An Interactive Workshop

Innovation in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries is built on discovery. Often, we focus on the finished products and success stories, but every breakthrough is shaped by challenges along the way. From unexpected experimental results to unsuccessful clinical trials and shifts in funding priorities, setbacks are an inevitable part of developing new therapies. The ability to learn from these experiences, adapt, and move forward is a hallmark of successful scientists and leaders.

This interactive workshop will explore how scientists at pharmaceutical and biotechnology organizations transform setbacks into opportunities for growth. Through real-world case studies, engaging presentations, and facilitated discussions, participants will examine the factors that contribute to project setbacks and distinguish productive failures from preventable ones. Participants will also learn practical approaches for conducting root-cause analyses, strengthening resilience, and making more informed decisions. The program concludes with a networking reception, providing attendees the opportunity to connect with industry and biotechnology professionals, expand their networks, and continue the conversations.

Why Attend?

Whether you are considering a career in industry, preparing to make a transition from academia, or just interested in learning more about scientific resilience, this workshop will help you develop a realistic understanding of how innovation works and why setbacks are often catalysts for future success. You will:

• Gain insider perspectives from pharmaceutical and biotechnology professionals who have navigated project setbacks and related challenges.
• Learn how industry evaluates setbacks differently from academia and why “pivoting productively” is critical to advancing innovation.
• Explore real-world case studies that reveal how teams identify root causes, adapt strategies, and move promising ideas forward.
• Discover practical tools for analyzing setbacks, building resilience, and making informed decisions in fast-paced, high-risk research environments.
• Expand your professional network during a dedicated reception with industry scientists, leaders, and other attendees.

Leave with practical strategies, a new perspective on navigating challenges, and a stronger understanding of the skills and mindset that drive innovation in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.

Speakers

Pam Hornby, PhD

Adjunct Professor of Physiology & Pharmacology

Drexel University College Medicine

Dr. Hornby’s career is dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic diseases originating in the gut.   Her research at LSU Medical Center in New Orleans helped advance the emerging field of brain-gut communication, which is now widely recognized.  This led to her joining Johnson & Johnson (currently J&J Innovative Medicine) where her team discovered and contributed to the characterization of a gut-restricted therapeutic small molecule. This was launched in 2016 as Viberzi® for the treatment of patients with diarrhea-predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Subsequently she led entrepreneurial research, such as exploring the feasibility of oral delivery for therapeutic Monoclonal Antibodies. More recently, she identified key metabolites produced by gut bacteria that are altered in patients with obesity - reinforcing the role of gut and microbiome health in overall wellness.

While this research was deeply rewarding, she left R&D to start Giv- Gastrointestinal Vitality, which can help clients make positive changes using Lifestyle Medicine. Her sustained publication record of ~100 senior-authored publications and ASPET leadership demonstrate the breadth of her contributions to pharmacology. She serves on Industry Advisory Boards and contributes to the educational mission at Drexel University College of Medicine as Adjunct Professor in the Dept. of Physiology and Pharmacology.

Julie Lade, PhD

Scientific Director

Amgen

Julie Lade is a Scientific Director at Amgen in Research and Development within the department of Pharmacokinetics, Drug Metabolism & Bioanalytical. Julie obtained her PhD in Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine with a key focus on anti-HIV drug metabolism and thereafter joined Amgen in 2016. Julie has extensive experience in drug discovery and development across an array of therapeutic modalities, such as small molecules, biologics, and oligonucleotides, for the treatment of cardiometabolic disorders and obesity indications.

Vrushank Bhatt, PhD

Senior Scientist

Bristol Myers Squibb Company

Vrushank Bhatt serves as Senior Scientist at the Bristol Myers Squibb Company. In his role, he works with contract research organizations for ADME and toxicology studies. He obtained his PhD in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics from Rutgers University, specializing in cancer biology. With ASPET, he has served as a member of the Young Scientists Committee and the Industry Science Committee. He is committed to mentoring other scientists and to advocating for the pharmacology community.

Additional speakers will be listed as they are confirmed.