Bar-Eli. AP-2a Transcription Factor Expression is
Associated with Normal Luminal Differentiation and Lost in Prostate Cancer. Poster presentation 2001 American
Association for Cancer Research 92st Annual Meeting, and 2001 MD Anderson Trainee Recognition Day.
Maribelis Ruiz, Curtis A. Pettaway, Patricia Troncoso, and Menashe Bar-Eli. Regulation of Tumor Growth and Metastasis
of Prostate Cancer by AP-2 Transcription Factor. Poster discussion 2000 American Association for Cancer Research 91st
Annual Meeting, and Pathobiology of Cancer Workshop.
Eric C. McGary, Amy Heimberger, Maribelis Ruiz, Gregory Fuller, Lisa Mills, and Menashe Bar-Eli. Loss of the AP-2a
transcription factor is associated with progression of human gliomas. 2003 American Association for Cancer Research
94st Annual Meeting.
Dina Chelouche Lev, Maribelis Ruiz, Lisa Mills, Eric McGary, Janet E. Price, Menashe Bar-Eli Dacarbazine (DTIC) induces
transciptional upregulation of IL-8 and VEGF in melanoma cells. A possible mechanism for resistance to chemotherapy.
2003 American Association for Cancer Research 94st Annual Meeting.
Carlos E. Bermejo, Colin PN Dinney, Ashish Kamat, Daniel Kedar, Maribelis Ruiz, David McConkey, Menashe Bar-Eli
Downstream Signaling Pathways and Antiangiogenic Effects of the Pan-ErbB Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor CI1033 in a Human
Bladder Cancer Cell Line. 2002 American Urology Association Meeting and 2003 American Association for Cancer
Research 94st Annual Meeting.
Gregory N. Fuller, Armineh Babaian, Sanbao Ruan, Maribelis Ruiz, Chang Hun Rhee, Ian E. McCutcheon, Wei Zhang.
Elevated expression of p21/WAF1/Cip1 in hormonally-active pituitary adenomas. 1998 Spring Meeting American Society of
Clinical Pathologists.
Anyone in the audience
currently attempting the same
transition?
SUCCESSFUL TRANSITIONS:
LESSONS LEARNED FROM MY
EXPERIENCE
UNDERSTAND WHY YOU WANT TO
MAKE A TRANSITION
MY REASONS

The most fun parts for ME about being a scientist:
30%
Research literature
 Define a hypothesis and plan the research
 Analyze results (potential biases, implications, next steps)
 Communicate research findings to my peers
 Teaching


The least favorite parts for ME about being a
scientist:



70%
Troubleshooting (patience is not one of my virtues)
Microscopic vision of a subject
Repeating experiments over and over
CAUTION: BEFORE CONSIDERING A
TRANSITION

Describe with details the BEST DAY AT WORK
and WORST DAY AT WORK

Analyze YOURSELF (biases, skills, interests)

Understand YOUR reasons for wanting a transition

Project yourself in 10 years

Consider personal life
Do not skip this process, spend MONTHS
analyzing these points … talk to people
HOW TO GET YOUR FEET IN THE
DOOR?
MY TARGET JOB
Medical Science Liaisons - Dallas, TX
About the Job
Our firm has been retained by several leading Biotechnology and
Pharmaceutical Companies that have an immediate need for Medical
Science Liaisons (MSL). As our clients expand globally, we are
searching for talented, motivated, dedicated people who are passionate
about what they do. We are recruiting nationally for (MSL's) with a
successful track record. We have openings in various therapeutic
areas including but not limited to Cardiology, CNS, Respiratory,
Oncology, Dermatology, and Nephrology. Candidates will also have a
thorough understanding of the current regulatory landscape.
Source: Monster.com
Search April 30, 2011
MY TARGET JOB
Responsibilities
•Build professional relationships with local/ regional/ national opinion leaders in
therapeutic areas of commercial and research interest.
•Function as a key clinical/ scientific resource to KOLs
•Maintain thorough and up-to-date knowledge of disease state, clinical
information, and product data within assigned therapeutic area.
•Identify opportunities to partner with KOLs on disease state or therapeutic
initiatives.
•Develop strategies and tactics to effectively communicate complex scientific
education.
•Effectively communicate disease state and product knowledge, either formally or
informally.
•Present clinical/ scientific presentations to KOLs
•Physician speaker training, by individual or by group
•Managed Care formulary advisory board clinical presentations
•Presentations to allied healthcare provider groups (pharmacists, NP, PA, etc.)
•Respond to physician consultations initiated by Sales
•Provide scientific education to Sales & Marketing Personnel
•Collaboration with internal colleagues
•Collection, analysis, and interpretation of disease state and technical product
information at medical congresses
MY TARGET JOB
Requirements
•Doctorate level scientific degree is required (PharmD, PhD, MD or equivalent)
•Must be able to work independently and take initiative in setting goals, priorities,
and work plans
•3 to 5 years of clinical work experience in medical affairs/research
•Two to three years experience in the biotechnology and or pharmaceutical industry
as an MSL
•Strong interpersonal skills with demonstrated effectiveness to work cross divisional
as well as independently
•Knowledge of the clinical trial design and protocol development
•Knowledge of analysis of clinical data and pharmacology
•Knowledge of principles of pharmacoeconomics
•Evidence of scholarly activity through publications
•Excellent organizational skills
•Ability to develop and execute plans against objectives in an independent
environment
•Excellent written, oral and presentation skills
Source: Monster.com
Search April 30, 2011
SUCCESSFULLY APPLYING TO YOUR DREAM
JOB: LESSONS LEARNED

