At Novartis, scientific progress is built on continuous learning and strong teamwork across disciplines. In an episode of The Novartis Experience, two colleagues from Technical Research and Development share how this mindset shapes their work and fuels innovation – from early research to medicines that reach patients.
Prof. Uroš Urleb, PhD, former Executive Director of the Scientific Office of Biologics and Cell & Gene Therapies and now external consultant, reflects on a career that spans academia, drug discovery and biologics development. Looking back, he describes science as a journey driven by challenge and constant change. »One life is not enough, « he says, pointing to the rapid evolution of data-driven science and modeling that is transforming how research and development is done.
The evolving approach to science is part of everyday work for Jure Cerar, PhD, Senior Expert in Science and Technology in TRD. Working in formulation development and computational modeling, he focuses on understanding biologic molecules in depth and predicting their behavior before extensive lab work begins. »The future is now, « he says, highlighting how in-silico methods help scientists make better decisions earlier.
For both podcast guests, progress depends on people working together. Complex challenges require input from many fields – and success comes when expertise connects. »You can have the best software, the best machines, but without the top talents… there is no success, « emphasizes Urleb.
Asked what advice they would give to younger colleagues; both return to the same message: don’t be afraid of challenges. In research, setbacks are part of progress – and often the source of the most valuable learning. As Jure Cerar puts it, »Even if you don’t know how to solve a problem, take it. You’ll figure it out along the way. «
Their conversation highlights what makes science at Novartis distinctive: an environment that values learning, supports new ideas and brings people together to solve complex problems – all with the goal of improving patients’ lives.
Listen to the podcast in the video below:
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