GBR Spotlight – Cynthia
Today we speak with Cynthia Yen, who is a member of our Community team. Read here why she is the person to ask for advice when you have a move planned any time soon! Just don’t reward her with pineapple…
Hi Cynthia, thank you very much for taking the time to speak with us today. Could you please describe Yourself in a few sentences?
I’m Cynthia Yen from Taiwan, currently a 1st year master’s student in Biotechnology with an entrepreneurship concentration in Johns Hopkins University (USA). Before that, I did have four years of working experience in both process engineering and business development within the biotech and pharma industry. I would describe myself as a small potato, but hopefully one day become a detailed-oriented strategist who is passionate about bridging science and business together to drive innovation in drug development.
Why did you choose to study Biotech?
Great question! Chemistry and biochemistry form the foundation of understanding how our bodies function at a molecular level. I find it incredibly useful to first grasp the concepts of chemistry and biochemistry before delving into other biology- or pharmacology-related fields. If I hadn’t studied chemistry and biochemistry back then, I probably would have chosen to study medical-related majors, such as pre-med, pharmacology, or similar fields. Perhaps, I might have even become a medical doctor in the future.
Since you lived in Taiwan and now the US, where do you see the difference in the counties you lived in terms of the Bioeconomy?
I have lived in various places, including Taiwan, the UK, China, and the US, since I was 13 years old, on my own.
As for bioeconomy, each country has its unique approach and focus. Taiwan focuses more on the semiconductor industry, so I’m not entirely sure about its development in bioeconomy. The UK has a strong emphasis on sustainable agriculture, biotech, and bioenergy, with a particular aim to reduce carbon emissions. China has made significant investments in biotechnology, bioenergy, and sustainable agriculture, with the government encouraging the use of renewable biological resources and the development of bio-based industries. Lastly, the US has a diverse and robust bioeconomy, with strong support for research and innovation in biotechnology, bioenergy, and sustainable agriculture. I’m uncertain about the future strategy of the new administration regarding the bioeconomy though.
Where do you see yourself in the near and more distant future?
I am passionate about the intersection between science (especially oncology) and business to drive the delivery of innovative therapeutics to the patients with unmet clinical needs. Hopefully, I can continuously be part of the corporate development or business development at the biotech or pharma company to drive strategic decision-making in alliance and portfolio management.
Sounds very exciting! Let’s move on to talking about what brings you here: What is your role within GBR and how did you get involved with us?
I’m currently one of the community directors at GBR. I participated in the Voice of Tomorrow case competition in entrepreneurship track last year and really enjoyed the GBR community. It is a great platform to network and make friends who are also passionate about the biotech and pharma industry across the globe.
Can you describe a project you really loved working on?
I will say the project my team worked on in the Voice of Tomorrow case competition. The process was very interesting and meaningful as everyone contributed to his or her expertise to try to come up with a company deck to pitch. I learned great things from all of them and do believe that they will shine in their own fields!
Where do you see the benefit of GBR?
People are mission-driven, and the board are very active in holding events annually. GBR is a global platform for students and early professionals to expand their knowledge and skillsets outside of their classroom. It is also a great start to begin networking if seeking mentorship and/or opportunities in the biotech/pharma/academia fields.
I completely agree! Let’s move on to some fun questions: What are your hobbies outside of work and GBR?
I will say hiking and food hunting with my friends! Besides that, if I am at home, I will spend hours watching k-drama and American series shows!
Tell me a fun fact about you.
I have been moving to different countries every four years since I was 13 years old, all by myself. I am good at packing and moving!
Wow that is super impressive! Especially starting this at thirteen! What is the last book you read, and would you recommend it?
It is “The Entrepreneur’s Guide to a Biotech Startup” by Dr. Peter Kolchinsky
The book is recommended to people who are new to the industry and have an interest in founding a start-up in the future!
What is your favorite and what is your least favorite food?
Hard to pick one favorite food, but I will say brown sugar boba milk tea since I am from Taiwan. I have a list of my least favorite foods, but, this time, I will choose pineapple. I cannot stand the smell and the taste of it.
How many and which languages do you speak?
I can speak both Mandarin and English.
And lastly which three items would you take with you on a lonely island?
I would take a water bottle with a filter, a lighter and a sleeping bag.
Very sensible packing indeed, you are clearly an expert! Thank you very much for the interview, Cynthia!