Make a resume SPECIFIC for the job position
MY RESUME IN 2003
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
MOLECULAR BIOLOGY Research involved analysis of gene expression through reverse
transcriptase PCR, Western and Northern blot analysis, and zymography. Performed gene
cloning, site-directed mutagenesis, electrophoretic mobility shift assay, luciferase assay,
chromatin immunoprecipitation, and Southern blot analysis. Assayed DNA content and cell
surface protein expression by FACS analysis.
MODEL SYSTEMS Design of tissue-specific transgenic animal models employing targetedrecombination, internal ribosomal entry sites, and reporter genes to control and monitor tissuespecific expression. Genetic manipulation of cell lines in culture. Tissue transplantation of
human and mouse cells into mice.
CELL CULTURE Maintained cancer cells, immortalized and normal cells grown in
culture. Performed transient and stable transfection of cells in culture, and migration assays.
MICROSCOPY Evaluation of immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent staining; digital
image capture and manipulation.
MY RESUME IN 2003
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
MOLECULAR BIOLOGY Research involved analysis of gene expression through reverse
transcriptase PCR, Western and Northern blot analysis, and zymography. Performed gene
cloning, site-directed mutagenesis, electrophoretic mobility shift assay, luciferase assay,
chromatin immunoprecipitation, and Southern blot analysis. Assayed DNA content and cell
surface protein expression by FACS analysis.
MODEL SYSTEMS Design of tissue-specific transgenic animal models employing targetedrecombination, internal ribosomal entry sites, and reporter genes to control and monitor tissuespecific expression. Genetic manipulation of cell lines in culture. Tissue transplantation of
human and mouse cells into mice.
CELL CULTURE Maintained cancer cells, immortalized and normal cells grown in
culture. Performed transient and stable transfection of cells in culture, and migration assays.
MICROSCOPY Evaluation of immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent staining; digital
image capture and manipulation.
MY RESUME IN 2003 REVISED
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
2003
Baylor College of Medicine
* Communication
* Research
1997-2003
* Leadership
* Communication
* Research
Literature review and interpretation. Analysis of scientific data. Successful grant
applications, poster presentation.
Design of tissue-specific transgenic animal models. Gene cloning and mutagenesis.
Identification of transcription factor targets through chromatin immunoprecipitation.
University of Texas Houston - Health Science Center
* Teaching
Postdoctoral Research Associate
Graduate Research Assistant
Oral scientific presentations to small and large audiences of different educational
backgrounds.
Lecturer at "Molecular Basis of Oncogenes" Graduate Course.
Mediation of student and faculty interests as student representative at Cancer Biology
(CB) Executive Committee. Planning of first CB program student-faculty
retreat. Proposal preparation and negotiation of funding sources.
Literature review and interpretation. Preparation of research manuscripts, poster
presentations, progress reports. Assisted in grant writing.
Analysis of gene expression, analysis of protein function. Assayed DNA content, cell
viability, and cell surface protein expression. Maintainance and manipulation of
cancer and normal cells grown in culture. Evaluation of immunostaining through digital
image capture and manipulation.
SUCCESSFULLY APPLYING TO YOUR DREAM
JOB

