Cytel’s Functional Service Provider (FSP) teams work on exciting projects with biotech and pharmaceutical companies as statistical programmers and biostatisticians. We spoke with Anwaya Joshi, Programming Senior Team Lead, who is based in India and working with a multinational pharmaceutical company, about the projects she found most fascinating and what it’s like to work as a statistical programmer with Cytel’s FSP. Read more »
FSP Behind the Scenes with Brooke Smith, Senior Biostatistician
Cytel’s Functional Service Provider (FSP) teams work on exciting projects with biotech and pharmaceutical companies as statistical programmers and biostatisticians. We spoke with Brooke Smith, Senior Biostatistician, who’s based in the US and working with a global pharmaceutical company, about the meaningful and impactful projects she’s working on and what it’s like to work as a biostatistician with Cytel’s FSP. Read more »
Career Perspectives: Reflecting at 10 Years in Cytel FSP
Founded in 1987 by Cyrus Mehta and Nitin Patel, research scientists at Harvard University and MIT respectively and collaborators at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Cytel is home to some of the most passionate, creative, and high-performing talent in the industry.
Cytel’s Functional Service Provision (FSP) offers our clients access to teams that can act as extensions of a sponsor’s permanent staff. Several of our FSP employees have long-standing associations with the company, including many who began their professional journey at Cytel. In this blog, we throw a spotlight on some of our employees who have completed the incredible “10 years at Cytel” milestone.
Congratulations to all and thank you for helping us push boundaries, together!
Career Perspectives: A Conversation with Arnold van Aswegen
In this new installment of the Career Perspectives series, we had the privilege of interviewing Arnold van Aswegen, Associate Director of Functional Service Provision (FSP) at Cytel. Arnold, who is based in South Africa, has been an integral part of Cytel’s FSP business since March 2020. During the discussion, Arnold shares insights into his extensive professional journey, his current role at Cytel, his experiences within the immuno-oncology domain, and the key attributes necessary for joining the esteemed FSP team at the company. Read more »
Career Perspectives: A Conversation with Joshua Murray
In this latest edition of the Career Perspectives series, we are excited to introduce our readers to Joshua Murray, Principal Biostatistician in Functional Service Provision (FSP) at Cytel. He is based in Toronto, Canada, and joined Cytel in August 2022. With a diverse background spanning academia, government, healthcare, and industry, Josh brings a wealth of experience to the forefront. Join us as we delve into his perspectives on mentorship, collaboration, and the dynamic landscape of biostatistics.
Career Perspectives: A Conversation with KumKuen Yuen
Can you give us some background about your career and how you became associated with Cytel?
After completing a degree in electrical engineering, I spent 13 years working in the semiconductor industry before making a transition to the pharmaceutical industry to pursue a career in clinical data management. I worked in various pharmaceutical companies for 20 years until 2020, when Cytel presented itself as an opportunity, and I joined the company at the end of that year.
What is your role at Cytel and what do you like best about it?
I am a Principal Data Manager in Cytel. Currently, I am working as a lead data manager for a project. In this role, I work with clients and their vendors and collaborate with my colleagues from other functions. I am also involved in eCRF design and user acceptance testing. It is satisfying to deliver results that meet or exceed clients’ expectations in a timely manner.
It must be exciting to be an integral part of Cytel’s expansion to the APAC region. How do you think clinical development in Asia is different from the US and Europe? What does Cytel have to offer given these differences?
It is exciting to see Cytel grow and strengthen its presence in the APAC region. To raise our visibility, our commercial team for APAC is actively promoting our capabilities, highlighting our exceptional data management capabilities, and leveraging our better-known statistical solutions including software. New drug development in Asia is looking to bounce back fast post-COVID, and we look forward to supporting this with our global expertise.
Moreover, the staff at Cytel Singapore have a lot of working experience in global and regional studies and have worked well with partners in the region. This not only enables us to better understand the unique challenges faced by clients in this area, but also facilitates closer collaboration due to our shared time zone.
What combination of knowledge, skills, and technical competencies are required to work at Cytel Data Management?
Having programming skills and the ability to quickly learn and apply new software systems is essential, especially for those working in the clinical data management domain where clients require experience working with various software systems. It is important to have an eye for detail in picking up requirements from documentation and the sponsors’ needs, as well as a good understanding of clinical studies. Project management skills are necessary to work closely with clients and data vendors to ensure timely delivery. And I think effective communication skills are also a key requirement for success in this role.
What is a data manager’s role in ensuring clean, high-quality, and user-friendly data?
Firstly, the data manager needs to ensure that the eCRF design covers all aspects required by the client’s protocol. A well-designed data validation plan should also be put in place to check for any inconsistencies in the data. Additionally, the data manager must closely monitor query activities to ensure timely resolution of queries. Close collaboration with the client’s clinical operations and other functional teams is vital for the success of the study.
