Fostering innovation among diverse young talent
Sixty science and business students from 24 countries and territories convened at the Novartis Campus in Basel, Switzerland, for the eight annual International Biotechnology Leadership Camp (BioCamp).
September 01, 2011
Future science and business leaders gathered at Novartis as some of the world’s most talented students met and exchanged ideas at the International Biotechnology Leadership Camp (BioCamp) from August 29–31, 2011, on the Novartis Campus in Basel, Switzerland.
The growing role of diversity in innovation
Launched in 2004, BioCamp underscores the global commitment of Novartis to foster research and innovation among young talent. This year, with 60 graduate students from leading universities in 24 countries and territories with varying cultural and educational backgrounds, BioCamp spotlights how diversity spurs innovation and inspires future leaders.
"Diversity and inclusion is a pivotal foundational stone of our core strategies. It is through diversity in people, cultures, thought and approach that leads to breakthrough medicines," said Joseph Jimenez, CEO of Novartis. "Our goal at Novartis, beyond creating next-generation medicines, is to educate and inspire the next generation of scientists - building the talent pool not only for Novartis, but leaders for the entire healthcare industry."
Insights and perspectives
At BioCamp, participating students were given unique insights and prospects in the healthcare and biotechnology sectors. At the three-day seminar, they met with scientists, biotechnology experts and management executives - including Ann Fudge, a member of the Novartis Board of Directors, and Novartis CEO Joseph Jimenez. Dr. Martin Horst, CEO and Board Member of MyoPowers Medical Technologies SA also offered a first-hand perspective on starting a medical technology company. In addition, the students visited some of the newest laboratory facilities at Novartis.
"BioCamp for me was a platform where I can meet fellow colleagues, scientists and people from the business background and also learn from one of the leading companies what is happening in the field and where we can see ourselves going ," said one BioCamp participant.
BioCamp has become a worldwide forum for research and business students keen on learning more about the healthcare industry, exchanging ideas and collaborating in a highly competitive environment. In some countries, the selection of students is even done together with local government agencies in science and education.
Diversity in action
Coming from 24 different countries and territories, the students demonstrated diversity in action by working together in groups to create a mock business plan and convince "venture capitalists" to invest in a new product. Using their diverse ideas and backgrounds, they presented their proposals before a panel of experts from research, business, finance and human resources. The winning team's participants came from Brazil, Canada, South Korea, India, Italy and Switzerland. In addition, three individual winners - from Brazil, South Africa and Switzerland - were selected based on their overall performance, leadership skills and contribution to the working groups.