Make a resume SPECIFIC for the job position

Research the company that you are applying to


Press releases

Financial statements

Stock prices

Products and pipeline
Anticipate what the company is seeking and
verbalize why you are good for the job
Maribelis Ruiz, PhD
1500 Ave. Los Romeros Apt #304
San Juan, PR 00926
Phone: 787-505-2130
maribelisr@yahoo.com
Objective
Leverage knowledge in Biomedical Research combined with professional experience in the
Pharmaceutical Industry and Private Equity to accelerate adoption of new drugs or technologies,
identify and pursue business opportunities on behalf of the company.
Modify Objective
statement for each
company
Highlights of qualifications
Executive with 6 years of experience in Biomedical Research, Pharmaceutical Industry, and Private Equity. Strategic
thinker with excellent interpersonal and communication skills that make her particularly effective in leading complex
projects. Fluency in written and verbal Spanish and English facilitates working relations among people with diverse
backgrounds. Effective in constantly changing environments. Strong proficiency in Excel, Word, and Power Point.
Awards and Honors
Department of Defense Postdoctoral Fellowship (2003); Prostate Cancer Foundation (CaP Cure) Award (Co-principal
investigator, 2003); Ruth L. Kirshstein National Research Service Award (2003); Sylvan Rodriguez/ Cancer Answers Award
(2002); AACR Minority Scholar Award (2000, 2001, and 2002); Minority Faculty Association Scholarship (2000); Predoctoral
Training Program in Cancer Immunobiology (1998-2000)
Professional Experience
BRISTOL MYERS SQUIBB, SAN JUAN, PR
2010 - present
Scientific Advisor: Responsible for part of the Oncology portfolio including marketed products such as Ixempra (breast
cancer), Sprycel (chronic myeloid leukemia), and Yervoy (malignant melanoma) as well as the pipeline in breast,
hematologic malignancies, melanoma, and prostate cancer. Main responsibilities include establishing peer to peer relations
with key opinion leaders in Puerto Rico, speaker training, sales and marketing personnel training. Participate in scientific
symposia such as ASCO, ASH, and other CME events to maintain expertise in Oncology and gain important insight
regarding BMS Oncology products and current treatment landscape. Support Access Group by providing scientific
presentations to key decision makers within managed care organization.
SUCCESSFULLY APPLYING TO YOUR DREAM
JOB

Make a resume SPECIFIC for the job position

Research the company that you are applying to



Press releases

Financial statements

Stock prices

Products and pipeline
Anticipate what the company is seeking and
verbalize why you are good for the job
Fill in gaps between your experience and the
requirements
Requirements
•Doctorate level scientific degree is required (PharmD, PhD, MD or
equivalent)
•Must be able to work independently and take initiative in setting goals,
priorities, and work plans
•3 to 5 years of clinical work experience in medical affairs/research
•Two to three years experience in the biotechnology and or pharmaceutical
industry as an MSL
•Strong interpersonal skills with demonstrated effectiveness to work cross
divisional as well as independently
•Knowledge of the clinical trial design and protocol development
•Knowledge of analysis of clinical data and pharmacology
•Knowledge of principles of pharmacoeconomics
•Evidence of scholarly activity through publications
•Excellent organizational skills
•Ability to develop and execute plans against objectives in an independent
environment
•Excellent written, oral and presentation skills
Source: Monster.com
Search April 30, 2011
FREQUENT GAPS FOR PHD’S
TRANSITIONING TO BUSINESS

Medical Science Liaison








PhRMA Code
Clinical trials
Legal framework of Pharmaceutical companies
Clinical practice (academic vs. community)
Managed care
Competitive landscape
FDA rules
Venture Capital






Finance and accounting
Business legal structures
Deal making and transactions
Market trends in Biotech/Pharma
Valuation
Human resources
Program
Price:
$1,575.00
Great Networking
Opportunity
MANAGING YOUR CAREER
COMPROMISES IN CAREER MOVES
100%
90%
80%
Teaching
70%
Scientific
60%
Legal
50%
Operations
Financial
40%
Mature Brands
30%
New Brands
20%
Clinical Trials
10%
Drug Dev
0%
MSL 1
MSL 2
MSL 3
Private
Equity
MSL 4
COMPROMISES IN CAREER MOVES
Travel
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
Travel
30%
20%
10%
0%
MSL 1
MSL 2
MSL 3
Private
Equity
MSL 4
FINAL WORDS OF TRANSITIONING INTO
BUSINESS

Spend time researching yourself

Spend time researching your desired jobs and
companies… this is a long term commitment

Network as much as possible

Fill in gaps in your resume


Take risks early in your career
Embrace opportunities to develop new skills
QUESTIONS?