What in your opinion are the benefits of early collaboration with biostatisticians and statistical programmers? Can you share an example/project to showcase how this helps our clients?
Early collaboration with biostatisticians and statistical programmers is crucial to ensure that the study designed eCRF will capture all the necessary endpoint data. This ensures the study objective is fulfilled. In addition, it ensures the appropriate data are cleaned for analysis, facilitating timely completion of the study output.
In a recent project, close collaboration at the start of the study helped us meet client timelines. For instance, when the client changed the analysis methodology and required a new type of data transfer from its vendors, the study team (data manager, programmers, and biostatisticians) were able to perform the successful transfer of the new data and completion of analysis within a short period of time.
What inspires you most about working within this field?
My primary motivations in my field are the satisfaction of successfully completing projects and close collaboration with my colleagues and clients. And of course, being involved in the process of finding a treatment to cure or alleviate the pain of fellow human beings is a big driving force for me. Knowing that the work I do can potentially improve human health truly inspires me.
What are your main interests outside of work?
I enjoy reading and playing games with my children.
Thank you for taking the time to talk to us and sharing your journey.
At Cytel, we invite a diversity of perspectives and draw on a variety of talents to create a wealth of possibilities. Click here to learn about the opportunities at Cytel.
Career Perspectives: A Conversation with Malte Stein
In this edition of the Career Perspectives series, I interview Malte Stein, Senior Biostatistician. Malte owned the development of an application for Cytel’s Cytemation Initiative that focuses on the development of tools and processes that improve speed, efficiency, and quality. In this interview, Malte talks about his experience of working at Cytel, the focus on integrated project management, and the necessary qualifications to work here as a biostatistician.
Career Perspectives: A Conversation with Pratibha Jalui
For this edition of the Career Perspectives series, I had the opportunity to interview Pratibha Jalui, Director, Functional Service Provision (FSP) at Cytel. Pratibha, who is based in India and plays a crucial role in Cytel’s FSP business. In this conversation, Pratibha shares insights into her extensive professional background, the work culture at Cytel, and the qualities required to join the highly esteemed FSP group at the company.
Can you give us a background on your career and your professional journey so far?
My professional journey has been both fulfilling and transformative. With a background in programming and statistics, I have climbed the ranks to become a successful leader, driving Functional Service Provision (FSP) programming and statistical services for large engagements. Throughout my career, I have embraced diverse roles, tackled complex challenges, and honed my expertise in managing global teams. Along the way, I have been fortunate to work with excellent mentors, leaders, and individuals who have been instrumental in helping me overcome obstacles and seize opportunities for growth. This journey has not only shaped my skills but also instilled in me a deep passion for empowering others and driving innovation. I am proud of the milestones I have achieved so far, and I look forward to continuing my impactful journey within the dynamic field of FSP programming and statistical services.
What is your role at Cytel and what do you like best about it?
As the Director, FSP Services, I find my role invigorating and deeply meaningful. Leading a substantially large global team of programmers and statisticians, I am empowered to drive transformative change through data-driven insights. Witnessing the tangible impact of our work on Cytel and our clients fuels my passion for excellence and innovation. Guiding and empowering my team to reach their full potential is a constant source of inspiration, as we collectively shape the future, embrace challenges, and make a meaningful difference in the world.
Which departments or teams do you closely collaborate with? Can you describe a situation where collaboration with a particular department or team was crucial in overcoming a challenge or achieving a significant milestone?
Collaboration lies at the core of our organizational culture at Cytel, as we strive to work hand in hand with different departments and teams to accomplish our objectives. We have had many fruitful collaborations with human resources (HR) and finance, particularly. A notable example was when the HR team provided invaluable assistance post a large client engagement, which required resource reallocation. Through our partnership, we effectively addressed the challenges associated with realigning specific roles and responsibilities, resulting in heightened productivity, and fully leveraging employee potential. This joint effort entailed skillfully navigating the complexities of the process and formulating a comprehensive plan tailored precisely to meet our business needs.
Can you provide an overview of Cytel’s FSP business? In your view, what sets this group apart from other companies in terms of its approach, capabilities, and expertise?
Cytel’ s FSP business is truly exceptional. We take pride in our ability to manage a large, talented, global team of programmers and statisticians, dedicated to delivering top-notch services. What sets us apart is our unique approach, capabilities, and expertise. We prioritize a collaborative partnership with our clients, tailoring our solutions to their specific needs. Our deep domain knowledge, coupled with cutting-edge technologies, enables us to provide insightful data analysis, strategic recommendations, and innovative solutions. We strive for excellence, consistently exceeding expectations and adding value at every step. It is this unwavering commitment to quality, client-centricity, and unmatched expertise that differentiates our FSP business from others in the industry.
What combination of knowledge, skills, and technical competencies are required to excel within Cytel FSP?
