Marija Petrovic, PhD - Project Manager & Scientist

Marija Petrovic, PhD - Project Manager & Scientist (Molecular Biology) at xSeedD Sàrl

Where are you from and what is your educational background? Where did you study?

I am from Serbia, and I have a background in pharmacy, having completed my studies at the University of Belgrade.

Why did you decide to pursue the PhD/Post-doc journey?

I thought getting a PhD would open more doors, but I realized it depends on the field and personal interest. So, I did different internships in life sciences to figure out what I wanted to focus on for the next five years. 

It is often said that the PhD is a marathon, not a sprint race. What are your thoughts about it?

I would say it's a bit of both, also depending on the competitiveness of the field.

When did you decide that you didn’t want to pursue an academic career? Was it before starting your PhD journey or during your PhD studies (at the start, mid, at the end, or after)?

I was aware of this before pursuing the PhD. That was one of the reasons I picked a PhD in biopharmacy and pharmaceutical technology, as I mentioned I had tried different internships in life sciences earlier.

When did you transition into industry?

During my final year of my PhD, I attended an Innosuisse business concept course in Geneva, where I led a group focusing on the nanomedical characterization idea I had developed during my research. Our project received the prize for the best life science venture project. Subsequently, an Innosuisse representative approached me, suggesting a role as a project manager for an R&D proof-of-concept study at the Hospital of Geneva (HUG). Initially, it was part-time (20%) during the remaining six months of my PhD, and later increased to 80% after completing my PhD, so the transition was very subtle and natural. Unfortunately, it was a limited contract for 18 months for all team members, but it proved to be a valuable experience, contributing significantly to my growth and knowledge.

What is your current position? What were your previous job(s) (if this is not your first job in private)?

As of March this year, I have been employed as a Project Manager & Scientist at a small biotech company specializing in drug discovery.

Is your job related to what you have done during your PhD/Post-doc?

Currently, it involves molecular biology and the field of drug discovery, which is quite different from the focus of my PhD research.

Which aspects do you like the most about your job?

I enjoy the learning process, despite the short duration of the assignment. I am always curious and eager to acquire new knowledge! Additionally, I appreciated the chance to contribute to the company's marketing efforts, like my previous role at BSNL, during the time, Laurence, the initiator of this website, was president.

How has your work-life balance changed since moving to industry?

Initially, the focus tends to lean more towards work. However, over time I always aimed to use my productivity efficiently. I don't believe that only working hard over time brings out your best. Healthy breaks with reflection and personal fulfillment contribute to knowledge sinking in and performing well. So, in short, it evolves, but I have always strived for a good work-life balance.

How did you adapt to the cultural and operational differences between academia and industry?

In my opinion, the major difference between academia and industry is the time factor. In the industry, especially in a small company/start-up like the one I worked for, there's considerably less time provided for learning and training.

Were there any new skills or knowledge areas you had to develop for your role in the industry?

In my current job in molecular biology, I'm dealing with completely new stuff outside my usual field. So, I had to learn a bunch of new things in a short time. Sure, being a pharmacist gave me a basic grasp of molecular biology, but diving deep happened on the fly.

How difficult was it to gain the required knowledge when you first started your job(s)?

For my initial job, serving as the bridge between academia and industry, the transition was relatively smooth. It involved the same field with some adjustments, allowing me to build upon an existing foundation. In contrast, the second job, involving a complete shift in the area, demanded more time and commitment—it's like wrapping up a bachelor's degree in a few months! Nevertheless, both experiences teach you a lot about yourself—your preferences, dislikes—and ultimately guide you toward your next, potentially final, destination.

What was your experience concerning the transition into industry? What were some of the challenges you faced during your transition?

Many companies perceive PhDs as having zero years of industry experience. Consequently, there are not many entry-level positions available in Switzerland, and if they do exist, my non-EU citizenship posed a challenge, requiring a demonstration that there were no suitable EU/Swiss candidates for those specific roles.

What helped you before the transition (career events, workshops, contacting people on LinkedIn, friends)?

I got my first job through the Innosuisse business concept and my role in organizing Faces of Industrial Research in Lausanne for three years. I was the program and marketing manager, focusing on connecting R&D from academia to industry. I recommend everyone to attend this conference, now organized by my former Master's students.

According to you, which are the personal/soft skills that are mostly needed to undergo a successful transition into industry?

It varies based on the field and the company's situation. In some cases, having strong soft skills is sufficient. However, for highly technical positions, especially those involving lab work, a well-established foundation is necessary. Therefore, it is important to pick the right field before starting your PhD journey.

In your case, which personal/soft skills helped you during your transition into industry?

I believe my enthusiasm, optimistic point of view, and constant desire to learn something new were the most helpful factors for me.

What advice made the difference in your professional development?

Even though I've learned from different experiences and received advice from many smart people, what my parents told me has consistently stuck with me and made the biggest impact on my professional development. My dad's advice has been a constant in my life: never give up, there's always a solution to every problem, and challenges may not be as tough as they seem. Besides saying it, he showed it to me by his own experience. Thanks to my mom, I've always maintained a positive attitude.

What aspects of your academic studies helped you during your transition into industry (PowerPoint presentation, public speaking, teaching, scientific project management, teamwork, multitasking, etc)?

I think each factor played a role. Multitasking keeps things dynamic and fueled my constant desire to learn, helping me stay updated with the latest happenings in and out of the field. I appreciate dynamic environments and involvement in various organizations, both during my PhD and work, as it facilitates networking, a crucial factor for transitioning to industry, or a novel role. Teamwork and collaborations have been essential in understanding different fields, while leading projects has taught me about time management and organizing work, which is important for respecting deadlines and milestones for any project.

It is also said that networking plays an important role in transitioning into industry. Was it the case for you?

Definitely! Maybe even one of the most important factors.

Which advice would you give to PhDs and postdocs who are willing to look for opportunities outside research academia or in the industry?

Soft skills are crucial: build a network, be actively involved in organizations. For hard skills, focus on acquiring expertise that sets you apart and is a rare asset in the industry.

If you could go back, would you change anything about your career path?

No.

What can I wish you for the coming years?

To do what I love and love what I do.

Marija’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marijapetttrovic/