Putting Cure in Curiosity: A Scientist’s Success Story
Alolika Chakrabortti
Senior Manager, DP-MSAT
Based out of Johor, Malaysia
From a young age, Alolika Chakrabortti’s curiosity was sparked by the groundbreaking scientific milestones of the 90s and early 2000s. Her journey from academia to the biopharmaceutical industry has been marked by a relentless pursuit of passion and excellence. She continues to inspire aspiring scientists, especially women, and highlights the crucial role of diversity and innovation in advancing the biopharmaceutical industry. This is Alolika’s story.
“I grew up in the 90s, and I was a child with boundless curiosity, always eager to explore the world around me. My interests were diverse, and I found inspiration in the groundbreaking scientific achievements of the time. The creation of Dolly the sheep, the approval of the first transgenic crop, the launch of the International Space Station, and the Human Genome Project — all these milestones ignited my passion for science and set me on a path towards a career in STEM.”
As I transitioned from a curious child to a university student in the early 2000s, my passion for science deepened, and my journey into the world of discovery science spurred my fascination with biopharmaceuticals. This laid the groundwork for my future endeavours — being a part of the bench to bedside story of a therapeutic molecule.
A journey of transition, driven by a purpose
After completing my PhD from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, on genomics-guided drug discovery from microbes, I transitioned into the biopharma industry. Here, I honed my skills in process validation and technology transfer for biologics, eventually leading the MSAT function at Biocon in Malaysia. This role has allowed me to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives, a goal that has been driving force.
“Pursuing a career in STEM is arduous and time-consuming, devoid of shortcuts and quick fixes. Whether in academia or industry, a career in STEM can be mentally draining, testing your resilience every single day. At times, you may even grapple with imposter syndrome. The most rewarding aspect, however, is the thrill of solving a puzzle piece by piece and watching the full picture come together, knowing that you played a part in completing it.”
The transition from academic research to an industry position was both exciting and challenging. My experience in academia provided a strong foundation in scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and problem solving, which proved invaluable in the biopharmaceutical industry. However, the shift required me to adapt to a faster-paced environment with a focus on practical applications and outcomes.
I had to quickly learn the intricacies of regulatory frameworks, process optimization, and the importance of cross-functional collaboration and strategic planning.
“The role has also allowed me to thrive in a field that has long been the domain of men. At Biocon Biologics, the commitment to fostering an inclusive environment is evident. The company actively creates opportunities for women scientists through mentorship programs, training initiatives, and a strong emphasis on diversity in hiring practices.”
Growth nurtured by a strong foundation
As I moved into my current role as Function Lead/Senior Manager at Biocon Biologics, I found that my background in drug discovery, synthetic biology and microbiology equipped me well to lead technology transfer initiatives and handle the complexities of scaling up biologics production and ensuring its efficiency.
My foundation in STEM enables me to visualize the processes and potential bottlenecks, which equips me to embrace the challenges of overseeing complex projects, driving improvements, while working closely with diverse teams.
“Biocon offers a variety of training programs and workshops that focus on both technical skills and soft skills, ensuring a well-rounded development approach. Mentorship opportunities are another key aspect of my professional growth here. Working alongside experienced colleagues allows me to gain insights into best practices, industry trends, and leadership strategies. This mentorship fosters a collaborative environment where knowledge is shared, and new ideas can flourish.”
Celebrating the spirit of collaboration
Working alongside talented colleagues dedicated to excellence and enhancing healthcare fosters a strong sense of community. This collaborative spirit promotes innovation and motivation. Celebrating shared successes and learning from one another is a key motivator for coming to work each day.
“I took charge of the newly formed MSAT-DP team at the Malaysia site about three years ago. One particularly memorable moment that stands out in my mind, was when a senior leader in the organization expressed appreciation for our team's dedication to quality work and my ability to nurture local talent while engaging seamlessly with the community.”
“I took charge of the newly formed MSAT-DP team at the Malaysia site about three years ago. One particularly memorable moment that stands out in my mind, was when a senior leader in the organization expressed appreciation for our team's dedication to quality work and my ability to nurture local talent while engaging seamlessly with the community.”
A dynamic environment with diverse perspectives
The work culture at Biocon Biologics Malaysia is collaborative, inclusive, and innovation-driven. Employees are encouraged to share their ideas and insights, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued. This culture not only enhances teamwork but also promotes creativity and problem-solving across all levels of the organization. I truly value the dynamic environment at Biocon Biologics where innovation meets practical application. Being able to see the tangible impact of my work on patient outcomes and global healthcare makes every day rewarding.“Our diverse talent pool, comprising employees from various nationalities, brings a wide range of experiences, backgrounds, and approaches to work. This diversity enables us to provide both patients and clients with the most innovative and effective solutions.”
Learning, reflecting and exploring
To keep myself motivated to work harder, I make sure I maintain a healthy work-life balance. I love traveling and exploring new cultures, particularly through their history and cuisine. Travelling to historical sites allows me to connect the dots between the past and present and deepens my appreciation for the rich tapestry of human history and culture!
I enjoy reading as well, and I’m a fan of podcasts, particularly those focused on geopolitics, history and innovation. Also, journaling on topics I feel passionately about, helps me process what I learn and reflect on my experiences.
And do you know how I connect with people? I try and make them laugh! I truly believe humour is the best tool to break the ice and create a welcoming atmosphere, making it easier to build relationships and foster collaboration!
“As I reflect on my journey from a curious child influenced by scientific milestones to a leader in biopharmaceuticals, I encourage others to embrace their passion and curiosity! The journey in science can be challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Believe in your abilities and don’t hesitate to pursue your interests, even if they lead you down unconventional paths. Keep an open mind, stay adaptive and never underestimate the impact you can make. Your unique perspective is invaluable to the scientific community and to the world at large.”
ALOLIKA’S SUCCESS MANTRA |
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