I strongly believe that above all you’ve got to be intellectually curious about everything that you do. You’ve got to be flexible and willing to step out of your comfort zone. Try to look at things holistically. To truly excel within Cytel FSP, a potent blend of comprehensive industry knowledge, versatile skills, and cutting-edge technical competencies is paramount. This powerful combination enables one to deliver exceptional solutions, foster strong client relationships, and propel our organization to the forefront of the industry.
What growth opportunities are available for employees within FSP? Can you provide examples of career paths or progression that individuals have experienced?
Within FSP, we have always nurtured an environment that supports professional growth and advancement. Our employees have access to a myriad of opportunities to expand their skill sets and broaden their horizons. From specialized training programs and certifications to cross-functional collaborations and leadership development initiatives, we empower individuals to chart their own career paths. Many have witnessed a remarkable journey of professional growth, transitioning from humble entry-level roles to commanding senior positions, leading teams, and driving strategic initiatives. We celebrate these success stories as a testament to our commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning, enabling our employees to unlock their full potential and achieve remarkable career growth within Cytel.
As a leader, how do you prioritize work-life balance and employee well-being?
As a leader, I hold work-life balance and employee well-being as paramount. I prioritize this by fostering a culture that values personal time and mental wellness. Our team encourages open communication, flexible schedules, and provides resources for self-care. I strive to create an environment of trust where my team thrives both professionally and personally. By prioritizing their well-being, we nurture seamless collaboration that fuels productivity, creativity, and long-term success.
How does Cytel foster an inclusive and supportive environment for women leaders?
At Cytel, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for women leaders has always been a top priority. We actively promote gender diversity and ensure equal opportunities for growth and advancement. We provide mentorship support, networking forums, and tailored development initiatives specifically designed to empower women in leadership roles. By cultivating a culture of respect, amplifying diverse voices, and championing inclusivity, we create a nurturing space where women can thrive, excel, and shatter the glass ceiling.
What advice would you give to younger women just starting out in biostatics and programming?
To young women who aspire to enter the fields of biostatistics and programming, I would advise you to embrace your passion, unleash your potential, and defy any limitations society may impose on you. Believe in your capabilities, seek mentorship, and continuously expand your knowledge. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and never hesitate to voice your ideas.
Together, we can redefine the landscape, creating an inclusive and diverse environment where every voice is valued and celebrated.
Can you share any recent accomplishments or success stories?
Certainly! Some recent accomplishments that fill me with pride involve successfully leading my global team of programmers and statisticians to deliver groundbreaking solutions for my client. By leveraging our collective expertise and adopting innovative approaches, we developed a robust data analysis framework that revolutionized the client’s decision-making process. Our solution not only provided accurate and actionable insights but also significantly improved operational efficiency, saving valuable time and resources. These accomplishments garnered accolades from the client and strengthened our reputation as a trusted partner in delivering exceptional FSP programming and statistical services. It serves as a testament to our team’s dedication, expertise, and commitment to driving impactful results for our clients. As the saying goes, the proof of the pudding is in the eating and the recent announcement of our client engagement being extended for five years stands as undeniable evidence of this fact!!
What would you say is the most rewarding aspect of working in this field and at Cytel?
It’s been more than eighteen awesome years of working in this field and over eight amazing years at Cytel. The most rewarding aspect is witnessing the transformative impact we have on people’s lives. Whether it’s developing life-saving treatments, advancing scientific knowledge, or making a positive difference in our communities, the opportunity to contribute to meaningful work is truly fulfilling. Moreover, being part of an organization that fosters innovation, embraces diversity, and empowers its employees amplifies this sense of reward, making every day a source of inspiration and pride.
What activities or hobbies do you enjoy pursuing in your personal time?
Traveling fuels my creativity, writing reveals the depths of my soul, and painting becomes a conduit for boundless inspiration. Together, they form a vibrant tapestry, weaving a journey of self-discovery.
A career at Cytel FSP provides opportunities to be involved in unrivaled biostatistics and operations research projects to improve drug development success rates. To learn more about a career at Cytel, or to explore our openings, click here.
Career Perspectives: A Conversation with Veronica Chan
In this edition of the Career Perspectives series, I spoke with Veronica Chan, Principal Clinical Data Manager at Cytel. Veronica is based in Singapore and is a critical part of Cytel’s Data Management global group. In this interview, we learn about her professional journey, her insights on the data management function and its challenges, and the necessary qualifications to work at Cytel.
A Spotlight on FSP Programming
Since its founding in 1987, Cytel has been home to some of the most passionate, creative, and talented experts in the industry. Through our Functional Service Provision (FSP), we connect clients with teams that can act as extensions of a sponsor’s permanent staff, ensuring seamless management and delivery. For this edition of the Career Perspectives series, we’ve asked some of our longstanding FSP Programming experts to reflect on their decade-plus-long careers and experience at Cytel: